Decoding the Dress Code

You are all set! Your resume has been revised, you printed everything on resume paper, you researched the companies you want to talk to, and you practiced your elevator speech. Or maybe you already went to the career fair, and now you have a job interview! It seems like you are ready to go…

But, what you are going to wear?

No need to fear, because we have you covered on dress codes for career fairs and so much more!

When attending a career fair, you can choose between dressing business professional or business casual; both of these are described more below. First impressions are extremely important and you want to make a good one by dressing appropriately. Be sure to research the organizations and industries you want to visit to learn more about their common dress codes as well.

Business Professional

In addition to career fairs, business professional is appropriate for interviews, formal networking events and some work environments.

·         Your attire should be professional, conservative and timeless.

·         Stick with suits that are dark colors, clean, tailored properly, ironed and stain-free.

·         Skirt suits need to be knee-length and we encourage wearing skin-toned pantyhose.

·         Shoes should be low-healed or flats for females, while for males, classic leather lace up and with socks that match your pants.

·         Be sure that your hair is neat and out of your face; use natural make-up and don’t overdo perfume or cologne.

Business Casual

This style is simply a relaxed version of business professional, but still emphasizes the professional. Most offices follow this dress code, that is appropriate for business functions, meetings and events. Be sure to always check with your employer first.

·         You can wear ties, blazers, jackets, cardigans, sweaters, blouses, button downs and polo shirts, just to name a few.

·         You can also wear dark or khaki pants, skirts, dresses and you can add in some color.

·         Utilize different pieces of your suit in order to complete a great business casual look.

Smart Casual

This style of dress will typically be explicitly mentioned and very common in more office work environments.

·         Once again, still professional by being polished and neat.

·         You can be more expressive with what you wear and dark jeans can be acceptable.

Casual

Casual dress will also clearly be mentioned when applicable. For example, some companies have Casual Fridays! This is what you would want to wear:

·         You can wear dark jeans, colorful sweaters, boots and loafers. Be expressive.

·         However, you should not wear sweat pants, yoga pants or shorts.

For every work environment or business event, you want to make sure you dress appropriately, so be sure to do your research and know what you should wear. You can reference this blog in the future--when your employer asks you to dress ‘business casual,’ you will know exactly what to wear!

Look your best, do your best, and be your absolute best!

If you ever have any questions about attire, stop by Smith Career Center and ask! We are happy to help. Drop by and pick up a copy of our Career Planning Guide to view the samples shared above and more tips for various kinds of dress, or visit our online Guide here.

Written by Samantha DiBiaso, Peer Career Advisor