Letters & Opinion
Shopping smart on a budget
The Pointer
rking163@uwsp.edu
Shopping smart on a budget is not as hard as one might think, and it gets even easier when you know what you need in your closet. Hopefully you did not get measured before Thanksgiving dinner. If you did, wait until you can button the pants you’re wearing and then head out shopping.
Before we tackle the last four dress codes, you need to get the job first. So let’s get you set for your interview. Before you leave your apartment, you need to ask yourself these five questions: 1) Is what I’m wearing clean? 2) Is it in good shape? 3) Does this fit me correctly? 4) Does it match? 5) Do I feel comfortable? All of these need to be followed by a “yes” every time you leave your apartment.
Pre-interview research: Here is where those research skills you learned in your writing emphasis class will help you in more ways than one. The best way to prepare for the question that might be asked of you is to search the company’s Web site. So it stands to reason that the best way to learn about a company’s dress code is to either ask or scope out the company and if all else fails, just wear a suit. By wearing a suit it is not likely that the interviewer will tell you that you are over-dressed. Well, that is, unless you are interviewing to be a ditch digger.
Your clothes tell your story: What you wear to an interview does not have to be flashy or be a name brand. It is better that the interviewer hardly notices what you’re wearing after he or she sizes you up for the first time. Remember first impressions are important, but you are not there to sell them on your wardrobe. You are there to get the job.
The suit: A single-breasted, dark navy blue, charcoal gray or neutral color (wool or wool blend, solid or with thin pinstripes) suit is suitable for most, if not all, business occasions. The hem of the pant should break at the top of the shoes and the jacket sleeve should end at the joint between the wrist and hand.
The shirt: A well-ironed, all cotton, white, light or dark blue shirt with a button-down collar is the best choice to wear with your suit. The shirt does not have to be a solid color, but remember it must match the suit and not be overwhelming. The shirt cuff should extend a quarter to half inch below the jacket sleeve.
The tie: A silk tie with a simple stripe or repeating pattern works best. Again, you don’t want it to be too busy or flashy. The background color should be neutral in color so it will not clash with the color of your suit and/or shirt. Most importantly, the end of the tie should fall to the middle of the belt buckle.
The shoes: They don’t need to be new, however ground-down-at-the-heels and cracking leather do not work for any interview or any business setting. My suggestion to you is a pair of polished “wingtips” in the appropriate color (black or brown); they send a more polished signal. Oh! While I’m on footwear, do not (let me repeat that) DO NOT, wear white socks, or those cute little black ankle socks, with dress shoes. Ok! I need to go one step further with that; dress socks (a.k.a. trouser socks) should not sag around your ankles. Socks should match your pants and shoes and be long enough to cover your shins.
Body piercings: No one wants to stifle your individuality or make you conform to their beliefs. However, if you wear an earring, or any other visible body piercing, it is recommended that you remove them for any professional event you may be attending. Remember, this is just a suggestion. I rarely go anywhere without my diamond earrings. But, it is always safer to err on the conservative side.
Hair, etc.: If your mother has mentioned your need for a haircut, heed her warning. A haircut and a clean shave are best. However, if you have a beard/mustache/goatee, you will want to have it neatly trimmed. Oh! If you choose to wear cologne or aftershave, wear it sparingly as not to produce too strong of a scent.
The accessories: It is a good idea to purchase a leather portfolio that includes a pad of paper (for writing down your questions and notes), a folder that can hold copies of your resume (always take extras), reference page and a pen. Leave your backpack in the car.
In closing, you want to wear the best that you can afford on a new graduate’s budget and still be well-dressed, while showcasing your attention to detail and eye for good fashion. A winning personality and knowledge of the company will get you the job.
Next week we’ll tackle the four dress codes for your new career.
