FROM COED CASUAL TO CORPORATE CHIC: Achieving a Professional Look - wardrobe for college graduates entering the job market - Brief Article

Ebony, Sept, 1999

IF you are what you wear, then the average college student is comfortable and on a fixed income. Indeed, the typical collegiate "uniform" consists of sweatshirts, T-shirts, jeans and sneakers. This relaxed attire may be the norm on campus, but out in the job market, young adults are expected to look professional and presentable. In many cases, the way you look can help you get hired.

A Wardrobe That Works

To begin your transformation from coed casual to corporate chic, the first step is to find out what professionals in your chosen field typically wear to work. Attending meetings of professional organizations is one way to determine appropriate attire. Informational interviews can also be helpful. Ask to speak briefly with someone in your field about recent industry trends and how he or she got started. While you are there, "Take note of how everyone in the office is dressed and what positions they hold," suggests Chicago fashion stylist Ira Staples.

When you're starting off in the workplace, the right clothing is an investment in your career. In general, you'll want to look your best, but you don't want to overdress. "If you have a closet full of flashy, trendy clothes, it's best to leave them at home," says Staples, who suggests wearing a nicely tailored, well-made suit that doesn't scream "fashion victim" when you walk in the door. "Everything you wear should be in good taste," adds Sam Hall, director of career services at Howard University. "Make sure the attention you're drawing to yourself is because of your resume and not your style of dress. Err on the side of traditional while on an interview. Once you've got the job, you can adjust your style according to what is acceptable in the office."

No matter what area of the country or the type of profession, "you can't go wrong with a blue interview suit," Hall insists. Dark colors, such as black, brown and charcoal also are appropriate. While skirt suits are an excellent choice for women, the appropriate length varies drastically, depending on region. "If you interview in New York or Los Angeles, you can get away with shorter skirts," says Hall. "In the conservative South and Midwest, a knee-length skirt is better."

Some women are choosing to wear classy, tailored pantsuits to interviews. The verdict is out on what most employers prefer--skirts or suits. But use your best judgment. While some traditional fields such as banking might be more rigid in their dress code, other fields such as advertising might have looser codes of dress as dictated by their creative profession.

Celebrate your shape with suits that flatter your physique, but don't wear anything "sexy" or otherwise inappropriate for the workplace. "Stay clear of open-toed shoes or cleavage-baring blouses," Hall advises.

"Hire Me" Hair

"There are less restrictions on hairstyles today than in years past," says Hall, "but it's best to keep it simple." Again, what you can get away with depends on the corporate environment. "Avoid anything that's `too'--too big, too colorful and too trendy," says Staples.

You want attention focused on your personality and your credentials, not your hair. So stay away from distracting 'dos and opt instead for chic simplicity.

Fuss-Free Makeup

Less is more when it comes to getting hired, says Staples. "You don't want to look like you're going to a nightclub," he cautions. Strive toward a "natural" look --neutral colors in a contemporary palette that enhance your best features. In general, a light foundation, basic blush, earth-toned eye shadow, mascara, thin line of eyeliner and conservative shade of lipstick will work for everyone.

If you need help to achieve this look, visit a makeup counter and have a professional artist give you a makeover. "Be sure to tell them you need a day-look for the office," says Staples. "Otherwise, you may end up with something too dramatic."

RELATED ARTICLE: A GUIDE TO CORPORATE CHIC

* ERR ON THE SIDE OF THE CONSERVATIVE. Classic styles are always in. You want attention focused on your credentials, not your clothes, shoes or hair.

* RULE OUT THE GUESS WORK. If you're wondering whether a certain outfit or 'do would be appropriate, ask for help. Attend meetings of professional organizations in your field or set up informational interviews with an executive in your chosen profession. Take note of how everyone is dressed. You can also consult college career counselors on proper interview attire.

* AVOID NOISY JEWELRY. An armful of bangles might be fine for a night on the town, but it's sure to annoy a potential employer. Stick with something simple like an elegant chain or necklace and earrings.

* A CLASSIC BLUE SUIT STILL MAKES A GOOD IMPRESSION. While the red "power suit" has been touted by some in recent years, darker colors are usually a safe choice. Along with blue, some experts say suits in other dark colors such as charcoal, chocolate and black are also appropriate.

* STAY AWAY FROM SEXY CLOTHES AND PUMPS. Avoid cleavage-baring blouses and open-toed shoes.