Acorn

Issue date: 2/27/06 Section: Arts & Leisure

How many of you have thought, �I sent my resume, chock-full of good stuff about me and all the years I spent schlepping at that God-forsaken job.

�I confirmed the date. I arranged transportation. I am meeting my cousin for lunch while I�m there.

�But what the hell am I going to wear to this huge interview?�

Believe me, honey, we�ve all been there.

But this time around there is no need to fret. The interview should be the thorny part of this process.

And your fine Drew education will take you that far.

Whether you are trying to get that prestigious part-time job at Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz, or an internship at Marie Claire magazine, you should dress professionally.

This doesn�t mean you have to wear a power suit and carry a black leather briefcase (although if you are completely stuck, that is a perfectly respectable ensemble).

Contrary to common misconceptions, it is possible to put together an outfit that reflects your personality for such an occasion.

There are a few things to think about when planning your outfit.

First of all, it�s this very idea: planning. I�m all about spontaneity, but when it comes to something this important, I like to be completely prepared.

About a week before the big day, check weather forecasts and transportation plans.

If you run into problems, such as rain, snow or a long commute, wear comfy shoes until you reach the building then slip on those heels and strut in with confidence.

Even if the Weather Channel is calling for sunshine and a high of 65 degrees, take the shoe-change route to avoid possible heel-breakage and foot pain.

You think I�m kidding � I think heels plan to break on our biggest days.

I swear it�s some sort of sadistic joke.

It�s a proven fact that if you are appropriately and professionally dressed, then the important man or woman on the other side of the desk will take you more seriously than your uninformed competitors.

Think about the message you want to send to a possible employer.

If a power suit walks in, it immediately screams, �Take me very, very seriously.�

This is a good option for those of you who can communicate volumes with your eyes.

A fierce glance matched with a black suit means you know and deserve what you want and you have worked hard to get it.

Don�t think you have to stick to the boring pants-and-jacket combo either. Mix it up.

Wear a crisp white blouse tucked into a sexy, demure pencil skirt with peep-toe pumps and a great watch.

Just because you know your stuff, doesn�t mean you have to �wear the pants� in the relationship.

I love the look of a sponged wool flounced skirt in navy for a look rooted in masculine power and graced with feminine touches.

If you are all smiles, try a printed skirt and v-neck cashmere sweater in a color that compliments your eyes.

Be sure to wear pointed-toe pumps � a heeled sandal will look too dainty for a serious interview.

Add a great pair of earrings and a big leather bag and off you go � ready to conquer the world one outfit at a time.

When you wear an outfit that says, �Look at me � I�m happy to be here, fun, professional and my extensive knowledge of (you fill in the blank) will make you hire me in a second.�

This look is especially great for plus-sized women.

Choose an A-line skirt, or one with soft pleats to balance your shape and give you those oh-so-glamorous curves we envy Marilyn Monroe and Sophia Loren for.

Don�t forget your pattern-proportion rule.

Little prints are for more petite women, and big prints work best on fuller women.

These are all-around safe options for any interview.

However, if you tend to be a bit more adventurous in your wardrobe choices, you do not need to change up your entire look, just tweak and play around a bit.

If you like the first look � a powerful statement � try a white suit.

Even if you plan to wear a blouse and skirt, wear a cream skirt with a black blouse.

The contrast is striking and according to designer Michael Kors, a dark top with a light bottom is the ultimate in classic-chic.

How can we not take the man�s advice? He�s the king of classic-chic.

If the weather just isn�t allowing for that perfectly springy printed skirt, try a suit with a printed silk blouse.

Find one with colors and a pattern that will enhance your eye color and skin tone, as well as make your look simply pop.

Now that your outfit is assembled, get all gussied up and walk in there with confidence, knowledge and poise.

Keep your makeup simple, but flawless, do your best to keep you blouse tucked into the back of your skirt and be sure to remember your future employer�s name.

Drew University doesn�t just prepare you to go out there and make a difference � it dresses you for the part, too!

Happy shopping.

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