Dress to Impress
Look professional—first impressions count
You need to look polished and professional at career fairs, networking events, and interviews.
Business Casual
Business casual looks should remain polished, but usually allow for subtle ruffles, prints and cuts. It means no suit, but also no jeans.
Here's what to wear:
- Nice pants/slacks
- Skirts and dresses that are knee length when standing and thighs covered while seated
- Blazers and cardigans with flats, boots, or closed-toe shoes
- No jeans, shorts, sundresses, or athletic wear
- Ties optional
Business Professional
Most business professional styles include coordinated suits and skirts. Neutral and darker colors are more common; however, lighter colors can be appropriate in warmer seasons.
Here's what to wear:
- Mix and match suit jackets and pants/skirt in solid, dark or neutral colors
- Light colors can be worn underneath
- Keep patterns subtle
- Shoes should be closed-toe heels or dress shoes
Interview Attire
An interview outfit conveys a lot about your level of professionalism to the interviewer. Regardless of the work environment, it's important to dress professionally for a job interview.
Here's what to wear:
general recommendations
Since it's all about the first impression.
Clothes should be:
- Tailored
- In good condition
- Wrinkle & lint free
No flip-flops or dirty dress shoes.
Avoid the "messy" look.
- Well groomed hairstyle
- Natural nails & makeup
- Moderate jewelry with mild fragrance
- Straighten your tie
Don't smell like cigarette smoke.
Your professional look should be conservative but still show some of your own personality.
How to Dress for A Career fair
Go from class to the career fair in 30 seconds or less
Find jobs and internships in handshake
Explore our powerful career resource tool, designed to meet the needs of WVU students and alumni.
Why Are You Here?
- Ace the Lunch Interview
- Build a Resume
- Choose a Major
- Complete FOCUS2
- Craft an Elevator Pitch
- Create a Credential Packet
- Develop a Job Search Strategy
- Dress to Impress
- Evaluate Job Offers
- Explore Career Options
- Graduate School Advising
- How to Work a Career Fair
- Make the Most Out of Your Network
- Meet with a Career Development Specialist
- Prepare for an Interview
- Register for Career Exploration Courses
- Request a Professional Development Presentation
- Resume, Cover Letter and Personal Statement Review
- Write a Cover Letter/Thank You
- Write a Personal Statement
- Schedule a Practice Interview
- Upcoming Career Fairs and Events
- Meet the Staff
- Complete List of Our Services