In any job interview, it pays to show yourself in your best light. This means that the first time you meet the interviewer, you should be dressed appropriately. Interviewers are not impressed by the holes in your jeans or the fact that your t-shirt is faded and stylish.  Landing a job interview means that your resume has been placed in the "possible candidates" pile on someone's desk and it is now up to you to impress the interviewer with your professionalism and knowledge.  

Proper job interview attire typically means a dress, or skirt and blouse for women, and slacks and shirt with tie for men. Proper footwear consists of closed toe, professional looking shoes with no scuffs or marks on them. Women's shoes may have a heel, but nothing more than a couple of inches. Open-toed sandals or very high heels are generally not appropriate. Women must be cautious when choosing a dress or blouse. Showing too much cleavage will give the wrong impression.  

Feel free to accessorize with simple pieces of jewelry, but don't overdo it. For men, a watch and, if appropriate, a wedding band is fine. Women should keep their jewelry choices to no more than four or five pieces, including earrings, rings, bracelets and necklaces. Dressing appropriately is the first step in giving yourself the best opportunity to make a good impression on your interviewer.  
 
You may be wondering, "What if I am interviewing for a job that is not in an office, where I won't be wearing a shirt and tie or skirt every day?" The type of job you are interviewing for has little to no bearing on the attire that you should choose in attempting to land that particular job.  

A business suit is appropriate whether you are male or female, taking into consideration that your shirt and tie must not compete for attention, nor should your skirt fall more than three inches above your knee when you are standing. The colors that you choose can be at your discretion, but you are likely to be more successful if you choose a conservative look rather than a more gaudy, flamboyant one.  

Be careful to study yourself in the mirror before you walk out the door and check for any obvious flaws in your wardrobe. Rips, tears, or anything too tight will impact negatively on your interview. Check that there are no holes or runs in your stockings if you wear them (stockings are not a requirement), and be sure that your clothes are pressed and most of all, clean.  
 
Finally, be certain to dress for the weather, but keep in mind that most offices are air-conditioned in the summertime. If you are a woman, and your blouse is lightweight, carry a sweater or jacket in case the interviewer's office is on the cool side. Shivering during an interview may be seen as unprofessional, and will certainly distract from the dialogue. If rain is in the forecast, take an umbrella with you to preserve your carefully chosen attire.
 
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