Dear Cheap Chica,
I’m a physician applying for my medical residency and I have a few invitations to interviews in the months of January and December, in Miami. I’m on a limited budget but want to look fashionable but professional at the same time. What do you recommend?
It can be so difficult to find something suitable for an interview, especially in the winter. Not only do we never know what to wear, we always think that black slacks are the answer! But don’t be afraid to show that your a confident women by choosing separates, like a skirt or adress …they can be just as professional (and way more stylish) than a suit.
My advise to you is start with essential pieces like a classic black pencil skirt. It’s the one garment in your closet that will never go out of style and it’ll be your “go-to” piece when you seem to have nothing to wear. This is a skirt you can wear on an interview, to work, or even out to dinner with friends.
Like everyone else, I understand that you’re on a budget so make sure everything on your list can be worn more than once and will go with at least 3 things in your wardrobe at home.
For example, a cardigan. This classic, wardrobe staple can be worn to an interview or it can go with jeans, skirts and even leggings. I always suggest that you wear some kind of jacket or cardigan to cover your arms for a formal interview and a cardigan is a way less expensive alternative to a blazer or a jacket!
When choosing a top, opt for something a little more feminine with some luxe details, like this beautiful blouse from Ann Taylor Loft. It says professional and chic all in one!
In the winter, I always like opaque tights to keep your legs warm and more importantly, to keep you looking professional. But since you’re in Miami, you may be able to get away with not wearing them…
Finally, when it comes to shoes and accessories, keep it simple. You can’t go wrong with a black pump… like these that I found at Forever 21 for only $24.80…and with just a few elegant bracelets and some faux diamond studs you’re ready to get hired!
And remember to shop stores like, Ann Taylor Loft, Banana Republic and The Limited during their seasonal sales to score great deals on separates that are suitable for an interview.
Good luck!!
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Hey Miss Chica,
Those are some fantastic choices but I want to encourage the person to wear a blazer instead of the cardigan. I was a professional recruiter for 11 years and I have been a HR manager for the last 2 years and I can tell you that a person’s attire does matter. Believe me, mostly everyone else will be wearing very conservative suits. A cardigan will look a lot more casual in a sea of suits. She doesn’t need to buy a high priced suit but a nice blazer (even in a different color) will keep her fashionable yet professional. My little fashion tip is since it’s hard to match blacks if they are purchased as separates, I wear a black skirt with a silky black top (like the one above) and then I top it with a different color blazer.
Good luck!
In reply to the comment above, does the cardigan not work because its not professional enough or because it’s too different from everyone else’s outfits?
I’ve very little experience but in my opinion, wearing a cardigan instead of a blazer or suit jacket still seems professional but just in a more casual manner as opposed to the typical power suit look.
It would seem more casual because everyone else is dressed more professionally. Whenever I participated in the larger group interviews anyone that dressed more casually was viewed as not being as serious by some of the managers and recruiters. Most of them are much older and really don’t care about fashion at all. I wouldn’t want her to take a chance and get one of those people. Also, a lot of comments were made if people weren’t wearing hose. I thought that was a bit antiquated but oh, well! Whatever decision she makes confidence is the most important thing to have.
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