Judy writes:
I just read your article on “Dress for Success”.
I am short and heavy. I do not look good in women’s 2-piece suits, as they cut into a straight line I wish to project and my bust is large and hard to hide. Is it appropriate to wear a nice one-piece dress for interviews?
I also don’t wear high heels much because they kill my feet. Is this essential for a good interview?
The Career Doctor responds:
The most critical part of dressing for success in job interviews is to match the professional culture of the employer where you are interviewing — and of the job you are seeking.
In certain situations, a dress would be appropriate for an interview. However, for many other situations, a dress would be seen as too casual. If you’re not sure, call the human resources office of the company where you are interviewing and ask about it. Adding a jacket to wear over the dress would ratchet up the professionalism. You could perhaps wear it open to deal with the bust issues.
And while I hear horror stories from my female students and clients about the fashion industry, surely there is a department store or specialty women’s store located somewhere near you that can help you find a suit that best fits your body shape — and best projects the professional statement that you want to make.
Other “dress for success” tips. Make sure you have:
- clean and polished conservative dress shoes
- well-groomed hairstyle
- cleaned and trimmed fingernails
- minimal cologne or perfume
- no visible body piercing beyond conservative ear piercings for women
- well-brushed teeth and fresh breath
- no gum, candy, or other objects in your mouth
- minimal jewelry
- no body odor
