Avoiding Fashion Faux Pas on the Job Search Casting Call
by Guest Blogger Tori
Make them that matter aware you know your role.
In a tribute to fashion week, we’re talking fashion dos and don’ts on the hunt for all things employment. So I’ve asked makeup artist guru Tori, to give readers some tips on how to look stylish while pounding the pavement in this guest blog article.
Listening to the daily chorus of high employment accented by the beat of a slow economic recovery can make for a depressing soundtrack. It can also subconsciously make your job “audition” less than stellar before you even press ‘upload’ for your resume. True, many people are up for the same position; but make your “audition” or interview one employers will never forget by dressing the part and putting on your “game” face on.
In theatre, you’re taught to research for the role you’re auditioning. The same holds true for your interview. The best way to do this is to check out the appearances of people in the position you’re applying for and the attire of the people in the role that you ultimately would like to have.
For the ladies…Unless your interview is in the fashion or beauty industry, a suit in a conservative color (blue, black, gray) is the best wardrobe choice. The jacket should not be boxy but have a tailored fit. Pants or a skirt? It’s your choice. Just make sure they’re pressed and the appropriate length. And don’t worry that wearing a suit will make you lose your personality. You can show your personality through carefully placed accessories like a tasteful broche or pashmina. If you don’t have a suit, a skirt or pants and matching sweater/cardigan will work fine. If possible, try to wear heels. Flats send the image of normal--not exceptional.
Regarding make up for the big interview, putting your game face on doesn’t mean smoky eyes and frosty gloss. It simply means covering the basics. A light powder, a tinted moisturizer, or foundation says that you are seeking a “call back”. Your eye shadow colors should be taupe, brown, gray, peach, or pink. Lipstick or gloss should be in colors like brown, bronze, pink, peach, plum, or burgundy. Notice I did NOT mention red lipstick. Red lipstick can be a distraction to the interviewer. Save the red lipstick for after you’ve landed the job.
And for the fellas…Dressing the part means a nice, well-fitting dark suit and tie. A three piece suit is not a requirement; a 2 piece suit is sufficient. Shoes should be polished and professional (no sneakers or boat shoes, please!). Game face for the gentlemen means being well groomed. If you wear a beard or mustache, make sure it’s shaven, shaped and clean. Your hair should be freshly cut and clean as well. If you wear your hair in locks, make sure they’re groomed and arranged neatly. You can put them in a ponytail or wear them down.
Looking the part in any scenario can build your confidence and make them that matter aware you know your role.
In theatre, you’re taught to research for the role you’re auditioning. The same holds true for your interview. The best way to do this is to check out the appearances of people in the position you’re applying for and the attire of the people in the role that you ultimately would like to have.
For the ladies…Unless your interview is in the fashion or beauty industry, a suit in a conservative color (blue, black, gray) is the best wardrobe choice. The jacket should not be boxy but have a tailored fit. Pants or a skirt? It’s your choice. Just make sure they’re pressed and the appropriate length. And don’t worry that wearing a suit will make you lose your personality. You can show your personality through carefully placed accessories like a tasteful broche or pashmina. If you don’t have a suit, a skirt or pants and matching sweater/cardigan will work fine. If possible, try to wear heels. Flats send the image of normal--not exceptional.
Regarding make up for the big interview, putting your game face on doesn’t mean smoky eyes and frosty gloss. It simply means covering the basics. A light powder, a tinted moisturizer, or foundation says that you are seeking a “call back”. Your eye shadow colors should be taupe, brown, gray, peach, or pink. Lipstick or gloss should be in colors like brown, bronze, pink, peach, plum, or burgundy. Notice I did NOT mention red lipstick. Red lipstick can be a distraction to the interviewer. Save the red lipstick for after you’ve landed the job.
And for the fellas…Dressing the part means a nice, well-fitting dark suit and tie. A three piece suit is not a requirement; a 2 piece suit is sufficient. Shoes should be polished and professional (no sneakers or boat shoes, please!). Game face for the gentlemen means being well groomed. If you wear a beard or mustache, make sure it’s shaven, shaped and clean. Your hair should be freshly cut and clean as well. If you wear your hair in locks, make sure they’re groomed and arranged neatly. You can put them in a ponytail or wear them down.
Looking the part in any scenario can build your confidence and make them that matter aware you know your role.
Tori, is a makeup artist, blogger, esthetician and creator of Face Yourself by Tori cosmetics. He has been in the beauty industry for 10 years. He currently resides in the D.C. metro area. He believes “your face is the one accessory that never goes out of style.” Check out Tori's blog at www.2faceyourself.blogspot.com
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