Dress for Success
You only get one first impression, thus it is important that you present yourself well in your interview answers, but it is also important to consider the impression your outward appearance can make.
Business Professional (Interview Attire)
It is important to note that for both in person and virtual interviews these rules apply. The full suit helps with your overall body language and so your attire won’t change just because you are virtual!
- The Suit: Single breasted 2-3 buttons jacket. Matching jacket and pants or knee length skirt or dress. Best colors grey, black, navy, or brown. Pant length should give a slight break at the front of your shoe. ½” of shirt collar showing.
- Shirts/Blouses: Thick enough so that it isn’t see through. Avoid tight fit, low necklines, and busy patterns. Best colors are white, light blue, pale color
- Ties: Darker than your shirt. Length should end at your belt. Keep it
conservative
- Jewelry: Jewelry shouldn’t overshadow you, can show some personality but best to keep it conservative.
- Accessories: Professional watch. Nude colored hose. Briefcase/portfolio OR purse. No book bags. Match belt and shoes. Calf length socks should match or be slightly darker than pants.
- Makeup, Hair, Facial Hair: Natural looking makeup. Shave or neatly trimmed beard. Professional haircut. No cologne/perfume. Cover tattoos if possible.
- Shoes: closed toe, 1” – 1 1/2” heel, comfortable, polished leather. Best colors are black or burgundy.
Business Casual (In the office, conferences, networking
- “The Suit”: Casual pants, skirts, or dresses. Pants/skirts/dresses neatly pressed. Recommended colors: navy, black, gray, brown, or khaki
- Shirts/Blouses: Button down, polo/golf shirts tucked in; sweaters; cardigans, knit shirts
- Shoes: Leather, low heels; boots; or dress sandals
- Accessories: Socks match shoes, can be bolder with jewelry.
- Grooming: Neat and groomed hair on head and face
UNC Career Center: Styled for Success
The UNC Career Center partners with UNC donors and the Office of Scholarships & Student Aid to provide funding support to students participating in professional development experiences such as internships, professional conferences, networking events and more.
STYLED FOR SUCCESS – Outfit Your Ambitions!
Styled for Success provides reimbursement funds to students up to $700 for professional attire, available to UNC juniors, seniors, and graduate students who are receiving need-based financial aid and are actively engaged in professional development.
To qualify for the stipend, please complete the following steps:
- Compile a list of clothing you wish to be reimbursed for complete with cost and taxes.
- Complete the Styled for Success application.
Please contact Allison Binkley, Director of Career, Alumni, and Employer Engagement and/or Shauna Hines-Farmer, Assistant Director of Career, Alumni, and Employer Engagement, with any questions regarding your career planning and development on the above topics or anything else related to your career.