Are these ok for campus tours?
They look very casual. They're probably OK for the tour, but not what you'd want to be wearing if you run into the dean of admissions while walking around. Something with a bit more structure would be better. See post #4813.
That particular watch has very elegant lines, so it reads much dressier than "casual". That watch would be fine. Most other 'non-dress' watches would not be. For those now angsting - you don't
need a watch at all, though glancing at a watch is better than glancing at your cell phone.
I'd like to wear a subtle nail polish to make sure I don't wind up not realizing I have visible dirt under my nails or something. Is this too much? Should I go for a fainter pink?
That pink is still very appropriate. Anything darker is not.
is it definitely bad to wear a patterned blouse under a suit?
Most patterns will be wrong. Something very small, very subtle and very traditional can work -- but if in doubt, don't.
These are the only two purses I have besides a tiny Coach I wouldn't bring because it's covered in logo. Does it look bad to lug around such a big bag? Should I buy something more compact?
Depending on the size, the black could work. But if it's big enough for a beach towel, it's probably too big.
I was planning on going with an ivory shell, but in an effort to do something more interesting I found this gray/silvery shell. Thoughts? Navy suit
View attachment 208750
That fabric looks like satin, which would not be appropriate. And greys often aren't the most flattering colors next to the face --
I didn't know Brooks Brothers sold shoes! BB is generally the epitome of business professional, so consider those the 'standard'. Not a bad price either.
So I sprained my ankle really badly at work tonight and I have an interview a week from tomorrow. My ankle is all swollen like a grapefruit and I can barely squeeze my foot into a large, untied sneaker right now. Of course it shouldn't be this bad a week from now, but I'm pretty sure wearing heels all day for the interview is not going to be an option. Any tips on what kind of shoe might be okay?
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.
Is there any sort of consensus regarding wearing hair up or down?
Any style that is relatively simple, out of your face, tidy, and kind of 'low maintenance' looking. The tight 'librarian bun' can look too severe; but a 'messy bun' isn't right if it's truly 'messy' either -- which makes 'up' sometimes a fine line to walk. Half-up is generally both safe and professional.
I'm really short, like 5 feet tall. Should I wear the highest heels I can manage while still looking professional? I feel like I've read so many things about subconscious biases toward tall people.
No! Then you'd look both short and silly - perhaps even like you're trying to compensate. The most important things to remember are posture and energy. Good posture makes anyone look taller, more capable and more confident. And surely you've met a smaller person who just radiates energy and leadership? Be that person.
