We promise that the pre-interview jitters are perfectly normal, and probably a good sign that you care about the job you’re applying for. So to help ease them before you step into the room, we’ve curated some unique pieces that’ll make getting ready for the big day easier. Consider this list the equivalent of laying your outfit out the night before. And if you’re looking for stories of inspiring women paving their own career paths, check out our founders’ podcast, 9 to 5ish.
Looking for more affordable, stylish clothes? Here’s what to wear when working, traveling, playing, and expecting.
J.Crew’s lady jacket…
This jacket has become one of the brand’s iconic staples since it’s the ultimate throw-it-on-and-go piece. It has a relaxed fit, gold buttons, and can be worn alone or layered. For an interview, we’d pair it with a pair of freshly steamed trousers. On the weekends, it’d look great with jeans. ($99.50+, J.Crew)
A short-sleeve shirtdress…
This midi dress is a favorite amongst our editors. It’s lightweight, flowy, and one of those dependable pieces that always has you looking put together. It comes in petite, regular, and tall lengths — one editor literally raves about how comfortable it is for all-day office wear. Plus, it folds up easily so it’s perfect for packing. ($100, Abercrombie & Fitch)
A white blouse with embroidered detailing…
For an interview, you can never go wrong with a white button-down. This one from Sezane is on the pricier side, but it’ll last you for years to come. It has mother-of-pearl buttons, embroidered detailing, and a ruffled neckline. We love wearing statement tops to interviews because it’s one piece that does all the hard work for you. ($125, Sezane)
A short sleeve mini dress that looks like two pieces…
Thanks to the color-blocking, this dress looks like you assembled a top and a skirt. When really, it’s just one piece to put on. Our editor has this dress and she loves to layer a blazer or cardigan on top, tights underneath for coverage and warmth on cooler days, and a stack of necklaces to complete the outfit. This dress comes in petite, regular, and plus sizing. ($148, Anthropologie)
A work tote that’ll keep all your essentials organized…
You don’t want to show up to your big interview digging around your bag in a panic. This tote from Quince has three sleek compartments and multiple pockets to keep your laptop, important paperwork, and other smaller essentials together. It’s made of Italian leather and has long straps to ensure it’ll sit on your shoulder comfortably. ($169.90, Quince)
A no-frills top under $20…
Sometimes, the best interview outfits are the simplest ones. There’s nothing wrong with a basic short-sleeve blouse, trousers, and a belt. This one from H&M has raglan sleeves and a tie at the neckline. The best part? It’s $17.99. Buy both colors while you’re at it. ($17.99, H&M)
A faux-plisse midi sweater dress…
Our latest obsession: any and all clothing from Target. All of their pieces lately have been on trend, super cute, and wildly affordable. This midi dress is currently sitting in our carts for fall and we’re excited to pair it with ankle boots. If you’re in a clothing rut, this is definitely your sign to take a trip to Target. ($38, Target)
A satin button-down…
Here’s yet another obsession from Target. This satin top comes in four colorways, including two chic striped versions. It comes in sizes up to 4X and there’s something about it that feels fun, yet professional. If you prefer to wear color and want that to shine through in your next interview, add this top to your cart immediately. ($13.75+, Target)
A wide-leg tank jumpsuit…
Yes, you can wear a jumpsuit to a job interview. This one is made of a cotton-linen blend and has seaming throughout that makes the bodice more structured. Depending on the time of the year, you can wear a turtleneck underneath or a cardigan on top. ($148, Madewell)
A celebrity-loved bucket bag…
If it’s good enough for Katie Holmes, it’s good enough for us. This bestselling bag from Madewell is equal parts expensive-looking and practical. It's roomy and has ample space for everything you’ll need for your next interview or a day in the office. Plus, it comes in eight different colors depending on your preferences. ($178, Madewell)
An office-appropriate skirt you won’t hate on weekends…
Skirts can be difficult because you don’t want one that feels stuffy to the point of never wearing it outside the office. This belted one from Ann Taylor has modern pleating and will easily take you from office to drinks, or even dinner on the weekends. For a skirt, it’s definitely more of an investment piece but its versatility makes it worth it. ($97.30, Ann Taylor)
A pair of shoes you won’t be begging to take off…
Even if you dislike wearing heels, it’s always good to have a solid pair in your wardrobe. This pair from Ann Taylor has a comfortable, low-block heel. We’re wearing these to pretty much any important occasion, from important meeting days in the office to weddings and bridal showers. Wear them with trousers, dressers, skirts, and even jeans. We also love the strap at the ankle for added stability. ($110.60+, Ann Taylor)
A long-sleeve mini dress from a brand Skimm’rs love…
Skimm’rs have been loving Walmart’s Free Assembly line for months now — primarily their affordable dresses. This belted option is similar to the bestselling one from this summer, but instead with long sleeves. It comes in black, but we think the navy floral printed one would be a standout for a job interview. ($28, Walmart)
A tie-waist jumpsuit that’s ideal for remote interviews…
This style is a little bit more casual, so if you have a virtual interview coming up but want something that’ll have you feeling confident at home, try this. It comes in five neutral hues and has a V-neckline that’ll be perfect for layering necklaces. All you need now is a neutral background and you’ll be ready to go. ($69, Nordstrom)
Loafers from a brand known for comfort…
The last thing you’ll want to worry about on an interview day is blisters. Clarks have some of the most cushiony, comfortable shoes we’ve ever worn. This pair is made from soft leather and has a chunky sole (that isn’t too chunky). Plus, their insoles will mold to your feet with time and will get even more comfortable as you wear them. ($130, Clarks)
Some Mary Janes you can customize…
We love Aterre’s shoes because you can interchange the straps for a custom look. To maintain the Mary Jane style, leave the straps as they are. Then, you can remove them and you’ll have a pair of mules. The brand makes other kinds of straps in varying thicknesses, styles, and colors, so you can get multiple looks out of one shoe. ($215+, Alterre)
A denim alternative that’s nice enough for a job interview…
The trick with wearing denim to a job interview is picking a cut that looks more like trousers. This high-waisted pair of M.M.LaFleur is actually made of stretch cotton that looks like denim. Because of that, you’ll get a comfortable pair of pants that you can wear across most dress codes. The brand says that they run big, so they suggest going a size down. There are even snaps in the hem, so you can adjust the length depending on the shoes you’re wearing. ($255, M.M.LaFleur)
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