The first impression is one of the most important parts of an interview. Your resume and cover letter may get you in the door, but your in-person meeting will be the make or break factor. Since we know that putting together a stylish and professional outfit doesn’t exactly come naturally to everyone, here are a few guidelines to follow when preparing for an interview.

Dress for the Job

You want to dress for the job that you are actually interviewing for; if you’re interviewing for a barista job at the new, hip coffee shop in town, you don’t need to show up in a business suit, but if you’re in a more professional setting, you’ll want to look the part.

Add Details

Add elements into your outfit that reflect specific traits that you can bring to the position. For instance, does the position require someone who is incredibly detail-oriented? Then maybe add in a few impeccable details to your look that will stand out, like a perfectly placed pin on your blouse or a pair of polished cufflinks. There’s one statement piece you can’t forgo: the statement watch. Everyone needs a staple timepiece—look punctual and polished in one easy step. Browse the selection of gold watches for men and women from MVMT to find something that complements your new office-worthy digs.

Wear a Blouse that Fits

If you’re opting for a blouse, keep it simple with a neutral option that fits well. Women often make the mistake of getting a blouse that’s too tight or too loose. Tight blouses can pull in the chest and make moving difficult, while loose blouses look baggy and unflattering. If you find it difficult to pick out the right blouse, purchase a larger size and get it tailored to fit you perfectly. Pair it with a sleek pencil skirt or ironed trousers to complete the look.

Add Shoes

Whether you choose to wear heels or flats, make sure your footwear is clean and polished. If you want to wear a pair of heels, make sure they’re not scuffed from your night out. Wear a pair that’s comfortable to walk in and won’t distract you while you wait for your interview. Nobody wants to think of pinched toes or blisters during their interview, so make sure your shoes are worn-in before the big day.

Wear Appropriate Makeup

Unless you’re interviewing for a fashion job, keep it simple with the makeup. Save the intense cat eye makeup and red lipstick for nighttime and go for a subtler look.  Stay away from distracting colors and wear neutral tones that accentuate your features. One simple way to keep your makeup from looking too dramatic is to apply it in the natural light. Hold a vanity mirror up to the window and apply your makeup accordingly.

Accessories

Keep your accessories understated. Choose a simple bracelet, stud earrings, and delicate necklace to pull your look together. If your outfit is neutral, choose accessories with a little more sparkle or color to give your look more interest.

Manicure

Your interviewer likely won’t be looking at your fingers with a magnifying glass, but nobody likes to see dirty nails. If you’ve been neglecting your nails, it may be time for a manicure. Go for neutral nudes, pinks, or even red for a pop of color. Your nails need more than color; they also need to be trimmed and filed.

Hair

Check your hair before your interview. Leaning your head against the car seat, a gust of wind, or fluffing your hair before an interview can lead strands astray. Bring a hair tie, hairspray, or bobby pins just in case you need a quick touch up.

Follow these style guidelines and you’ll pull off a cool, professional look sure to get you noticed for all the right reasons. Nail the first impression and walk in with confidence so you can land your job.

*Collaborative post.