Dress for Success

The definitions of business professional, business casual, smart casual, and casual vary between organizations and industries. However, each have a common theme and degree of expectation.

 

In all potentially professional situations, ALWAYS AVOID:

  • Ripped jeans/pants, hoodie/sweatshirt, shirt that shows your stomach, see-through clothing, flip flops, shorts, and a ball cap/beanie.

 

Business Professional Tips:

  • Wear a dark-colored conservative suit, generally in black, brown, navy, or gray.
  • Solid colors or subtle patterns (e.g. pinstripes) look best.
  • Pair your suit with a complementary conservative, long-sleeved collared shirt or blouse, belt, and shoes.
  • Make sure your socks, shoes, and belt match your suit.
  • Avoid jewelry except for possibly a watch and a wedding or fraternity ring.
  • Make sure your hair and face are clean cut and any makeup is minimal.

 

It’s best to over-dress for an interview, networking event, or job fair rather than wear a casual outfit.