Interview Outfits For Women Over 50: How to Choose The Perfect Attire

Career Kuel Thought Leader: Gayle Petrillo

What do I wear to my interview(s)? There has been a lot of attention paid to dressing for an interview. It has long been appropriate practice to dress for success for an interview. What does that mean? For guys, it’s pretty standard and is comprised of either a suit (slacks and jacket with optional vest), or dress slacks, sports jacket, collared dress shirt, tie, belt and dress shoes (not sneakers).

For women, it’s a bit more complicated, as we typically have a wider-ranger of options.

A suit is always appropriate, whether the suit includes slacks or a skirt with matching jacket. A button-down blouse and low heels (closed or open toes are acceptable except in the healthcare arena).

“For women, it’s a bit more complicated, as we typically have a wider-ranger of options.”

Other options for women include a skirt (to or below knee or ankle length) or full-length dress slacks (not leggings, shorts or capris) accompanied by either a dressy pull-on or button-down blouse or sweater, shrug or jacket. A dress may also be worn with a sweater, shrug or jacket as well. 

Less Is More:

Sleeves are always preferable to sleeveless and shorts and t-shirts are never an acceptable option, despite what you may see on YouTube and other social media outlets. The one exception to this comment is in warmer climates, a short-sleeve t-shirt may be worn under a jacket, but only one without any logo nor low neckline.

And one more reminder, less is more, especially when thinking about makeup and accessories. Simple, straight-forward light eye shadow and/or liner, a bit of mascara and lipstick (preferably not red) will work well. 

As for jewelry, a ring or two; earrings that don’t draw attention to themselves and don’t dangle too long, and a simple necklace. If you prefer a chunky necklace, forego the earrings. 

It’s better to under wow than make an impression like the Hollywood stars and influencers you see online. They are in the business of attracting people to their personal parts. As a prospective employee, your job is to ‘sell yourself’ based on your knowledge, education, experiences and expertise rather than your body parts.

“It’s better to under wow than make an impression like the Hollywood stars and influencers you see online.”

First Opportunity To Make An Impression:

It’s important to remember an interview is likely the first opportunity as a prospective employee to make a first impression. Subsequent interviewing should follow the same practice as above.

Follow-up interviews allow you the opportunity to make a further impression. Or, you may find yourself interviewing with additional people with whom you will want to make your first impression count. You want to ensure you have more opportunities to show your value in these follow up interviews, so it behooves you to dress appropriately.

Sure ‘appropriate’ is a perspective that may differ; however, it’s best to dress up rather than dress down. The same goes for your first day on the job. Wait to see how your colleagues dress to determine the appropriateness of your closet items.

Grab The Attention:

And, if in doubt, you can always ask your human resources manager or a trusted manager. It is not only your reputation on the line, but that of those you are working with. Once you start, particularly if you are in an outside sales position or one in which you represent your company to others, it is important to understand the dress code.

One way to view the appropriateness of an outfit is to gage what position you eventually want to hold and dress as you see those in those positions. You will intentionally grab the attention of those you want, and in a positive way.

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