Welcome to California California Home
Welcome to California - images of Golden Gate Bridge, ocean sunset, waterfall, flowers, and city skyline.
EDD Home
LaborMarketInfo Home
WorkSmart Home
Contact Us
WorkSmart en español
WorkSmart Topics:
Getting Job Ready
 Appearance
 Attitude & Commitment
 Child Care
 Time Planning
 Transportation
Job Titles
How to Find a Job
Tips for Success
WorkSmart! Fact Sheet
 WorkSmart Logo

   My CA
 Getting Job Ready -- Appearance
                      What To Wear           Do NOT Wear

 Take time to look your best!
Your appearance will make a lasting impression. Even if you are only going to pick up forms or drop off an application, dress in clothing that is suitable for the type of job you are seeking.

 Man adjusting tie in bathroom mirror with boy brushing teeth.
    Review this checklist:
  • Get a good night's sleep the night before
  • Freshen up with a shower or bath
  • Shave or trim facial hair
  • Hair should be clean and well groomed
  • Brush your teeth and use a mouthwash
  • Do not wear perfumes or aftershave
  • Makeup and jewelry should be simple and kept to a minimum
  • Wear clean, neat clothing
  • Wear socks or stocking with shoes
  • Shine dress shoes or heels

Page Down Link to page down

What To Wear

Dressing in a businesslike manner will help you make a good impression at your interview. For most interviews, a suit is appropriate for both men and women. If you do not have appropriate clothing, most communities have "clothes closets" where you can choose a proper outfit. Discount stores also provide many choices. Your clothes do not need to be expensive, just neat and clean. Review the list of examples of appropriate clothing:

 Man wearing a suit jacket over a turtle-neck.

    Men
  • Suit
  • Slacks and dress shirt
  • Tie, if appropriate
 woman wearing a black jacket over a black top
    Women
  • Suit
  • Slacks and blouse
  • Blouse and skirt (at least knee-length)
  • Dress


Do NOT Wear

Casual wear is not appropriate for interviews. Clothes that are too dressy or revealing should not be worn either. Once you are on the job, you will be able to judge the types of clothes that fit the work environment. Many employers have "dress down" days, when wearing casual clothing is acceptable. Otherwise, you should be in "professional" clothes. The list below provides examples of inappropriate interview clothing:


man in slacks and sandals

  • Jeans
  • Tight clothing
  • Sweatsuits
  • Baseball caps
  • T-shirts
  • Tank tops
  • Shorts
  • Flip-flops or beach shoes
  • Sandals
  • Tennis shoes
  • Party clothes

woman with blue, spiked hair style

Back to Top of Page

© 2007 State of California

Conditions of Use  |   Privacy Policy