Dressing the part...

One of my favorite shows for a long time was TLC's "What Not to Wear" and I'd like to share a quote from Stacy and Clinton that I feel is very relevant to college students at the stage of looking for a career and that is, "Dress for the job you want". With so many business society meetings, interviews, pre-interview dinners, company information sessions and visits that Villanova offers, it is always quite the conundrum to figure out what is appropriate to wear for these types of occasions and events.

I always say it is better to be dressed up than dressed down because you never know when you will want to talk to that executive after a speech they gave or if you are taken to a fancier restaurant than expected. Here are a few suggestions for some typical events that business students would take part in.

A Marketing Society event with a speaker from a company you are interested in: khaki's or dress pants and a button down shirt, or if you're like me and interested in working more for a fashion brand then it's important to look the part and add some style to your outfit by adding accessories and something that shows your personality a bit more while still looking professional and polished. The reason I think that it is important to consider what you wear to these kinds of events is because there are opportunities to do great networking at them and first impressions especially count when seeking a job or internship. Some of my favorite stores to stop for business appropriate but still stylish and youthful outfits are J. Crew, Banana Republic, and Ann Taylor.

Another event you may take part in is a dinner with a company you desire to work for. These are usually the night before they are interviewing candidates and allows them to get to know you in a more relaxed setting. Since it would be in the evening, you're allowed to get a little more dressed up and veer away from the typical suit outfit. I suggest a pencil skirt with a dressier top or a sweater with a necklace. The outfit to the right from Ann Taylor is a good example but throw a cardigan over it because sleeveless is not appropriate for these types of things!

Next is the all-important interview and the outfit choice for these big days is always a suit! It should make you feel good and fit well so that you are confident and prepared to shine from the moment you put it on. A safe choice for a shirt is always a light colored button down so that it's your personality and words that do the talking, not an inappropriate leopard satin shirt. As far as shoes, a good quality black pump is the best option and allows you to stride into the room standing tall and elegant.

Once you land that great internship or job, play it safe the first day with a basic shift dress and heels, or dress pants and a nice top and the best way to know what to wear every day is to observe the office culture and to ask Human Resources! It is their job to help you with these kinds of things and you want to always look like you belong there and can interact with people there at any executive level.

While what you wear for these kinds of things may not seem to be the most important, I always say that what you are wearing can boost your confidence and help overall in how you portray yourself each day. So keep in mind these simple tips and feel free to ask me any questions and you can always go to the Clay Center for any doubts on what to wear for any job related activity!