Wednesday, January 16, 2008

Top 20 Wardrove Malfunctions

*I'm not sure what these boys are trying to do in these pictures but...it's definately NOT working...and they won't be either if they wear this to an interview!*No one needs 'Queer Eye's' Carson Kressley to tell them that wearing shoes to an interview is a good idea, but could you be guilty of one of these top 20 fashion faux pas?

1. Carrying a backpack or fannypack instead of a briefcase or portfolio: Some image consultants suggest women ditch their purse, too! (umm...were fanny packs ever cool?)

2. Sunglasses on top of your head or headphones around your neck: Be sure to remove all your "transit gear" and tuck it in your briefcase before entering the lobby (don't forget to remove all your Madison Metro transit gear before heading into Heston Hall)

3. Too-short skirts: Forget what some of those gals on 'The Apprentice' are wearing. Your skirt should cover your thighs when you are seated.

4. The wrong tie: Ties should be made of silk, no less than three and a quarter inches wide with a conservative pattern. Image consultants say the best colors are red or burgundy. (leave the Vikings tie at home buddy...save if for Sunday)

5. Overly bright or large-patterned clothing: With the possible exception of creative fields like advertising or computer programming, it's best to stick with navy, black or gray.

6. Heavy makeup on women (or any makeup on a man) (umm...is make up on a man an issue?? ahh....)

7. Earrings on men: In fact, men should avoid wearing any jewelry unless it is a wedding ring, class ring or metal watch. (save the bling bling for later)

8. More than one set of earrings on women...

9. Facial piercings, tongue jewelry or visible tattoos (you might think that giant tatoo of a scorpion is pretty sweet...but trust me...no one else does...especially your employer!)

10. Ill-fitting clothes. Few people can wear things straight off the rack. Spending a little extra to have your garments tailored is a worthwhile investment.

11. Long fingernails, especially with bright or specialty polishes. Nails should look clean and be trimmed to a length that doesn't leave an observer wondering how you keep from stabbing yourself. (ewwww....)

12. Unnatural hair colors or styles. Remember, Donald Trump was a billionaire well before he began wearing a comb-over. If you're balding, try a close-cropped cut like Bruce Willis or Matt Lauer. (agreed...comb-overs are never cool)

13. Short-sleeved shirts, even worse when worn with a tie

14. Fishnets, patterned hosiery or bare legs (no matter how tan you are). Women should stick with neutral color hosiery that complements their suit. (save the fishnets for the club...wait...who wears fishnets anyways???)

15. Men whose socks don't match their shoes, or whose socks are too short and leave a gap of flesh when they are seated (guys...this fashion error screams DORKY!!! please match your socks...we'll be more than glad to help if you find you need assitance in this area)

16. Rumpled or stained clothing: If interviewing late in the day, try to change to a fresh suit beforehand.

17. Scuffed or inappropriate footwear, including sneakers, stilettos, open-toed shoes and sandals (save the flip flops for the beach)

18. Strong aftershaves, perfumes or colognes: Many people are allergic to certain scents. For a subtle fragrance, use a good quality bath soap. (believe me...no one wants to remember you by the way you left their office smelling)

19. Belts and shoes that don't match: Shoes and belts should be made of leather or leather-like materials and the best colors for men are black or cordovan. (its kind of like the socks...they should match)

20. Telltale signs that your wearing a new suit. Remove all tags and extra buttons -- and remember to cut off the zigzag thread that keeps pockets and slits closed! ( oh geez...just make sure you look good!)Don't be a wardrobe malfunction waiting to happen. (Remember what happened to Janet Jackson??? Do I need to replay the event?) Plan and lay out what you're going to wear several days before the interview, so you'll have time to shop or get garments pressed and cleaned.Save "innovative" or revealing garb for the club (or your couch) and strive for crisp, clean and professional. Remember, you want the interviewer to be listening to what you're saying, not critiquing what you're wearing.

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