Business Casual Attire
Business casual attire is classic rather than trendy
Business casual attire for men and women is crisp, neat, and should look appropriate even for a chance meeting with a CEO. It should not look like you are dressing for a cocktail party, going out to a night club or headed to a picnic. Avoid tight or baggy clothing.
What is most important is to represent your true self - your culture, your personality, your comfort - but in a polished way. This shows respect to the organization and the people you are meeting, and shows your care for yourself.
Outfit Basics
Khaki pants, and a long-sleeved, buttoned solid shirt are safe. Jacket, blouse, cardigan or conservative top with pants, or knee-length skirt works as well. Polo/golf shirts are appropriate if the environment is casual, outdoors or in a very hot location. If you’re not sure if jeans are okay, go a step more formal. You can always dress them down later—but you can’t undo showing up underdressed.
Shoes should be clean and polished, ideally leather or another dress style (like loafers or flats). Athletic sneakers are generally not recommended unless the company culture permits it. Belts should match your shoes when worn. Jewelry and accessories should be simple and not distracting.
Clothing Fit and Condition
Clothes should be clean, neatly pressed, and fit properly, neither tight nor baggy. There shouldn’t be missing buttons or lint; and remove external tags and tacking stitches from new clothes. Shoes should be in polished condition. Make sure heels are not worn.
If you are wearing a new outfit for an interview, practice walking and sitting in your interview outfit, including shoes, to check fit and necessary range of movement.
Personal Grooming
Hair should be clean and neat, fingernails need to be clean, perfume or cologne should be used sparingly or not at all. Keep make-up subtle, natural. Keep facial hair trimmed, shaped and well maintained.
Bookbags
Appropriate to carry to an information session held on campus (after all, you are a student). For career fairs and job fairs, bookbags are generally checked at the door, and you should carry a padfolio only.
