Smart Casual
Many industry sectors are becoming more flexible about dress codes, often even encouraging a smart-casual look over the rigmarole of wearing a suit. Recruitment consultants Temps Online advise, "The smart-casual look allows you to create a professional image but also show your own personality and feel more confident in your appearance."
You still want to look smart, not sloppy, so a good approach is to start with the basics and then work the extras around that. Essentials include a good fitting pair of black trousers - boot-cut trousers that flare out slightly are great for most body shapes. Dress up with a shirt and smart scarf, or down with a T-shirt and a cardigan.
Another great basic is the classic white shirt. Simple doesn't need to be boring - it's all in the cut and there are high street options for every taste and body shape. Try a 3/4 length sleeve or a blouse with romantic frills or pleat detail. Starched cotton is super-smart, while floaty silk numbers are ultra-feminine and work well with more structured pencil skirts.
A versatile, feminine take on smart-casual is the wraparound jersey dress. These really flatter curvy hourglass shape
with big busts and anyone who wants to create curves. They are also a safe way to inject colour and pattern into your wardrobe. This type of dress works well with tights and knee-high boots or, in the summer, pretty flats. For those short of time, jersey rarely needs ironing.
Buying a Suit
A suit is a major investment but a good one if you work in a profession that requires you to look ultra-smart. Look for fabrics that will stand the test of time, as you want something that is going to last several years. Good wools with a small amount of stretch work well.
Suit Colours and Pinstripes
Black is back - but it can also be a bit boring. Midnight blue, sage green, navy and grey are all equally smart, slimming and modern. Pinstripes can give your body a more streamlined appearance - but if you're self-conscious about large thighs, make sure the fabric is loose enough to stop the stripe distorting and emphasising your curves. If you like pinstripes but don't want to draw attention to your legs, choose a wide-leg trouser that skims your thighs.
If you want to opt for a skirt, make sure it ends just below or just above the knee. Pencil skirts always look smart, if you like them, or go for an A-line style, which suits most body shapes.
Accessories
They are the perfect way to express some individuality in your job interview. Go for a pendant necklace (which will make your body look elongated if you want to look taller) or some chunky, bright beads balanced with a crisp white shirt.
A smart tote bag will hold everything you need for the interview but is more modern than a briefcase. If you have papers to keep in order, use a file or folder.
Shoes don't have to be boring - try kitten heels or a Mary-Jane style if you want a heel. Ballet flats are a work staple if you have to walk from a bus or train stop. Boots look great with a below-the-knee dress.
