Luxury Stretch High-Waist Skirt 

It’s that time of year once again. The flowers are blooming, the days are warmer and longer, and “Pomp & Circumstance” will be heard ringing out from campuses across the nation. This year will be different though, as the legions branch out in search of jobs to utilize those newly acquired degrees. With the worst economic downturn our country has seen since the Great Depression, not only will recent grads be competing with one another, they’ll be competing with the millions of people who are currently unemployed.

With such fierce competition, it’s important to stand out positively. And although there’s the old adage telling us not to judge a book by its cover, first impressions mean everything. That is why when it comes to interviewing, the most important thing you can do is walk into the room looking poised, confident and professional. However, professional dress doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style, and with so many options out there, you can still find a way to incorporate your personality into an interview ensemble. But do remember, subtlety is key and you don’t want to go overboard with overbearing prints, too-short hemlines or low-cut tops.

While suits are always a safe way to go, many experts say that suits are no longer a requirement for every job interview you go on, so long as you are put together and professional. A good tip is to research the company you’re interviewing with to find out their dress code, as this will give you a bit of a guide to what is appropriate for an interview. If a company is business casual, however, still dress up for the interview more than you would on an average work day.

If you do go with a suit, you don’t have to look frumpy and stiff, rather look for a suit with a couple of stylish touches. Incorporating color can be a great touch, but the best way to do so is with your blouse. Pick out a black, grey or navy suit as these are the most versatile, and you can easily change things up with blouses in different colors and simple prints.

Here are some ideas for cute, yet conservative interview outfits and pieces that are bound to leave a lasting impression.

You can go with a full or pencil skirt, a pair of wide leg trousers and a stylish blouse, belt, and cardigan for a fashionable, yet professional look.

Full Plated Skirt 

Short Sleeve Shirt - Double Stripe

Another great non-suit option is a faux two-piece dress topped off with a bolero jacket.

Tahari 3/4 - Sleeved Black Bolero Jacket

If a suit is necessary (which will oftentimes be the case), mix it up a little by going with one that has modern touches; asymmetrical cuts, three-quarter length sleeves, bolero jackets, one-button jackets, piping and subtle prints are all great ideas.

Vivienne Westwood - Grey Wool Asymmetric Suit

Karlee Textured Short Jacket

City Stretch Single Button Jacket

When it comes to shoes, sandals and open-toe shoes are a no-no, so your best bet is to go with some basic neutral colored heels (black, navy, grey or nude). You can give a little twist with a small peep-toe, sling backs, t-strap/mary janes or shoes with a bit of color piping on them.

Merona Mariela Buckle Pump

Mossimo Danae Peep-Toe Pumps

Mia Women’s Mabel T-Strap Pump

For all you accessory lovers out there, if you choose to wear jewelry, keep it basic and simple; a strand of pearls or a simple pendant and stud earrings are the way to go. Don’t wear large earrings, overwhelming necklaces or stacks of bangles. Nails and make-up should be simple as well.

When all is said and done, the most important thing to wear to an interview is a smile and an air of confidence. Be confident that you are the perfect candidate for the job and let your qualifications do the talking, not your outfit.