Wear your hair up in a neat, professional style.
The legal profession is known for being fairly conservative, and you should dress for an interview accordingly. Richard Ikka of the University of Wisconsin conducted a review of the literature and found that occupational stereotypes exist with respect to appearance and dress: An interviewee who "looks the part" is more likely to get hired, and appropriate attire has even more influence than attractiveness on interviewer hiring decisions. It is virtually impossible to dress too conservatively for an interview at a law firm, but you can definitely create a bad impression by being overly casual.
Instructions
1. Choose a classic business suit in traditional dark colors such as black, grey or navy. Select a plain or pinstriped suit, and avoid outlandish or distracting pattern choices. Women should wear a well-fitting skirt suit, and the length of the skirt should be no greater than an inch above or below your knees. Men should consider a tailored suit for appropriate fit.
2. Pair a plain white, ivory or light blue long-sleeved shirt with your suit. Women can wear a plain top, but avoid low cut or tight-fitting selections. Avoid overly bright or dark colors and steer clear of patterned items.
3. Shine your shoes. Wear black or brown pumps --- with a low, 1- to 2-inch heel --- if you are female. Men should choose leather, lace-up shoes; burgundy is also an acceptable color for men, although black shoes are all-purpose and will go with virtually any business suit.
4. Keep your accessories plain. Ties should be in a solid block color or conservative pattern, avoiding larger patterns, bold prints and swirls. Choose a business-appropriate color that is well coordinated with your outfit, such as blue, green or grey, and avoid bold or bright color choices. Themed novelty ties are not appropriate and bow ties are not advisable either.
5. Keep jewelry to a minimum for both sexes. Men should wear nothing more than a watch and wedding ring, if applicable. Women may also wear an understated necklace and earrings, but avoid dangly styles or large hoops. Classic studs or small hoops are acceptable choices for a law firm interview.
6. Get a manicure or give yourself a manicure at home. Your fingernails should be neat, clean and trimmed. Women can select a neutral polish or french manicure, but avoid bright colors, glitter and motifs. Bring a purse or briefcase in plain, neutral colors such as black or brown.
Tags: black brown, business suit, colors such, colors such black, dark colors
