How to Look Hirable

Perfect your job interview style with these tips from makeup, hair and career experts

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Accessorize your way to success

First, choose an outfit that means business. Dr. Frankel, our career expert, says your no-fail option is a navy pantsuit, conservative dress, or dress/skirt with a jacket that covers any tattoos or body piercings. Frankel says navy is a "sincere color, that's not dour like black or too 'look at me' like red," making it a good neutral that works on just about everyone.

Once you have your professional base of an outfit, get a little creative to set your look apart from other interviewers. Just like in your cover letter, your own personal flare is important here to make a lasting impression. Frankel says accessories are the best way to do this. A cute, yet conservative headband (like Goody String of Pearls Headband, $4.99) can add a touch of personality to your look without going too over the top. Up the ante by choosing an accessory that has a story behind it, so if asked, you can give a tidbit about it which will instantly make you seem more friendly, human and likable.

See Next Page: Don't get accessory crazy

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Member Comments

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It is best to keep it simple. You can't go wrong with just the basics or makeup and not wild colors or glitter.

by beautybody Wednesday, April 4, 2012 at 07:48PM Report as inappropriate

Don't need any root touchup but will keep in mind to not fidget with my hair.

by MissXu Wednesday, January 4, 2012 at 06:51PM Report as inappropriate

great tips, I love the makeup ones especially

by sportimonki13 Wednesday, January 4, 2012 at 05:09PM Report as inappropriate

Someone said awhile ago that while makeup & hair is important, to not go outside your comfort zone. I can't find the post, but I agree. You're nervous enough as it is, you don't need to also worry about if you look like a racoon. And I agree wtih Bukiyounahito about the outfits and pictures of them. It almost maks a mockery of the process, and reminds me of the movie The Devil Wears Prada (a good movie).

by Supernaturalfan Wednesday, July 13, 2011 at 01:23PM Report as inappropriate

yeah, ok article for the most part, but what is up with the pics?

by naughtnone Monday, June 13, 2011 at 04:59PM Report as inappropriate

Good grief, I wouldn't be able to hire anyone wearing all of these outfits! Sleeves are kind of a must for most jobs, and even the one semi-appropriately dressed person is wearing a kind of short skirt for an office job. LOL Oh well, the article is just fine if you ignore the pictures, right?

by bukiyounahito Thursday, June 9, 2011 at 08:37AM Report as inappropriate

Some of these are good tips, but I do have a few quibbles. 1) The Jessica Simpson style looks way to glamourpuss and just not serious enough for most business settings. 2) I really disagree about the perfume tip. Obviously avoid super controversial, loud scents like Angel, but perfume helps create a lasting impression that can make you stand out in a sea of business suits. For example, I have used Pure Poison, a light floral with a woody base, when applying for retail positions. It suggests I am clean and down to earth. And yes, I've gotten offers for several positions by using appropriate perfume selections.

by greenfaerie38 Wednesday, June 8, 2011 at 09:47PM Report as inappropriate

Good to know!

by LittleBunny Wednesday, June 8, 2011 at 09:09PM Report as inappropriate

Having been in a position of hiring for a office environment job, makeup is a must and hair must be neat and stylish.

by BellezzaBeauty Wednesday, June 8, 2011 at 05:22PM Report as inappropriate

basic advice. nothing new.

by monpetitchou Wednesday, June 8, 2011 at 05:18PM Report as inappropriate

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