help! Interview in NYC

Can I get your thoughts/advice on attire for an interview in NYC with
a consulting firm?
Here's what I have so far:
Charcoal Grey skirt suit (jacket has one button)
Nude hose (Hanes Silk Reflections Barely There)
Black pumps
Now, the problem:
I'm having trouble figuring out what top I should wear under the
jacket. In the past, I have worn a striped button down shirt
(purple/grey stripes on dusky rose), but I've since realized that I am
not at all comfortable in button down shirts. I was thinking a fitted
tank top or shirt might be a good alternative... would this be
appropriate? Should I steer towards a dressier fabric (silk) or would
a fine gauge sweater kind of fabric be okay also? Any ideas on what
kind of neckline would look best? Should I stay away from
ruffles/lace/embellishments?
I'm a little nervous about walking around NYC in my interview clothes
with snow everywhere. Do people actually walk around in dressy shoes
in the winter?
I'm also looking around for a professional looking bag that I bring
into the interview... any suggestions?
Sorry for all the questions! I'm really excited (and nervous!), and
just want to be comfortable so I can ace the question part of the
interview! Thank you!

jc <chipmu...@hotmail.com> wrote:
fine so far
<nitpick>
"Button down" when used to describe a shirt, really refers to the
collar. Land's End should have examples, which would never be
my first choice for an interview outfit.
You mean an ordinary shirt, with an opening that buttons in the
front.
I would wear a solid top in any case, even if the striped one
is beautiful
We all really need good standardized terms for clothing items.
I get rather tired of finding "tee shirts" listed as shirts, etc.
</nitpick>
What I really would want myself is a shell blouse in a woven solid
fabric with nicely faces edges, and a back opening, preferably
with a covered placket. Where you might obtain same I have no
idea. That doesn't help you much, I realize.

I've done a lot of interviewing in NYC, and I'm there almost every day
so I feel qualified to answer this question.
Here's what I have so far:
Charcoal Grey skirt suit (jacket has one button)
Nude hose (Hanes Silk Reflections Barely There)
Black pumps
This sounds fine. I would wear sheer black hose with this, but that's
just me.
Now, the problem:
I'm having trouble figuring out what top I should wear under the
jacket. In the past, I have worn a striped button down shirt
(purple/grey stripes on dusky rose), but I've since realized that I am
not at all comfortable in button down shirts. I was thinking a fitted
tank top or shirt might be a good alternative... would this be
appropriate?
A fitted sweater with clean lines would be a good choice under the
suit. Just about any neckline will work –– boat neck, v–neck, crew
neck. Pick whatever neckline and color looks best on you. I've been
loving sweaters with asymmetrical v–necks this winter.
Should I stay away from
ruffles/lace/embellishments?
YES!!!!
I'm a little nervous about walking around NYC in my interview clothes
with snow everywhere. Do people actually walk around in dressy shoes
in the winter?
I spend the winter wearing pants suits with high heel black leather
boots. On the streets, I've seen everything from high heel shoes to
rubber galoshes (not a look I'd recommend).
The other day I saw a woman in court wearing a perfectly fitted
charcoal grey skirt suit with a sweater underneath, sheer grey hose and
these gorgeous high–heel pointy–toe pumps in a pewter (gun metal) grey.
It was the morning after a snow storm, and the shoes looked perfect.
I'm still trying to figure out (a) where she found those shoes (I want
them), and (b) how she managed to walk around the city without getting
salt, water, slush on them, etc.
I'm also looking around for a professional looking bag that I bring
into the interview... any suggestions?
I would go with a black leather tote bag that is big enough to hold
whatever you'll need to carry.
Sorry for all the questions! I'm really excited (and nervous!), and
just want to be comfortable so I can ace the question part of the
interview! Thank you!
Don't apologize. That's what we're here for. :)
Good Luck!

jc writes:
Another question about wearing a button front shirt with a suit (and
sorry if it seems a bit silly): Does the collar of the shirt stay
inside the suit or does it overlap the collar of the suit? I hope that
makes sense. I'd always done the former, but I saw some pictures
recently where the model did the latter. I'm not sure which is
correct.
I've seen it done both ways, but I always wear the collar out to add
some color to the suit and frame my face.

So, now another question... Do I need to tuck my shirt in? I don't
really like the feel of having my shirt tucked in, but I get the
impression that it's the appropriate thing to do. I'm most concerned
about the look from the back as I walk. My jacket has a slit at the
bottom (for movement), and part of my shirt is visible if I leave it
untucked.
On 3 Mar 2005 15:47:20 –0800, "sleepi8" <slee...@aol.com> wrote:

Hi JC,
Well first off all, congrats on securing the interview!! Now the clothes
can make or break you ––As I am sure you realize. My suggestion is that
when dressing for an interview, find out the company's culture. Once you
do, you can then know how much fun you can have with your attire. Your
current selection is fine, but you really should step back and see what
outfit makes you the most comfortable. You are going to an interview where
they will prob. put you in a hot seat. So at least be comfortable in your
attire. Also, another important point when dressing for an interview is
that you must wear something that will make you stand out in a positive way.
Something that is different, unique and says something about you. You
really don't want to get lost in the sea of suits.
For myself, I wear certain jewelries that stands out, but not all in their
faces. A nice piece. I may do my hair differently, wear pumps that is not
your everyday common, solid black pumps. I give them my sense of fashion,
which I think says alot about me. So far, hun it has been sucessful in all
of my interviews (I–Banking and consulting) and when I had my modleing
go–sees that is one of my positives (they loved it).
All in all, have fun, good luck, do your research and remember beauty
does not come without sleep (8hrs at least). Its your glowing face they
will remember. No make–up can give you the true glow. Lotsa Luck


"jc" <chipmu...@hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:eotc21tjm21nlmvdap9h0tnjri06ect...@4ax.com...

jc wrote:
am
I would agree with some of the previous advice you have gotten in that
a plain––meaning no lace, no ruffles, no cami––top is the best choice.
The choice of material I think it's pretty much up to you...as long as
it isn't anything sheer too shiny. I read once somewhere that yellow
is a good color for an interview top because for some psychological
reason I can't remember now the interviewer is more likely to remember
you if you wear it.
I am not sure why you think walking around with heels in nyc is a major
endeavor. I walk around with heels every single day and it's not a
major thing. There is some slush around but you just walk your way
around it, it's not a major problem. I think the tennis with suit look
is passe and a major no–no. I think it would look kind of hickish to
get to the building where the interview is a start changing your shoes
there, in the lobby? in the bathroom of the company? Not worth all
the hassle IMO.
I think sheer hose is perfectly fine (assuming you have shaved legs).
Bag should be smallish, simple (meaning no major fashion statement
piece)
if you need more space to carry things then I would suggest a
briefcase.
Depending on what your budget is, you may want to try Bally's of
Switzertland they have some very nice, classic ones.
Good luck with your interview.
––Maria

On Thu, 03 Mar 2005 18:23:40 GMT, "RLK"
<bookhound_...@hotmail.com_remove dashes_> wrote:
Was this a collared, button front shirt?
!!! Whoa! What a horror story.
Thanks for the advice!

good luck with your interview...try not to be nervous. Do you know
anyone who works at this place? In some places, a nice suit and a
conservative sweater would be fine, but in other places, if you do not
have the right LABEL, you are a bad person.

sleepi8 wrote:
day
that's
Agreed on all fronts.
Now, the problem:
am
been
Not for a first interview in a conservative profession, IMHO. I would
recommend going with the striped button front shirt originally
described, or another button front shirt (the most conservative option,
but the striped one would give it a little twist). Another option
would be a solid untextured shell with a conservative neckline (crew to
SLIGHTLY scooped or vee; nothing more revealing than the button front
shirt).
I definitely would NOT wear a tank or cami with this suit for an
interview. Although you are not likely to take your jacket off, the
one–button design makes it likely that the interviewer will see the arm
area, and tank is just not sufficiently conservative –– you could look
like one of those men who iron only the fronts of their shirts.
Should I stay away from
NO RUFFLES!!!!!!
clothes
Some do, some don't. Frankly, I wonder about people who walk around in
snow storms wearing high spiky heels; I would guess that most of them
live in Manhattan and take cabs. Other people (myself included) follow
the time honored tradition of changing shoes in the office. Today, for
example, it's bitter cold. While the streets of midtown are pretty
clear, there are still a lot of icy patches in my neck the woods, and I
walk about 1/2 a mile to the bus every morning (after waiting for One's
school bus to pick him up). I'm wearing black boots with low
*man–like* heels outside, and trading them for tweed and black patent
spectator pumps with 2 inch heels at the office. If I run out at
lunch, I may not switch to the boots, but I will certainly wear the
boots home tonight.
If you're worried (and having my own horror story about being stuck in
a deluge on the way to an interview, I understand), then take a cab
from your hotel to the interview.
and
grey.
want
getting
She didn't walk around in them. She stowed her walking shoes in her
briefcase or under the bench at Court. At least that's what I always
do.
I wouldn't go with a tote unless it's VERY conservative, more of a
briefcase or business bag. Go for a relatively small black leather bag
–– nothing with a lot of outer pockets. Something like this
http://coach.com/shop/product_nobefree.asp?product_no=1482&category_id=289&show_bc=&easyask_id=
or even this at the low end
http://www.target.com/gp/detail.html/ref=br_1_7/601–7145092–1096164?%5Fencoding=UTF8&frombrowse=1&asin=B00025G2IM
Also carry a briefcase or portfolio with extra copies of your resume
and a list of your references. If you're in school or a recent
graduate, have a couple of copies of your transcript.
Good luck!!
Barbara

jc writes:
I've read online have said that skin–colored hose is the most
appropriate for interviews.
The sheer black hose is a personal preference. I only wear black
shoes, and I don't like to break up the line with nude hose. I think
that the articles recommend nude hose because it is the most
conservative way to go. However, I've interviewed in gray and black
skirt suits wearing sheer black hose, and it didn't hurt me in any way.
I was interviewing for attorney positions.
Somebody mentioned something about changing shoes. Personally, I think
it's better to wear a comfortable shoe that you can walk in that looks
good. I have my high heel pointy–toe pumps for when I know I don't
have to walk far, but if I'm going to NYC or Brooklyn, and I know I'm
going to have to do a lot of walking, I wear my Aerosoles.
I know I suggested a tote, and I still think that a structured leather
tote would be acceptable, but I think that Barbara(?) is right –– a
briefcase would be better for an interview. I don't know about the
messenger bag. It may make you look too much like a student.

jc <chipmu...@hotmail.com> wrote:
The ads are wrong, as are the websites, the catalogs.
Do not wear anything fanciful for this interview... and probably
not to work either.
The ads and websites will also be seriously misleading if you
wear what they might suggest to an office party. Really seriously
misleading. This is a fashion trap of exquisite difficulty.
Hmmm... 2 blocks should be manageable. Alas, no more coin lockers
at the train stations.

"jc" <chipmu...@hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:eotc21tjm21nlmvdap9h0tnjri06ect...@4ax.com...
I worked for a publishing firm in NYC for 13 years –– I really miss the city
but don't miss the 3–hr commute each day. I got to shop in all the boutiques
on Madison Avenue, loved it!!!
For the shirt, I'd chose a silk shirt in conservative black or navy stripes.
My favorite shirt in my wardrobe is my "white on black" striped shirt, where
the predominate color is black (not the other way around). It looks
absolutely striking.
Very pared jewelry like watch, ring and earrings. or watch, ring and
solitaire necklace
I'd choose a black briefcase like:
http://coach.com/shop/product_nobefree.asp?product_no=688&category_id=200
Not huge, for your resume, and whatever literature they'll give you. And of
course room for your shoes if you deal with snow.
If there is snow, the roads are usually quite clear so wear some light boots
or sneakers. Change before you enter the human resources department, or ask
for a key to the ladies room and change there. If you absolutely need to
leave your wet sneakers in HR, put it in a bag and ask that you keep it
there, in their closet temporarily until after the interview. I'm sure they
will accommodate you.
Just don't let anyone see you actually changing your shoes.... it sounds
superficial, but in the city, sometimes looks are everything... I'm not
saying you will do this, but just a funny story to share: there was an
interviewee that was on the top of the candidate list for one of the VPs, a
high profile position, and she did a major faux pas –– she changed her shoes
in the elevator while the interviewing VP was taking her back to HR!!
ACKS... she didn't get the job.

Thanks for your help... I had a few questions about your suggestions.
On 2 Mar 2005 21:04:02 –0800, "sleepi8" <slee...@aol.com> wrote:
Here's what I have so far:
Is the sheer black hose just a personal preference? All the articles
I've read online have said that skin–colored hose is the most
appropriate for interviews.
Thanks for confirming my thoughts that a sweater is okay under a suit.
I've been trying to shop for something that looks formal enough (which
is why I asked the question about embellishments)... a plain sweater
under the jacket just looks kind of... plain.
It seems like there are always those people who are perfectly put
together, doesn't it? I would never think to wear grey hose + grey
shoes! (which is probably why I'm agonizing over the seemingly simple
task of dressing for an interview...)
What do you think of a sleek–looking black messenger bag? I saw one at
Target that I liked. It actually looked pretty professional. It had no
outer pockets... just the signature flap over the front of the bag.
Thanks for your suggestions!

jc <chipmu...@hotmail.com> wrote:
yes. Yes. YES. tuck the shirt in. :–)
it is. the vogue for the outside–shirttails is "in your face"
anti–professional.
<historical note>
once upon a time, there were tailored shell blouses that did not
need to be tucked in. I have never owned one, but I saw them
in my extreme youth.
</historical note>

jc wrote:
messenger
My gut feeling says no.
I think mainly because the messenger bag will have a shoulder strap
which will make it look casual. However, if the bag has removable
shoulder straps you can perhaps remove those and carry it from the
handle (assuming it has a smaller handle) then it might work.
––Maria

"jc" <chipmu...@hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:e36f21d21sqnimb9j469u6h84bh8ljc...@4ax.com...
It's collared, buttoned. Silk is very comfortable when you find the right
feel. It should feel silky both outside and inside.
Very coincidentally, a version of this shirt appears in Better Homes &
Gardens, the April 2005 issue, on page 10 (editor's letter), except the one
I have is striped throughout the collar and cuffs.

On 3 Mar 2005 06:51:39 –0800, "Barbara" <mom_2_...@hotmail.com> wrote:
Barbara, I asked sleepi8 this also, but why would you go with sheer
black hose?
A fitted sweater with clean lines would be a good choice under the
suit. Just about any neckline will work –– boat neck, v–neck, crew
neck. Pick whatever neckline and color looks best on you. I've
I guess I'll at least try on the dress shirt (button front) that I've
worn in the past. I don't really like wearing those types of shirts,
but maybe it's actually a good thing because it makes me feel more
formal. It helps that I have had really good luck/results with it in
other interviews.
Another question about wearing a button front shirt with a suit (and
sorry if it seems a bit silly): Does the collar of the shirt stay
inside the suit or does it overlap the collar of the suit? I hope that
makes sense. I'd always done the former, but I saw some pictures
recently where the model did the latter. I'm not sure which is
correct.
I think I'll take your advice about not going with a tank or cami. To
add to your argument about formality, it is winter, so I'd probably
freeze if that's all I had on under the jacket.
Should I stay away from
ruffles/lace/embellishments?
YES!!!!
=) Okay, I get the point!
A friend actually suggested changing shoes when I get there. The
company is on an upper floor of a highrise, so I don't think it will
be bad if I find a bathroom on the first floor to do the switch.
I'm also looking around for a professional looking bag that I bring
into the interview... any suggestions?
I wanted to bring just one bag (large enough to fit my resume and
other paperwork) into the interview. I was at Target yesterday and
found a very sleek black messenger bag––– no outer pockets, just the
messenger flap over the front. What do you think?
Thanks for your advice Barbara!

On Thu, 3 Mar 2005 00:22:00 –0500, "Khadijat" <khadi...@virginia.edu>
wrote:
It's a hard balance... I do want to be distinctive, but I'm nervous
that my distinctiveness will come off in a bad away (especially since
I've heard this industry is pretty conservative).
Thanks for your supportive words!

On 3 Mar 2005 07:35:50 –0800, airam1002...@yahoo.com wrote:
I have yet to find a yellow that flatters me, so that probably won't
happen. (but I find color psychology to be fascinating stuff. There's
some color that curbs your appetite... if only I can remember what
color that was!)
I think I asked the question about ruffles/lace is because that's what
I've seen in ads lately. My current job is very casual, so I don't
dress up much nor do I see what real people wear for formal office
attire. But the websites for Nordstrom's, Banana Republic, etc. would
make me believe that people wear all sorts of fanciful tops with their
suits.
You're probably right. I'd be walking 2 blocks at most... I'll have to
think about this some more.
I've asked other posters this already... would a plain black messenger
bag be okay? No outer pockets, very sleek, but still a messenger bag.
Thanks, Maria!

jc wrote:
wrote:
sleepi8 wrote:
Here's what I have so far:
Charcoal Grey skirt suit (jacket has one button)
Nude hose (Hanes Silk Reflections Barely There)
Black pumps
This sounds fine. I would wear sheer black hose with this, but
that's
just me.
Agreed on all fronts.
I prefer the tonal look, not breaking the line from skirt to shoe; it's
more of a preference thing for me than an interview do or don't. While
nude is definitely the more conservative look, I don't see a lot of it
these days, and sheer black is almost certainly acceptable.
SNIP
that
IMHO, that depends upon the collar of the shirt, the neckline of the
suit, and your build. With a one–button jacket, I'd probably wear the
collar inside the suit, but YMMV.
SNIP
My experience with NYC buildings is that a public restroom is unlikely
to be available in the lobby unless there is a restaurant or stores
there, so I wouldn't count on that as an option.
BTW, I always ask the receptionist if I can use the restroom before
being announced for interviews or important meetings. It allows me to
comb my hair (which may have become disheveled en route), apply
lipstick, adjust clothing, check hose for runs (yes, I do carry an
extra pair if it's a sufficiently important meeting). I wouldn't
change shoes at that time, though.
SNIP
Even better idea than mine!
I was at Target yesterday and
It depends. The fact is, you rarely see women with traditional
briefcases anymore. A sleek messenger bag, so long as it is
professional looking, may do it.
Barbara