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In this article, we share everything you need to know when it comes to fall formal interview outfits. From picking the perfect outfit to the perfect accessories, we share it all.
Picking Fall Formal Interview Outfits: The Ultimate Guide
When it comes to nailing fall formal interview outfits, the key is to portray professionalism, sophistication, and attention to detail. Unlike a casual interview setting where you can get by with looking more relaxed and showcasing your own personal style, formal interviews are a little more strict and therefore require outfits that are more straightforward, simple, and all business. And don’t forget, the outfit that you wear to your interview speaks volumes about you as a person, so it’s important to get this right!
The Ultimate Blazer Breakdown
The staple clothing item of any formal interview is hands down the blazer (or suit jacket) that you wear. After all, the suit jacket is the universal sign for professionalism – which is why bankers, lawyers, and even physicians at times opt for them. By choosing the right blazer, you will ensure that your look is polished and professional and that your interviewer takes you seriously.
Wool Blazers
- Why Wool? We love wool for the fall. Not only is it warm and durable, but it also is wrinkle-resistant, ensuring that you show up to your interview looking as polished as possible. Plus, wool blazers tend to come in a variety of weights, so you can choose one that provides the perfect amount of warmth depending on the weather that day.
- Where to Buy:
- J.Crew: This store is known for their high-quality and affordable blazers. Plus, some stores will even offer you tailoring for that perfect fit.
- Banana Republic: This store is known for their wide selection of colors and cuts, so you can find that perfect blazer to fit your silhouette.
- Brooks Brothers: This store is known for their classic cuts. Go here if you truly want a high quality but no frills suit jacket. Just note that these jackets tend to fit a bit more boxy versus form-fitting.
Tweed Blazers
- Why Tweed? Like wool, tweed is another great material choice for fall because it keeps you warm but also offers a unique textured look to add a little pizzazz to your look. It’s more fun than its wool sibling, but it still ensures you come off as serious and professional.
- Where to Buy:
- Ralph Lauren: This store is known for this material and does a really great job making beautifully tailored suits that fit nicely to any silhouette. Just know that they may be a bit pricer than your J Crews and Banana Republics.
- Nordstrom: This store offers a wide selection of tweed blazers from all kinds of brands. Go here if you want to peruse a bunch of options and if you want to protect your wallet.
- Harris Tweed: The name itself should give it away, but this store is particularly known for tweed. Go here if you want an authentic, high quality jacket that will last you years.
Structured Blazers
- Why Structured? A structured blazer – when paired with a slight padding in the shoulder – offers a really sharp, authoritative look that is perfect for a fall formal interview. This is the type of blazer that really gives off that professional and “down to business” look.
- Where to Buy:
- Theory: This store is known for their perfectly tailored blazers that are both comfortable and durable..
- Reiss: This store is known for more modern looks, and offers a really nice selection of sharp interview blazers.
- Hugo Boss: This store is known for luxury, and the quality does not disappoint. Though expensive, a blazer from here will last you years and will be sure to impress.
Picking the Right Shoes for Fall Formal Interview Outfits
Shoes play a big role in a well-thought out look. In the fall, it’s natural to want to reach for something comfortable and warm, but for a formal interview it’s also important that your shoes look sophisticated and elegant. Choosing the wrong shoe has the power to ruin an otherwise perfectly selected outfit.
Leather Pumps
- Why Leather Pumps? It’s a classic for a reason. Leather pumps are the embodiment of sophistication and class, and always do a good job dressing up an outfit. They are timeless, professional, and if you buy them in a neutral color they are pretty versatile. We recommend opting for ones with a mid-heel height – make sure you don’t go too high!
- Where to Buy:
- Cole Haan: This store is known for their classic, unassuming designs. If you want that perfect black pump that you can wear with everything, check this store out.
- Sam Edelman: This store is known for their wide variety of pumps, giving you a lot of options around the height and color.
- Stuart Weitzman: If you are looking to invest in a long-lasting, true luxury heel, this is the place to find it. Stuart Weitzman is known for creating the most beautiful shoes, and is often the go to place for celebrities and successful professionals.
Leather Loafers
- Why Leather Loafers? If you want to give off a really professional look but hate high heels, the loafer is a great alternative. It’s more comfortable, but still gives off that polished look you are looking to achieve in an interview.
- Where to Buy:
- Madewell: This sister store to JCrew is known for their high quality products, but at an affordable price. Anything you buy from here will surely be comfortable and last you a long time.
- Everlane: This store is known for their very simple designs, which makes all of their items really versatile and sophisticated looking.
- Gucci: This store became famous because of their loafers. Most people will recognize it if you wear it. It’s gorgeously designed, but just be prepared to spend a pretty penny for this one!
Ankle Boots
- Why Ankle Boots? For fall, leather ankle boots can be a lifesaver. That said, you just have to be really careful with a boot for a formal interview. Some are totally appropriate, but some can really make an outfit look casual. We recommend opting for very simple, clean designs with limited hardware and in black. .
- Where to Buy:
- Stuart Weitzman: As mentioned above, this store is definitely pricey, but the quality is unmatched and will surely impress.
- Aldo: This store provides more affordable options that are still high quality and well made.
Stay Warm with Classy Outerwear
In the fall (especially the later months), you are definitely going to need a coat. Your outerwear should always compliment your formal attire, and maintain that sophisticated look. It’s never a good idea to cover a perfectly selected formal outfit with a grungy un-polished coat. It’s important that each component plays off each other and provides a cohesive look.
Wool Coats
- Why Wool Coats? A wool coat is not only super warm, but it’s beautiful. It layers really nicely on top of a blazer jacket, and just offers an all around classy look.
- Where to Buy:
Trench Coats
- Why Trench Coats? This is a great option for earlier fall weeks or if it’s raining outside. The trench is a little more relaxed and moveable than a wool coat, but it still gives off the right amount of sophistication and professionalism that you are looking for with fall formal interview outfits.
- Where to Buy:
- London Fog: This brand is known for their durable and stylish trench coats, and surprisingly affordable prices.
- Michael Kors: This brand is known for their modern take on the classic trench coat. They offer multiple colors, and the belt makes the fit really flattering on any silhouette.
Cape Coats
- Why Cape Coats? If you are someone who likes to go a little against the grain and show a bit more personality in your look, this is a great option for you! It’s still super formal and sophisticated, but it offers a unique shape and fit that is sure to make a subtle statement.
- Where to Buy:
- Ralph Lauren: As mentioned, this store is known for their classic, beautifully constructed apparel. This cape coat from RL does not disappoint.
- BCBG: This store is known to make really feminine pieces that last a long time. This option from BCBG is definitely more out there but can definitely be styled for a more formal setting too.
A Great Bag: The Final Touch to Fall Formal Interview Outfits
The finishing touch to a flawlessly crafted fall formal interview outfit is always the bag. When choosing your bag, you should index on functionality and style, making sure it first serves its purpose but also nicely compliments your outfit.
Leather Totes
- Why Leather Totes? This is a classic choice for an interview (or work in general). It’s great because it fits a lot of things, looks really put together, and is versatile.
- Where to Buy:
Briefcase-Style Bags
- Why Briefcase-Style Bags? If you want to go for a more traditional, business-like look, a briefcase-style bag is the way to go. It’s functional, it’s classic, and it gets the job done. That said, that doesn’t mean it can’t be cute!
- Samsonite: This brand has been around for a long time, and for a good reason. Their products are timeless, and we love this particular piece with its modern flap and easy access to the inside compartments.
- Leatherology: As the name suggests, this brand is known for their high quality leather products. We love this cute piece – especially the rounded edges that give it that more feminine touch.
A Few Final Thoughts on Fall Formal Interview Outfits
To really nail fall formal interview outfits, you also have to pay attention to the fine details. Below are a few tips and tricks we will leave you with to ensure you make a lasting impression.
Minimal Jewelry
It’s a really good idea to keep your jewelry simple and minimal for your interview. A pair of stud earrings, a small understated necklace, and a simple watch are all you need. Try to avoid anything too flashy or distracting.
Professional Makeup and Grooming
It goes without saying, but your makeup is part of your look and it should enhance your features without being too bold. We recommend sticking to neutral tones (no red lipstick!) and avoiding sparkles or shimmer. Also, your hair should be neat, whether worn up or down.
Conclusion
For fall formal interviews, the way you dress plays a large role in how you are perceived. Unlike more relaxed and casual settings, these interviews require a more polished and traditional appearance, and require more attention to detail. This is why sticking to neutral colors, simple patterns, and classic pieces is usually the right call. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you will surely impress your interviewer and leave a lasting impression. Good luck!
If you enjoyed this article, be sure to check out our other article on Fall Casual Interview Outfits as well!
