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WHAT TO WEAR TO AN INTERVIEW

Help take the nerves out of a job interview with our recruitment expert’s top tips and outfit ideas for video interviews, in-person interviews and even your first day

Dress for the job you want

Whether you’re going for a creative or a corporate role, dressing appropriately for the job can go some way to helping your chances. “What you wear can have an impact on your interview,” says Lizzie Dyer, recruitment expert at M&S. “When you look good, you feel good – and when you feel good, you feel confident.”

“For creative roles, what you wear can be a representation of your own brand and express who you are, so be yourself when selecting an outfit. Try to avoid clothes with big logos or lots of patterns, as this can be distracting and take away from some important answers that support your application,” Lizzie advises. Add interest to your favourite jeans with a trend-led blouse (supersized collars are a must for autumn/winter 2021) or add a colour-pop blazer to coordinating separates.

“For corporate roles, try something smart and not too casual – this will give off the right impression for the department you want to work in,” says Lizzie. Our range of pure cotton chinos offer comfort without compromising on the dress code, while a sleek shirt dress in a subtle print allows room for a little personality.

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JOB INTERVIEW STYLES

Black wide-leg trousers
Comfort + style
in one
£25
Blue shirt
Choose shirts
with collar details
£29.50
Green ruched-sleeve blazer
Add a
colour-pop blazer
£45
Floral-print shirt dress
Understated
and chic
£29.50

What to wear to a video interview

Throughout the pandemic, we’ve all become more familiar with video calls, and many job interviews are now taking place online. “Picking an outfit for a video call is challenging – sometimes even I find it difficult trying not to look like I’ve just rolled out of bed!” says Lizzie “I would advise a candidate to wear something smart and simple. Maybe add a little accessory to show your personality, as this can be more difficult to get across over a video call, unlike a face-to-face interview.” Take your pick from our range of statement earrings and necklaces, or add a swipe of bold lipstick.

“One of my go-to secret tips is to spritz a little of my favourite perfume just before the interview to relax my senses,” adds Lizzie. Our new range of room sprays and diffusers from Apothecary are another great option if you’re interviewing from home.

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ZOOM-INTERVIEW ESSENTIALS

Jaeger gold earrings
Add some edge
in a subtle way
£30
Autograph raspberry lipstick
Choose from six
hydrating shades
£10
Double-layer 14ct gold necklace
14ct gold with
pretty gems
£49.50
Calm diffuser
Keep your
home calm
£25

What to wear on your first day

Congratulations – you’ve got the job! Now to nail the first-day outfit. “The first day at your new job can be nerve-wracking, so wear something that makes you feel confident,” advises Lizzie. “If you’re starting a creative role, express yourself without letting your outfit outshine what you can bring to the company.” A comfortable midi skirt in a fun print or a classic jeans and tee outfit can work wonders. “For corporate roles, avoid trainers for the first day and take your fashion cues from the rest of the team.” If you’re not a fan of high heels, our range of flat shoes will keep you comfy all day in style.

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FIRST-DAY OUTFITS

Black midi skirt
An Autograph
flippy midi skirt
£49.50
Embroidered white T-shirt
A pretty take on
the white tee
£19.50
Autograph leather ballet shoes
Try square-toe
ballet flats
£49.50
Dark blue denim jeans
Smart straight-leg
jeans
£19.50

Words: Ellie Spicer