The New Rules of What to Wear to an Interview

Stick to the Classics

No matter what field you're interviewing in, you'll do well to find the line between looking stiff and looking sloppy. When it doubt, as O creative director Adam Glassman says, think classic—as in foolproof and flattering silhouettes, like the basic button-down (try the no-iron kind from Brooks Brothers), pencil skirt, slim trousers, and sheath dress, all of which are appropriate to wear to an interview in almost every industry.

Throw on a smart blazer (which conveys authority); it can also be taken off if you're feeling overdressed. "Don't forget to cut the zigzag thread stitched over pockets or the vent in a new jacket, skirt or pair of pants," says Griffin. If you agonize over coordinating separates, try purchasing a piece that comes already mixed and matched (like this two-in-one dress from the Limited that gives the illusion of a top and skirt). For law firms or investment banks, go with a suit. You'll want to avoid trendier pieces—mesh tops or pajama-inspired tops—even if your interview is at a dot-com or creative ad agency. (For those, choose one of the above tops and pair it with dark denim.)