Women's Interview Attire #4

[thisischelsea]

Hi everyone! Thanks for the input. I realized once when I reread that I wrote "black tights" and I'm face-palming big time. I'll be borrowing a nice black purse from a friend

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[travelermed13]

Okay this might be a dumb question but...if I'm doing my hair in a half up style is it alright to tie it back with a hair tie instead of using bobby pins? I used bobby pins for my last interview and it stayed pulled back, but the pins loosened throughout the day, which was super annoying. I know I might be way overthinking this, but I also think that hair ties can look sloppy or sporty.

 

[gyngyn]

Hey everyone! I have some questions about my outfit for my upcoming interview. I'm planning to wear a black blazer (simple), a black blouse (see below), a black skirt with black tights underneath, and black pumps. Is this too much black?

I'm planning to bring a bright blue purse so I was hoping wearing all black would make the purse look less crazy/loud...haha

A suit is required.

 

[gizmoo]

Okay this might be a dumb question but...if I'm doing my hair in a half up style is it alright to tie it back with a hair tie instead of using bobby pins? I used bobby pins for my last interview and it stayed pulled back, but the pins loosened throughout the day, which was super annoying. I know I might be way overthinking this, but I also think that hair ties can look sloppy or sporty.

Haha I think you are overthinking it. Just don't wear a neon scrunchie and you'll be fine.

 

[tessellations]

Okay this might be a dumb question but...if I'm doing my hair in a half up style is it alright to tie it back with a hair tie instead of using bobby pins? I used bobby pins for my last interview and it stayed pulled back, but the pins loosened throughout the day, which was super annoying. I know I might be way overthinking this, but I also think that hair ties can look sloppy or sporty.

If you're really worried about a hair tie you can buy a pack of clear plastic hair ties. They aren't as obvious as your traditional black/brown hair tie.

 

[gizmoo]

So just out of pure curiosity, how much are we "dinged" when we show up to interviews without a proper suit on? So far I've seen a fellow interviewee dressed in a loud floral pattern dress with a casual/fashion blazer, someone else with a hot pink top with ruffles with a skirt hitting the middle of her thigh, and a handful of interviewees in formal-wear with mismatching blazers and bottoms. Most of them seemed very confident in what they were wearing, and they seemed like very intelligent and friendly people from our conversations.

Is this fashion faux-pas something that automatically lands one in the wait-list/rejection pile, or something that doesn't really affect one's application? To some degree, isn't it a good thing to wear something slightly different to be memorable?

I'm honestly not sure how an admissions officer would view those outfits, but in my opinion, it would be best to be memorable based on having a good interview rather than a distracting outfit.

 

[Pixiwoman]

Hi all, the last interview clothing thread was created in 2011 and reached almost 5,000 messages. I thought it would be nice to create a new one and to have the first post include some common knowledge as gleaned from the previous threads. Special thanks to @DokterMom, @gyngyn, and @Winged Scapula, the experts who have been active on these threads helping us all out. When I say wisdom and knowledge, I mean their wisdom and knowledge. Yes, this is probably more information than most people will need. Yes, there are probably exceptions to every point. Yes, some commenters have had success in outfits that do not adhere to this. Yes, your interviewer might not care. However, based on the questions asked in previous threads, it seemed like a good idea to have some guidelines for reference. If you want to ask about a specific example or see if there is an exception, post!


Women’s Interview Clothing Advice and Wisdom:

General Information:

• Your interview suit is your interview suit. You are not going to be looking for something that you can mix and match with other items for a night out. It should not be versatile. It should be your interview suit. If your style tends to be on the conservative side, maybe you will find yourself wearing the suit or parts of the suit on professional dress days. If you don’t pull it out of your closet until residency interviews, that’s ok, that is exactly what this suit is for.
• Fashion is not important, professionalism is important. Avoid trendy cuts. Go for conservative, classic items.
• Your objective is to look capable, professional, responsible, mature -- in short, like someone with good judgement (1).
• Looking good, hot, sexy, pretty, attractive -- this is not what you're aiming for. If you happen to also look attractive, that's a bonus, but don't make the mistake of looking 'good' over looking ‘appropriate' (1).
• As your guide, look at female politicians: Elizabeth Warren, Hillary Clinton, Sarah Palin (when she was running for VP, not now), Nancy Pelosi, Carly Fiorino. Do not use political wives (too feminine), or TV show lawyers or anchor women (too sexy) (1).
• You do not want to “stand out” with respect to your clothing. You as a person should stand out against a plain suit. Your interview suit is not an opportunity to “show your personality”.
• Avoid large brand logos. Coach, Louis Vuitton, and Tory Burch are notorious for this. These brands are fine, but when choosing a bag or a shoe, do not choose items with obvious, large, logos.

The suit:

• The suit should be a medium to dark solid color or woven pattern - so no pastels, no neon, no floral (1). Navy, dark grey, charcoal or black are preferred. Avoid lighter greys and blues, as suits in these colors will read too casual for this occasion.
• The fabric of the suit should be matte. A “sheen” to the fabric is ok, but a shine is not. A shiny fabric would make you look like you were going to a prom or a wedding.
  • Matte:
  • Sheen:
  • Shiny:
• Wool, wool blend is best. Nothing shiny (4).
• Avoid decorative piping and suits with multiple colors. You should be going for the standard notch lapel as depicted here.
• A pant suit, skirt suit, or a dress suit are all fine. In each case, the suit jacket and the suit bottom should be the same color and material. The suit should skim your body, not hug it.
  • If you go with a pant suit, avoid skinny cuts and crop cuts. Straight leg or a slightly flared leg is preferred. The pants should not hug your hips or outline your butt. If the fabric is pulling at the sides, or meeting at your crotch in a star-shaped pattern the pants are too tight.
    • For length, not dragging the ground or forcing you into shoes you're uncomfortable with, but also not ankle-length (1).
    • No flare leg, wide leg, cigarette leg, slim cut, "skinny". The width at the ankle should be the same width as the thigh opening or slightly wider, this is known as a boot cut (4).
    • I should not see the outline of your legs(4).
  • If you go with a skirt suit, the skirt should hit slightly slow to very-slightly above the knee, but not very much in either direction (1). You should try sitting in the suit before you buy it. If it feels too tight when you sit, size up. If the skirt rides up so that your thigh is exposed, the skirt is too short or too tight or both. If it’s too short, finding a different suit is probably your best bet, however, many skirts do have a hem that could be let down by a tailor in more dire circumstances. If it is too tight, size up or look for a different suit. The cut of the skirt should not hug your entire leg, it should fall down in a straight line. For this reason, I would avoid skirts that taper or become tight at the knee.
    • Skirt in a straight cut:
    • Skirt that tapers at the knee and would be too snug of a fit for this occasion: http://imgur.com/a/AWUxi
  • If you go with a sheath dress suit, follow the same rules regarding skirt length for dresses. The fabric of the dress and jacket should be the same color and fabric.
    • Appropriate example: http://imgur.com/a/1l1x5
    • A conservative dress-suit (matching set) can be an absolutely fabulous look that also hides figure flaws. Dress-suits are also great for drawing attention away from 'too fabulous' figures without looking dowdy (1).
  • Tailoring - If your suit doesn't fit perfectly off the rack, get it tailored! Taking suits in is much easier than letting them out, so get at-least-enough fabric in the waist, seat and bust and a good fit in the shoulders. The rest can be altered (1).

The shirt:

• A blouse, an button-up, or a shell is appropriate.
• The shirt should be a solid color. Avoid prints. Bold patterns, animal prints and florals are generally wrong for an interview shirt or blouse, as are ruffles, lace and sheer areas. Pastels and jewel tones are fine for blouses. Bright colors can sometimes work, but there is such a thing as too bright (1).
• If you choose a striped button-up, the stripes should be very thin and vertical. Think pin-stripe as opposed to jailhouse stripe.
• The shirt should be opaque. It should not be sheer or see-through in any lighting.
• No cleavage should be visible in the shirt you choose. No cleavage! No peep holes and no visible bra straps (1). Additionally, make sure that the shirt looks appropriate when you take your jacket off in the event that you may need to. You should not see any side-boob.
• Pin-tucks and pleats are OK; rhinestones, studs, sequins and beading are not appropriate (1).

The shoes:

• A low, chunky, heel is preferred but flats are acceptable. If you choose flats, they should not be ballet flats. The safest shoe is a medium-low heel closed-toe pump in a dark or neutral color (1).
• Make sure you can walk comfortably in the shoes you choose (1).
• Aim for a heel height less than or equal to about 3 inches.
• Matte leather is preferred. Avoid suede. Avoid patent leather. Suede and patent leather are generally too casual for the occasion. Additionally, suede shows dirt, stains, and scuffs easily. If someone spills coffee or even water on your suede shoes, they are ruined.
• Shoe color depends on your suit color, however, black is generally a safe bet. Cordovan works with a navy suit. Avoid nude, tan, and lighter colors.
• A stacked wood heel is too casual.
• Wedges tend to skew casual, as do toe-cap details.
• A minimal, simple, look is best. Some discrete or simple embellishment are acceptable, however, avoid large and flashy embellishment.
• Flats are OK if they're not too casual and you're either tall or are wearing pants. Most flats are way too casual (1).
• Sexy stilettos and high platforms are inappropriate for all women (1).
• Avoid ankle straps and mary-jane style shoes.

The bag:

• If you don't normally carry a bag, don't feel you have to carry one now (1).
• Something plain and streamlined with minimal decorative hardware and no ruffles or bling in a dark or neutral color (1).
• Popular designer logos may suggest you're a spoiled 'material girl' with entitlement issues - even if the bags are fake. Subtle logos (Kate Spade) are fine; it's the BIG flashy ones (some Coach, LV) that are problematic (1).
• Canvas totes are perfectly acceptable, so don't spend a lot for a bag you may not use much (1).
• Backpacks say you're a college student, not a grown up (1).
• Don't bring something so large it could double as a beach bag. It's untidy and suggests either that you're high-maintenance or have trouble prioritizing (she needs all that for a four-hour day?)(1).

• Things you may want to include in bag on interview day:
  • Mini disposable toothbrushes, preloaded with dry toothpaste, with tooth picks on their back end
  • A hair comb
  • Bobby pins
  • Clear nail polish in case of a nylon run
  • Small Moleskine style notebook
  • A tampon
  • A little pill case containing benadryl, tylenol, and ibuprofen, I always have this with me “just in case”
  • Kleenex
  • A pen
  • Phone/wallet/keys
  • A water bottle
  • A protein bar
  • A tide pen
  • Gum or mints
  • Moleskins or band aids
  • Lipstick
  • Oil blotting sheets

The hair:

• Something simple and no-fuss. You want to look like you won't have to adjust your hair in the middle of the day, so a ponytail or bun is fine as is a part-up. Long curly hair should be restrained somewhat, and your eyes should be clearly visible. Short to medium styles that stay put may not require any special handling (1).
• Hair colors not found in nature would be a mistake, as would hair colors not natural to someone of your race (1).
• Up? Down? or In-between? All can work. If you opt for up, something in between the super-tight "librarian bun" and the trendy "messy bun" is where you want to be. Something tidy and pulled together. Half-up, with the top and front pulled back is generally both safe and appropriate (1).
• Ultimately, choose a style that you will not be tempted to touch. Something that you can do in the morning and be assured that it will still look nice and neat hours later.

The makeup and grooming:

• A little bit of makeup makes you look grown up and fully dressed. Zero makeup can make you look too young or under-dressed; however too much makeup is much worse (1).
• For nail polish, go with a nude, muted pink, or clear. Avoid bright, wild, dark, and more noticeable colors. These colors can either look less professional or they will be more noticeable and look less “polished” when they chip.
• Your nails should be neat or trimmed. Avoid fake nails, the almond and claw shaped nails that are currently trending, and exceptionally long nails.
• Makeup should be neutral and should be utilized to enhance your features. You should not be “adding” anything to your face, if that makes sense. A long, thick, noticeable cat-eye would be “adding”, as would a red lip. You want to look awake and fresh.
• I think this is a good example of interview makeup. Her lips have been evened out and brightened with a neutral pink “my lips but better” lip color. Blemishes and dark circles have been concealed with foundation and concealer. Her lash line has been “tight-lined” with eyeliner, meaning that she has just defined her lash line without the appearance of a visible line of eyeliner. She used a bit of mascara to define her lashes and eyes. Her brows have been brushed and lightly filled. She has used blush and a subtle highlight on her cheekbones to give her face a fresh and glow-y look. It looks like she also used some eyeshadow to give her eyes some extra depth and dimension. http://imgur.com/a/XHp2h
  • Is all of this necessary? No! Do what works for you. I personally do not know how to use eyeshadow, so I did everything listed above, but without eyeshadow. If you don’t use foundation, then don’t use foundation, etc. I just thought that this was a good example of using makeup to enhance your features and to show an appropriate, polished, makeup look.
• Use products that work for your coloring, your skin tone, and your skin type. For example, don’t feel pressured to wear lipstick if it makes your lips dry out or settles into fine lines or if you just don’t feel comfortable with it. You can use a tinted balm instead.
• Try all of the products you want to use on your interview day well before the interview. I used makeup that I use every day. If you are new to makeup, you make need to try out multiple products before you find one that works for you. You may need to try out a few lip colors or blushes or foundations or concealers to see which look right with your skin tone, you may need to try out a few mascaras to find one that doesn’t clump or leave smudges on your eyelids, etc.

The jewelry:

• Simple, classic jewelry is fine but not necessary: Gold, pearls, wedding and/or engagement rings (1). A pearl necklace is considered classic.
• Avoid jewelry that is overly large, showy, fashionable, casual or girlish. The one exception to the 'showy' rule could be an interesting brooch on an otherwise plain suit (1).
• Necklaces should not draw the eye to your bustline (1).
• Earrings come in pairs. Wear two and only two (1).
• You do not need a watch, but if you wear one, it should be simple in styling and dressy (1).
• Silver is OK if it's better for your skin tone, but use the 'Would this particular piece look good in gold?' test to make sure it's not too casual. Many (most?) silver pieces are just too casual (1).
• No religious or political symbols (4).
• No dangly earrings (4).

The hose:

• Wear nude hose. This is another “you may need to try a few pairs to get the right color” situation.
• If you have darker skin, look into the brand “Nubian Skin” for your hose, I know it can be purchased from multiple retailers including Nordstrom. There are other brands that make nude hose for women with darker skin, that is just the first one that comes to mind.
• Black, navy, and white hose are too casual for this occasion.
• You can wear thigh high hose or hose that starts at the waist. Just make sure it fits well and won’t fall down.

Exceptions:

Cold weather:

• Boots are not appropriate; but dressy ankle boots with a pantsuit in [cold] winter are probably OK (1). I have also seen that it seems to be acceptable to bring a change of shoes for the tour vs. interview portion if the tour is occurring outside in snowy weather.
• Coats - If it's winter in a cold climate, you'll need a nice coat. The most classic is a black or camel color in a wool-like (wool/cashmere/camel/alpaca) fiber that hits somewhere below the knee. A trench coat (with or w/o liner) is also perfectly acceptable. Ski jackets, puffers and faux fur are not professional (1).

Injury:

• Just do the best you can. Injury will be accommodated. It would be natural to mention it in passing (3).
• If your foot still can't fit comfortably into a good-looking normal shoe, rock the medical boot! Then wear a simple black flat on the other foot. Mention your injury in passing and get a free pass on footwear. You kind of need the boot to give it credibility (1).

Rain:

This is a great, professional looking rain coat. I'm in AZ and we have a crazy monsoon season. I soon realized I would need a rain jacket based on an experience where I looked like I was dipped in the pool without one. I got it in black and it keeps me 100% dry even in torrential, diagonal rain. They have free 3-5 day delivery with a purchase over $50, and it's $66. If you sign up for their e-mails, as a first time customer you get 20% off, making it ~$52. I feel like it's a good investment, especially if you are going to live somewhere that experiences frequent rain. They also have a cotton one with the same water repellent coating for $116 or $92 with this first time customer code.

If you aren't sold, here is the cotton one out-performing similar coats.


Where to buy?

• Nordstrom, Ann Taylor, Brooks Brothers, Banana Republic, J. Crew, the Limited, Tahari, Talbots.
  • Nordstrom Rack was a decent place for shoes back when I was looking.
  • DSW may also have appropriate shoe choices.
• If you know what you are doing, TJ Maxx, Marshalls, or Steinmart may have appropriate options (1).
• Mid-tier department stores like Macy’s are hit or miss.
• If you are petite, you may have some luck at H&M as well as the petite departments of Nordstrom, J Crew, Banana Republic, and Ann Taylor.
• Tahari and Ann Taylor carry plus sizes.
• If you are tall, Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, The Limited, and J. Crew sell tall sizes online.
• Nordstrom offers tailoring for customers.

Citations

[1] DokterMom. (2014). http://forums.studentdoctor.net/threads/womens-interview-clothing.1082451/#post-15408624

[2] DokterMom. Miscellaneous posts on older threads.

[3] gyngyn. Miscellaneous posts on older threads.

[4] Winged Scapula. Miscellaneous posts on older threads.


This previous thread has some especially helpful information: http://forums.studentdoctor.net/threads/womens-interview-clothing.1082451

• DokterMom has a great post on page 1
• Winged Scapula has a great post with links to examples on page 11

I have done my best to mine previous threads for gems and information, major contributions are cited above. If there are any discrepancies or additions, please let me know and I will update this post periodically.

Very nice, thanks for sharing !

 

[DokterMom]

So just out of pure curiosity, how much are we "dinged" when we show up to interviews without a proper suit on? So far I've seen a fellow interviewee dressed in a loud floral pattern dress with a casual/fashion blazer, someone else with a hot pink top with ruffles with a skirt hitting the middle of her thigh, and a handful of interviewees in formal-wear with mismatching blazers and bottoms. Most of them seemed very confident in what they were wearing, and they seemed like very intelligent and friendly people from our conversations.

Is this fashion faux-pas something that automatically lands one in the wait-list/rejection pile, or something that doesn't really affect one's application? To some degree, isn't it a good thing to wear something slightly different to be memorable?

It says the applicant doesn't know how to dress and did not do the requisite research to find out. Is it a deal-killer? Depends how far off the mark it was. Does it hurt? - Yes.

As for being memorable -- For a really strong applicant, a slightly-different but absolutely appropriate interview outfit can be a plus. (Think a deep-wine colored suit instead of navy or grey.) For an average-stat applicant, it's more likely to be interpreted as "not fitting in" rather than "standout applicant".

 

[kittyyy]

Hi! I'm having some trouble deciding between the following three suits:

http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/...nt Suit&sp=1&spc=12&ruleId=65|BS|BA&slotId=11

http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/...lectedSize=#fn=sp=1&spc=15&ruleId=52&slotId=3

http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/...lectedSize=#fn=sp=1&spc=15&ruleId=52&slotId=4

Not sure if the buttons on the last two are too flashy, which is why I'm leaning toward the first one, but I know black is not necessarily the preferred color. Any feedback would be great -- thanks a lot!

 

[purplefrog13]

I think the first one is more standard/classic, and it's what I would choose. But I think any of them would be fine, as long as you look professional.

 

[Pixiwoman]

Hi! I'm having some trouble deciding between the following three suits:

http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/tahari-asl-petite-one-button-pantsuit?ID=2999753&CategoryID=55610&LinkType=&selectedSize=#fn=SUIT_STYLE=Pant Suit&sp=1&spc=12&ruleId=65|BS|BA&slotId=11

http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/tahari-asl-petite-double-breasted-pantsuit?ID=3179336&CategoryID=76447&selectedSize=#fn=sp=1&spc=15&ruleId=52&slotId=3

http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/tahari-asl-petite-double-breasted-pantsuit?ID=2962368&CategoryID=76447&selectedSize=#fn=sp=1&spc=15&ruleId=52&slotId=4

Not sure if the buttons on the last two are too flashy, which is why I'm leaning toward the first one, but I know black is not necessarily the preferred color. Any feedback would be great -- thanks a lot!

I love number 3, is very classy and elegant!

 

[Noxy]

Hi! I'm having some trouble deciding between the following three suits:

http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/tahari-asl-petite-one-button-pantsuit?ID=2999753&CategoryID=55610&LinkType=&selectedSize=#fn=SUIT_STYLE=Pant Suit&sp=1&spc=12&ruleId=65|BS|BA&slotId=11

http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/tahari-asl-petite-double-breasted-pantsuit?ID=3179336&CategoryID=76447&selectedSize=#fn=sp=1&spc=15&ruleId=52&slotId=3

http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/tahari-asl-petite-double-breasted-pantsuit?ID=2962368&CategoryID=76447&selectedSize=#fn=sp=1&spc=15&ruleId=52&slotId=4

Not sure if the buttons on the last two are too flashy, which is why I'm leaning toward the first one, but I know black is not necessarily the preferred color. Any feedback would be great -- thanks a lot!

I think the first one is the most professional and least flashy if you are worried! I like that one the best!

 

[Karabo]

Hi! I'm having some trouble deciding between the following three suits:

http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/...nt Suit&sp=1&spc=12&ruleId=65|BS|BA&slotId=11

http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/...lectedSize=#fn=sp=1&spc=15&ruleId=52&slotId=3

http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/...lectedSize=#fn=sp=1&spc=15&ruleId=52&slotId=4

Not sure if the buttons on the last two are too flashy, which is why I'm leaning toward the first one, but I know black is not necessarily the preferred color. Any feedback would be great -- thanks a lot!

The first suit is the most professional

Sent from my SM-N900T using SDN mobile

 

[hapa]

Hi everyone!

I need some advice. I have a black suit (sheath dress and blazer). I have black pumps, bag, and pearl studs I was planning to wear, but I'm feeling like it's too much black. Any tips on where I can add some color?

I also have a pine green bag, an oxblood bag, or cordovan heels, but I was not sure if I can make those work since shoes and purse should match


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[WhittyPsyche]

So just out of pure curiosity, how much are we "dinged" when we show up to interviews without a proper suit on? So far I've seen a fellow interviewee dressed in a loud floral pattern dress with a casual/fashion blazer, someone else with a hot pink top with ruffles with a skirt hitting the middle of her thigh, and a handful of interviewees in formal-wear with mismatching blazers and bottoms. Most of them seemed very confident in what they were wearing, and they seemed like very intelligent and friendly people from our conversations.

Is this fashion faux-pas something that automatically lands one in the wait-list/rejection pile, or something that doesn't really affect one's application? To some degree, isn't it a good thing to wear something slightly different to be memorable?

I've also seen a lot of this, flowy floral dresses, cotton casual dresses/skirts, no blazer, Dick's pants and everything else in between. No one seemed to treat them differently as far as the staff and they did seem confident but perhaps in hindsight felt they were underdressed or not appropriately dressed. I've also seen a lot of women wearing 5/6 rings on their fingers lots of bracelets and anklets and ears filled with piercings that all had earrings in them.




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[DokterMom]

Hi everyone!

I need some advice. I have a black suit (sheath dress and blazer). I have black pumps, bag, and pearl studs I was planning to wear, but I'm feeling like it's too much black. Any tips on where I can add some color?

I also have a pine green bag, an oxblood bag, or cordovan heels, but I was not sure if I can make those work since shoes and purse should match


Sent from my iPhone using SDN mobile

You might try a brooch or pin to add some visual interest and break up the black. Or a slightly bolder but still conservative necklace. Nude hose rather than black --

 

[hapa]

You might try a brooch or pin to add some visual interest and break up the black. Or a slightly bolder but still conservative necklace. Nude hose rather than black --

I do have an antique brooch my mom gave me, maybe I'll try that. Thanks for the advice


Sent from my iPhone using SDN mobile

 

[premedwishful]

What would be more appropriate, a pant suit or skirt suit? I'm reading that both are acceptable, but is one preferred over the other?

Having a hard time finding pants that fit great, but don't want to be the only one wearing a skirt suit if this is less common. Thank you!

 

[travelermed13]

What would be more appropriate, a pant suit or skirt suit? I'm reading that both are acceptable, but is one preferred over the other?

Having a hard time finding pants that fit great, but don't want to be the only one wearing a skirt suit if this is less common. Thank you!

I've seen both on my interview days. About 50/50 I'd say. If you go skirt you won't be the only one. Go with whichever fits you better and you're more confident in. I chose skirt suit because it's what fit my body type best and I've had no regrets!
Just make sure if you go skirt that it is long enough (reaches your knees) and isn't mid thigh (I've actually seen this, and it's really unprofessional looking).

 

[premedwishful]

I've seen both on my interview days. About 50/50 I'd say. If you go skirt you won't be the only one. Go with whichever fits you better and you're more confident in. I chose skirt suit because it's what fit my body type best and I've had no regrets!
Just make sure if you go skirt that it is long enough (reaches your knees) and isn't mid thigh (I've actually seen this, and it's really unprofessional looking).

Oh my goodness, a mid-thigh skirt? Yikes. Thank you for this post, knowing it's 50/50 makes me much more confident in getting a skirt suit. I just haven't been able to find a lot of pant options. I'm assuming it's nude hose under the skirt? Any brands you would suggest for this? Thanks so much

 

[travelermed13]

Oh my goodness, a mid-thigh skirt? Yikes. Thank you for this post, knowing it's 50/50 makes me much more confident in getting a skirt suit. I just haven't been able to find a lot of pant options. I'm assuming it's nude hose under the skirt? Any brands you would suggest for this? Thanks so much

Yeah I was shocked too.
Nude hose, yes. I like Hanes Silk Reflections Sheer hose (in "Natural" which is their Nude). I got mine at JC Penney but I'm sure you could find them a lot of places.
Whatever hose you do buy, I would grab an extra pair just in case they rip or snag while you're putting them on.

 

[premedwishful]

Yeah I was shocked too.
Nude hose, yes. I like Hanes Silk Reflections Sheer hose (in "Natural" which is their Nude). I got mine at JC Penney but I'm sure you could find them a lot of places.
Whatever hose you do buy, I would grab an extra pair just in case they rip or snag while you're putting them on.

Thanks a lot!

 

[Whyamionhere]

So just out of pure curiosity, how much are we "dinged" when we show up to interviews without a proper suit on? So far I've seen a fellow interviewee dressed in a loud floral pattern dress with a casual/fashion blazer, someone else with a hot pink top with ruffles with a skirt hitting the middle of her thigh, and a handful of interviewees in formal-wear with mismatching blazers and bottoms. Most of them seemed very confident in what they were wearing, and they seemed like very intelligent and friendly people from our conversations.

Is this fashion faux-pas something that automatically lands one in the wait-list/rejection pile, or something that doesn't really affect one's application? To some degree, isn't it a good thing to wear something slightly different to be memorable?

Take this with a grain of salt because I live in a very liberal/casual state (that sounds weird as hell but I can't think how best to describe it) and I know people who have gotten into our state school (which is very well ranked) wearing

1. Sweatshirt and jeans at the interview - I kid you not
2. Tight bright colorful floral dress - made out of that stretchy cotton-y fabric

So while anything is possible I like to not test those limits

 

[Pixiwoman]

What would be more appropriate, a pant suit or skirt suit? I'm reading that both are acceptable, but is one preferred over the other?

Having a hard time finding pants that fit great, but don't want to be the only one wearing a skirt suit if this is less common. Thank you!

Both are ok but most females nowadays use formal pants but if you think the skirt fits you best go with that option , best of luck in your interviews!

 

[libahli]

At most of my interviews this season, the women have all been dressed very professionally and appropriately. The few exceptions that come to mind:

1. One woman wore a white suit that hit mid-thigh. Both the color and length really stuck out in not a good way.

2. I saw an extremely inappropriately low neckline, so much so that I can't imagine it not affecting the person's chances.

3. One person wore a pretty short flared dress that looked like she was going clubbing with a blazer on top.

4. Twice noticed women who wore party/fancy nonmatching blazers. These weren't terrible but just not at all professional-looking.


These were all that I noticed though after a bunch of interviews, so out of like 50ish females (totally guesstimating), five isn't that bad. And only three were really off the mark completely.

The most important piece of advice is to wear comfortable shoes that you can walk everywhere in. The campus tours have ranged from just exploring medical school buildings to exploring multiple buildings and hospitals for a full hour.

I had bought new heels for the season and after my first two interviews, I switched to wearing an older pair that was much easier to walk in. Yes you can probably switch shoes before the tours if you really cared, but no one else usually does and it also means that you then need to carry an extra pair of shoes with you. Also, sometimes you'll have to do lots of walking just to get to your interviews, so that's a factor as well.

 

[ifnotnowwren]

Oh my goodness, a mid-thigh skirt? Yikes. Thank you for this post, knowing it's 50/50 makes me much more confident in getting a skirt suit. I just haven't been able to find a lot of pant options. I'm assuming it's nude hose under the skirt? Any brands you would suggest for this? Thanks so much

I really like L'eggs Silken Mist. They are cheap and I found some that matched my skin tone pretty exactly. Because they are so cheap, I bought as many as I could find in my size/color and now I am stocked up for the foreseeable future. I feel like hose is going to rip/snag no matter what brand I buy or what I do, so I might as well go with more pairs of the cost effective option. You can get L'eggs at Target, Walmart, and CVS and probably other places too.

 

[laurenlee3]

Another word of advice for ladies who aren't used to wearing hose regularly: Get them at least one size bigger than you think you need!!!! I'm normally a petite size 2 or small in everything, however I always know to buy medium or even large panty hose because otherwise it will most definitely get runs and tears (as well as feel god-awful). I've never had a problem with them being loose or anything. DO NOT trust the sizing guide on the back of the package, it's all lies...

 

[tjo422]

Another word of advice for ladies who aren't used to wearing hose regularly: Get them at least one size bigger than you think you need!!!! I'm normally a petite size 2 or small in everything, however I always know to buy medium or even large panty hose because otherwise it will most definitely get runs and tears (as well as feel god-awful). I've never had a problem with them being loose or anything. DO NOT trust the sizing guide on the back of the package, it's all lies...

This is totally brand dependent. I actually bought a few pairs (can't remember the brand off hand) from Macy's that actually hung looser on my legs than I would have wished, and it bunched awkwardly behind my knees when I sat. I bought a different brand and it was fine, but I always go according to the size chart and I generally don't have a problem with them being too small. That might be because I'm tall though, so usually the smallest size I can wear according to the chart is medium or it's equivalent.


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[mysankofa]

.

 

[DokterMom]

My vote is that yeah, they're too skinny. Sorry... What about a skirt suit?

 

[BeMD13]

Did anyone else get their suit from the Limited? I posted another thread and people keep telling me the fabric is too cheap.

 

[BeMD13]

Another word of advice for ladies who aren't used to wearing hose regularly: Get them at least one size bigger than you think you need!!!! I'm normally a petite size 2 or small in everything, however I always know to buy medium or even large panty hose because otherwise it will most definitely get runs and tears (as well as feel god-awful). I've never had a problem with them being loose or anything. DO NOT trust the sizing guide on the back of the package, it's all lies...

Same!!

 

[mysankofa]

My vote is that yeah, they're too skinny. Sorry... What about a skirt suit?

Okay, thanks! I ended up buying them in case I don't find anything else. I've only worn skirts like twice in my life so I'm not comfortable enough to wear them for an interview lol. I'll be on the lookout for looser pants though

 

[gabbyjeanb]

Would this top with a pant suit be acceptable for a medical school interview?

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[dogfood123]

lol is it rly necessary to have 4 different forum threads on the same topic? I mean really OP, when you made this thread did you not think "You know what. Maybe Women's Interview Attire #1 through #3 are probably great places to post. I don't need to make a new thread"

 

[kraskadva]

Did anyone else get their suit from the Limited? I posted another thread and people keep telling me the fabric is too cheap.

I did. From their "Collection" suit line and it has been great. Did have to get the jacket sleeves tailored, and the lining has had a few itchy moments (though that may be my dry cleaner's fault), but the fabric looks nice, travels well and had given me zero issues on any front (style, professionalism, cut, etc.).

 

[laurenlee3]

Did anyone else get their suit from the Limited? I posted another thread and people keep telling me the fabric is too cheap.

I did, and I'm very happy with it!

 

[DokterMom]

Would this top with a pant suit be acceptable for a medical school interview?

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Sorry - too casual. Looks like a long sleeve T-shirt...

lol is it rly necessary to have 4 different forum threads on the same topic? I mean really OP, when you made this thread did you not think "You know what. Maybe Women's Interview Attire #1 through #3 are probably great places to post. I don't need to make a new thread"

Thank you for your valuable contribution. If you've seen the other three threads, you may have noticed they were several hundred pages long

 

[saratonin]

Hey all,
I have a unique situation. I recently had an accident with a broken bottle that left me with a large scar on my face (the side of my face, very noticeable if you are on that side of my face, not really noticeable looking straight on). I never wear foundation/powder/etc, only ever mascara (if that). Do you guys think I should try to cover the scar, or not worry about it?

 

[Noxy]

Hey all,
I have a unique situation. I recently had an accident with a broken bottle that left me with a large scar on my face (the side of my face, very noticeable if you are on that side of my face, not really noticeable looking straight on). I never wear foundation/powder/etc, only ever mascara (if that). Do you guys think I should try to cover the scar, or not worry about it?

I think in general, a bit of makeup makes you look more professional. Im not going to say I agree with this because I hate putting the stuff on, but it has been proven that women are viewed as more professional with make up on. Now dont go looking ready to party but light foundation, powder, "natural looking" eyes seems to be appropriate. As for hiding it, i wouldnt go farther than just actually wearing make up but that is up to your comfort level with it. I dont think anyone would ask about it. Seems rude.

 

[saratonin]

I think in general, a bit of makeup makes you look more professional. Im not going to say I agree with this because I hate putting the stuff on, but it has been proven that women are viewed as more professional with make up on. Now dont go looking ready to party but light foundation, powder, "natural looking" eyes seems to be appropriate. As for hiding it, i wouldnt go farther than just actually wearing make up but that is up to your comfort level with it. I dont think anyone would ask about it. Seems rude.

Thanks... I am just worried it might look bad.

Back to the make up though... I was definitely planning on putting on a neutral lip gloss and mascara, maybe a little blush, but is foundation really necessary? I honestly have never worn it in my life and I hate the stuff. I don't even know how to put it on/match my skin color/etc. I don't even own any. Should I make an effort to learn how?

 

[Fancy_Feast]

Thanks... I am just worried it might look bad.

Back to the make up though... I was definitely planning on putting on a neutral lip gloss and mascara, maybe a little blush, but is foundation really necessary? I honestly have never worn it in my life and I hate the stuff. I don't even know how to put it on/match my skin color/etc. I don't even own any. Should I make an effort to learn how?

If you decide to try foundation, I'd suggest going to a makeup counter (like MAC) and having someone match it for you. It can be hard to do it for yourself, especially at a drugstore where you can't test colors. I'd also suggest watching some youtube videos on how to apply it.
Personally, I wish that makeup weren't necessary to show professionalism (men don't wear it!!), but that's not how things are...I think taking a little time to put on some light makeup will express to the admissions committee that you can be professional and understand when it's important to look the part.

 

[Fancy_Feast]

lol is it rly necessary to have 4 different forum threads on the same topic? I mean really OP, when you made this thread did you not think "You know what. Maybe Women's Interview Attire #1 through #3 are probably great places to post. I don't need to make a new thread"

I don't know why you decided to post this rude comment, but if you look back to page 1 you'll see that OP started this thread as a way of compiling past advice from Women's Interview Attire #1, #2 and #3. OP worked hard to create a wonderful reference guide for her fellow SDNers.

 

[Noxy]

Thanks... I am just worried it might look bad.

Back to the make up though... I was definitely planning on putting on a neutral lip gloss and mascara, maybe a little blush, but is foundation really necessary? I honestly have never worn it in my life and I hate the stuff. I don't even know how to put it on/match my skin color/etc. I don't even own any. Should I make an effort to learn how?

As the person above me said, unfortunately at least for such a high stakes interviews, it is in your best interest to wear make up as a woman! It will only help you with showing the adcoms that you care about your appearance and are ready to become a working professional. The foundation will help you cover the scar as well if you are worried and they actually make some foundations that are made to cover facial scars specifically if interested. You dont have to cake it on like some people that you see walking around looking like oompa loompas. Just a nice and light foundation that actually matches your skin tone works wonders! The previous poster mentioned make up counters. YES!! Make up counters are great and be sure to let them know that you have no idea what you are doing! They can help and in my opinion I think learning to put it on may be worth it for you.

 

[saratonin]

As the person above me said, unfortunately at least for such a high stakes interviews, it is in your best interest to wear make up as a woman! It will only help you with showing the adcoms that you care about your appearance and are ready to become a working professional. The foundation will help you cover the scar as well if you are worried and they actually make some foundations that are made to cover facial scars specifically if interested. You dont have to cake it on like some people that you see walking around looking like oompa loompas. Just a nice and light foundation that actually matches your skin tone works wonders! The previous poster mentioned make up counters. YES!! Make up counters are great and be sure to let them know that you have no idea what you are doing! They can help and in my opinion I think learning to put it on may be worth it for you.

Okay, please excuse my ignorance. I am not trying to be rude. But I don't understand why foundation is necessary... like what does it do that makes you look more professional? Honestly it seems to me that putting on mascara/blush makes you look like you tried, but why as a working professional do I need to wear foundation?

 

[Noxy]

Okay, please excuse my ignorance. I am not trying to be rude. But I don't understand why foundation is necessary... like what does it do that makes you look more professional? Honestly it seems to me that putting on mascara/blush makes you look like you tried, but why as a working professional do I need to wear foundation?

In all honesty you really dont need to do anything that you choose not to do. In the end its your choice! All it does is even out your skin tone and brightens your face up. If you dont want to, thats fine. I was just bringing up the controversial side that suggests women need to wear a full face of make up to be professional. Not that I agree, because I dont. I hate make up and I never wear it anywhere other then when necessary. Blush and mascara doesnt really stand out that much but if thats all you are comfortavle with then by all means, rock it! In my interviews I chose to go with a more fuller face (foundation,powder,eye shadow/light liner/mascara.. but it looked natural) but that is what I thought looked right for me because I have some red spots, and its also what ive seen on the interview trail as well. Ive also seen some crazy people looking like they are ready to go out to miami night clubs too, but thats a different story. It really is all about comfort levels in the end. Maybe others can chime in.

 

[Karabo]

In all honesty you really dont need to do anything that you choose not to do. In the end its your choice! All it does is even out your skin tone and brightens your face up. If you dont want to, thats fine. I was just bringing up the controversial side that suggests women need to wear a full face of make up to be professional. Not that I agree, because I dont. I hate make up and I never wear it anywhere other then when necessary. Blush and mascara doesnt really stand out that much but if thats all you are comfortavle with then by all means, rock it! In my interviews I chose to go with a more fuller face (foundation,powder,eye shadow/light liner/mascara.. but it looked natural) but that is what I thought looked right for me because I have some red spots, and its also what ive seen on the interview trail as well. Ive also seen some crazy people looking like they are ready to go out to miami night clubs too, but thats a different story. It really is all about comfort levels in the end. Maybe others can chime in.

I also don't wear makeup in my everyday life, but chose to wear "natural" makeup for interviews to even out my skin tone. There were plenty of other female interviewees who didn't wear makeup, so it's not needed. OP, if you feel uncomfortable wearing makeup, then don't, but for me, it helped give me a boost of confidence. I wore lip tint on my first interview, but then stopped because it made me more self conscious/ I was afraid I would get it on my clothes by accident, so do whatever makes you feel your best!

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[Noxy]

I always skipped over putting anything on my lips in fear of it being on my tooth or clothes or something ridiculous lol.

 

[deleted789565]

Okay, please excuse my ignorance. I am not trying to be rude. But I don't understand why foundation is necessary... like what does it do that makes you look more professional? Honestly it seems to me that putting on mascara/blush makes you look like you tried, but why as a working professional do I need to wear foundation?

I feel the same way. I think it's hilarious/depressing that women are "supposed to" wear suits that deemphasize their femininity but then are expected to wear makeup to look professional. I wear very little makeup on a daily basis (just concealer and maybe mascara) and generally don't like putting makeup on my skin because it makes me breakout. I compromised for interviews with a light powder foundation (which doesn't do much but evens my skin a little and does ~something~ to give the impression that I put in "effort") and blush. But I completely agree and say that if you don't want to wear foundation and it would make you feel uncomfortable and disingenuous then 100% don't! I'm no adcom but I've seen a big range at interviews and I've never thought an applicant looked unprofessional due to a lack of foundation, if anything I've thought it when they don't look comfortable in whatever they've chosen to wear (on their face, on their body, the style of their hair, etc). Do whatever works for you!

 

[happyducky]

Thanks... I am just worried it might look bad.

Back to the make up though... I was definitely planning on putting on a neutral lip gloss and mascara, maybe a little blush, but is foundation really necessary? I honestly have never worn it in my life and I hate the stuff. I don't even know how to put it on/match my skin color/etc. I don't even own any. Should I make an effort to learn how?

If you haven't ever tried foundation, I wouldn't experiment now unless you have the time to spare. I personally wear makeup everyday but if you're new to it, try a tinted moisturizer instead! They give decent coverage and have a natural finish, unlike most powder or foundation. Try Neutrogena Healthy Skin Enhancer (drugstore) or Nars Tinted Moisturizer (if you're willing to splurge). For your scar, you can ask at makeup counters (maybe Mac?) for recommendation of a heavier duty concealer.