Dress it up and Dress up Rright!

What do you think is the first thing that people notice about you?  What is the thing that often makes a decisive impression?

It is the clothes that you wear. It is the way you dress that speaks for you before you even open your mouth. This takes on more importance when it comes to dressing up for your professional journey. Whether you are getting ready for college or job interview, an official meeting or simply for a day at office, dressing neatly and impeccably will definitely affect people’s perception of you and your work.

Here is a complete low-down for girls to convincingly look the part of an intelligent, hardworking candidate whether you are aiming for that dream job or an admission.

1. It is very important to know what suits you best, colour, style and cut. So play dress up with your friends and get to know yourself better. I know time is at a premium when the question of your whole life is looming in front of you but trust me, it will be worth the time and energy spent.
2. Invest in some classic clothes, which no matter what the season is or the fashion diktats be, will always be winners such as a suit in a navy or black. Women have the advantage of choosing a smart skirt over the androgynous pants while picking up a suit so carefully select what you think will help you make a better impression.
3. Match your clothes well. For example if you have chosen to wear a skirt with a jacket then they should be of the same colour.
4. Choose a blouse in a complementing colour. The material can be silk or cotton depending on the weather in which you are going to take the interview.
5. Wear a well-fitted top.
6. Pay special attention to the length of your skirt. Anything above the knees is absolutely unacceptable at an interview.
7. Make sure your dress is wrinkle free and ironed to a certain perfection. Crisp dressing pays while appearing for an interview.
8. Refrain from looking casual when appearing for an interview. You don’t want the interviewer to think that you don’t take yourself or your work seriously enough to bother with dressing.
9. Make sure your hair has been nicely washed and combed away from your face. Playing with your hair, twirling it around your finger or pulling it while answering an interviewer’s question can be very damaging. A neat bun held in place is a good choice for a professional interview.
10. As far as jewellery is concerned try to be minimalist in your choice. A simple pearl string will look elegant and work better than a chunky bracelet for a campus interview at a prestigious establishment.
11. A rule of thumb for jewellery is to wear no more than six pieces, which can include a pair of earrings, two rings, a watch and a bracelet or a chain around your neck.
12. Make up should be minimal. Choose neutral tones preferably. Anything bold will impact the seriousness of your persona.
13. Make sure your hands are clean. Either trim your nails or ensure that longer nails have been shaped properly and aren’t stained.
14. If you are carrying a bag or a purse, it should be compact and should match your shoes.
15. Invest in a good pair of shoes. A shiny pair of closed toe pumps is highly recommended.

Readers, if you have questions send a mail to Aanandika Sood and she will certainly have a response  for you.