Your portfolio is full of great stuff, your resume is polished to a T, but your dream job at that creative studio is still one interview away. What to wear? If you're looking to snag a job in publishing, advertising, music, art design, or something of that ilk, you're going to want to want to prove that you've got the discerning eye that's just right for the position. And even though what inside your head and books should prove your worth, make your interviewer's task a little easier by rocking an outfit that'll convince 'em you can dress for success. The same rules of professionalism still apply: Nothing too tight, short, sheer, or revealing, but you've got a little wiggle room in terms of creativity. Got an interview in a more strict environment? Check out our guide to what to wear to a corporate interview. Our rules to creative interview attire and some suggested looks, below!
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Above, clockwise from left: ASOS Boyfriend Blazer, $92.65, available at ASOS; Topshop Smudgy Heart Shift Dress, $90, available at Topshop; Dara Ettinger Chelsea Ring, $80, available at Urban Outfitters; Loeffler Randall Fifi Ankle Bootie, $625, available at Loeffler Randall.1. Mix in one professional item—Whether it's a blazer, a plain pencil skirt, or a pair of trousers, one smart piece will anchor the rest of your outfit together so it looks like you got dressed up to go to work, and not dressed up to go out.
Above, clockwise from left: Belle by Sigerson Morrison Cutout Suede Ankle Boots, $295, available at Saks Fifth Avenue; Fenton/Fallon for J. Crew Necklace, $225, available at J. Crew; Equipment Classic Blouse, $174, available at Revolve Clothing; LOFT Animal Spots Pencil Skirt, $69.50, available at LOFT.
Above, clockwise from left: Belle by Sigerson Morrison Cutout Suede Ankle Boots, $295, available at Saks Fifth Avenue; Fenton/Fallon for J. Crew Necklace, $225, available at J. Crew; Equipment Classic Blouse, $174, available at Revolve Clothing; LOFT Animal Spots Pencil Skirt, $69.50, available at LOFT.2. Opt for pattern—Though you don't have to dress yourself like a Magic Eye poster, choose to wear one colorfully patterned item so your palette isn't all neutrals and darks. It's a way to create a memorable impact without being distracting.
Above, clockwise from left: Deena & Ozzy Covered Stud Flap Satchel, $68, available at Urban Outfitters; Anthropologie Goldberg Bangle, $98, available at Anthropologie; Boy By Band of Outsiders Pleated Pant, $254.10, available at La Garconne; Repetto Ballerina Flat, $385, available at Opening Ceremony.3. Have fun with jewelry—Whether it's a great ring, a statement cuff, or a trendy necklace, amping up the look with a piece of jewelry is a way to show that you pay attention to the details.
Above, clockwise from left: Topshop Vanity Woven Satin Pumps, $50, available at Topshop; Theory Luala Dress, $325, available at Theory; KnT by Kova & T Striped Blouse, $68, available at Urban Outfitters; Cambridge Satchel Company Red Batchel, $128.97, available at Cambridge Satchel Company.4. Carry a satchel—If you carry a bag, carry a bag. Wimpy clutches and teeny shoulder purses look fussy, so keep your portfolio in a large satchel bag that you can also use for after you get the job!