third

third

I hate skirt suits. I do not own a single one. I know they are considered standard for female professionals, but I went through OCI and callbacks a few years back with only pants suits and got plenty of offers, so it can be done.

Grey suits are fine for women, as are shells (tasteful, non-100% cotton shirts that are not button-downs).

Looking professional is easy for the candidate (but not necessarily easy for the interviewer(s)). Acting professional is the challenge for both the candidate and the interviewer(s).

Also, be sure to floss before going into your interview.

What are all of your thoughts with respect to sportier/more fashionable suits for men at law firms generall (i.e. a slim italian cut, perhaps with nice, not-so-conservative shoes)?

i'm tired. 0.3 billed so far today. please put something more interesting up here that i can waste time on. i'm totally uninterested in what suits law students should wear.

Men, you need a dark suit (though, not black), pin stripes are fine, though can be risky if they give off that investment banker feel (this is fine for the office generally, but not the interview). White or blue shirt, and conservative tie (blue, red, maroon are best). The simple truth is that you never know what any person may think of an "interesting" suit, tie, shoe, etc choice and you're better off not letting your clothes stand out at all.

That said, even if you can't afford a nice suit, at least get some tailoring done to whatever suit you do wear. You don't want it to be too large, which is a likely problem if you buy something off the rack without any alterations.

Suck it up and conform for your interview. Suit should be solid, light pinstripe or windowpane in medium to dark gray (blue is for chumps, black is for funerals). Three buttons are ok, double breasted or super pointy lapels are not. Simple patterned tie (buy a new one) knotted properly and matched with a solid white or pale blue shirt (no buttondown, french cuffs, or weird collars). Belt and shoes should match - black or cordovan, lace-ups not loafers, no boxy toes. That is all.

I'm female and I always wear a pantsuit to interviews. I figure if someone is so old fashioned that they expect girls to wear skirts, I probably don't want to work for them...

7 - Anything that will make you stick out in a way that may suggest that you are different from the team should be avoided.

Oh yeah, it's called work because that is what you are there to do. be as conservative as your money, or lack there of, provides for. Though, I can co-sign your choice of suit, you are totally alone on the shoes.

Suggestion, just buy a pair of conservative loafers, or oxfords and call it a day. We here at ATL will roast your buns for hours, if the reason you failed to land that dream job was the result of your poor choice in footware.

Women should ensure that their button down shirts are not "gaping" between the buttons. If you have this problem either buy a bigger shirt or invest in some fabric tape (i.e. Hollywood tape @ Bed Bath & Beyond) to take care of the problem. Don't use a safety pin, it looks ridiculous.

Women should ensure that their button down shirts are not "gaping" between the buttons. If you have this problem either buy a bigger shirt or invest in some fabric tape (i.e. Hollywood tape @ Bed Bath & Beyond) to take care of the problem. Don't use a safety pin, it looks ridiculous.

I don't have a problem with pantsuits for women. Though, I'm always surprised at how many women really hate wearing them.

Women should ensure that their button down shirts are not "gaping" between the buttons. If you have this problem either buy a bigger shirt or invest in some fabric tape (i.e. Hollywood tape @ Bed Bath & Beyond) to take care of the problem. Don't use a safety pin, it looks ridiculous.

Leave the pocket square at home.

By "hate wearing them" I was referring to skirts.

I'm a man and I only wear skirt suits, to reflect my Scottish heritage.

number 4 is a bull dyke. i love my skirt suits.

11, have you seen this economy? You want to work for anyone...

i hear ya, 8, though i have billed a whopping .5. what is up with all this law student focus lately? also, agreed 11 - there is nothing wrong with a pantsuit and any asshat who thinks otherwise is not someone i'd want to spend my days with.

pantsuit is for chicks who have man haircuts -

Seersuckers are totally appropriate for most job interviews.

I love corporette, such useful advice

And learn to tie a full Windsor with a good dimple for God's sake (this goes for interviewers too). I see a lot of bad knots out there.

The data on visitors to the site must have shown that 90% are students. Does it seem like almost all the posts now are targeted that way? Can we rename the site "Above Your Law School"?

9, were you possibly the Marquis de Sade in your former life?

For an interview, gentlemen should wear their most conservative and subdued codpiece--a simple, but tasteful, burnished leather is appropriate. Once you are hired you can break out the velvet and satin ones, and if you ever make partner, bejeweled codpieces are not only acceptable, but expected.

Three button suits? What is this, 1997?

omg - what is wrong with 7. only a douche rocket with his heart set on a TTT firm would wear an italian cut suit or non- loafer style shoes. dress like a lawyer. Save the gay ass club wear for the weekends.

For men: dark brown suits are preferred, really anything other than black is acceptable. no need to get anything more expensive than brooks brothers
white or blue shirts only
silver or leather business card holders
no jewelry, facial hair is questionable but probably should be avoided

Don't leave the pocket hankie at home.

Do not scrimp--if you can swing Armani, go for it.

Do French cuffs, white shirt.

Hermes tie.

Brown lace-up shoes.

Brown gator belt.

Hint: Neiman Marcus has a personal shopping department that costs nothing for a consultation/appointment.

You will get professional advise on the right look from the same people who dress the managing partners and their wives. The clothes will be in a dressing room when you arrive. You can select, fit, and be gone in half an hour.

Be advised though, NM takes only Amex, check, or NM account as payment.

10 got it 99% right, but I don't think anyone would get dinged for choosing a button-down collar over a straight collar. And I would recommend the half-windsor knot over the four-in-hand. Not that it makes a difference in the end, it just looks better.

Law students are becoming way too obsessed with interviewing. There are even websites where students can pay attorneys to review their resumes or tweak their interviewing skills like www.ociadvantage.com Back in my day, we'd just talk to people. But I guess I'm dated, since I'm saying back in my day.

Law students are becoming way too obsessed with interviewing. There are even websites where students can pay attorneys to review their resumes or tweak their interviewing skills like www.ociadvantage.com Back in my day, we'd just talk to people. But I guess I'm dated, since I'm saying back in my day.

If you can't figure out how to dress for a job interview with a law firm, you should cease pursuing a career in the law.

That said, for the grown-ups here, any opinions on Joseph A. Banks suits? I know they are far from fashion leaders, but their prices are unbeatable and the rags look decent enough for day-to-day stuff (good cloth, decent cut if you have a decent build). Supporters? Dectractors?

wtf? Black suit??? lol

French blue shirts with a white tabbed collar are a must. Don't forget to use a tie pin right underneath.

Please stop the blatant scorn for law students. We are here to add, not take. Besides, who is going to drink the fine spirits that your firm routinely has available at their socials?

Don't worry, we will be colleagues soon, or maybe not if you don't get to billing some decent hours.

One simple rule: Your attire should be unremarkable and easily forgotten by the interviewer. Anything ill-fitting, sloppy, prissy, or outside typical business garb should be avoided. Similarly, if you're not used to wearing a suit, practice and get used to it before your interview. Nothing says "I don't belong at your firm" like somebody looking completely uncomfortabel in business attire.

Seersuckers are not even appropriate for the office. You might as well be wearing a shirt that has "kick my ass" printed on the front.

UVA students with bow-ties need not apply.

Dudes:

Suit: navy or grey (light pinstripes are ok).
Shirt: light blue or white (avoid french cuffs. A button collar is technically incorrect but likely no big deal)
Shoes: black or cordovan (match them with your belt. Cap-toe laceups are best, but a conservative, professional loafer will probably work fine).
Tie: something traditional and professional (repp ties work well; conservative patterns and colors are fine).

Basically: look like someone the firm would want to have walking around the office and (potentially) representing the firm to outsiders (i.e. clients)

Thats really all there is to it.

Seersucker if you are south of the Mason-Dixon line is perfectly acceptable.

At my law school in the South they instructed us to ONLY wear skirts to interviews. As a practicing litigator in NYC, I think that a pant suit is the ONLY way to go for women. Why would I wear a skirt? I look like a woman, I don't need to wear a skirt to prove it. Also, since when did the Taliban start giving advice on interviewing?

Can we all agree that the only shoes any guy should wear at an interview are Allen Edmonds? No Nunn Bush, please. As a general rule, shoes should cost 50% of what the suit costs, ie, shoes should be at least $425.

10 here, thanks 35. I just think buttondown collars don't work well with ties and are better paired with a sport coat.

Shine your shoes for shit's sake.

Although I think it's ridiculous that adults need to be told how to dress for a law firm interview, I have seen too many women wearing tight, low-cut shirts or inappropriate shoes (open-toed sandals, platform shoes with heels over 3 inches, even knee high boots). A basic rule for a woman when picking an interview suit is that if you look attractive in it, it's probably the wrong one to wear.

37:

I've got a couple of Jos Bank Signature Gold suits. They're actually pretty nice, as long as you get them tailored somewhere else. Watch for their sales: you can usually get them for 400-500. They're nothing amazing, but they're fine for daily officewear. That said, their signature suits are pretty terrible. I've heard their Joseph line is nice and a slightly trimmer cut, but I dont have any of those.

42 = idiot

45 = man who has a sense of propriety

Go to the K&G in Harlem - I bought my suit there for under $200 and got offers from all my firms.

Lesson: don't obsess about this crap. Be an adult, look decent, and that's that.

I think we need Divljan Shatterhand Steele on here to give some Croatian tie-tying lessons.

Haha, 20 if you want to think so, that's cool with me, but you're way off. Anyhow, my problem with wearing skirt suits is that I tend to think when young females wear them, they look like they are playing dress-up. Same with librarian glasses... no offense to those who wear them. So it's really just a matter of personal preference- I actually don't mind skirt suits on older women because they have more of a respectable air about them...

UVA students just need to keep poppin dem collars and rockin the madras shorts and they will be fine. As for everyone else, dark gray suit.

A pressed suit, any dark color (black, charcoal, navy, gray, dark brown). White or light blue shirt, preferably not a button-down collar (you generally don't wear those when you're wearing a jacket and tie). Just about any degree of red or blue striped tie is acceptable. Black belt and shoes with black, gray, or charcoal suits. Dark brown belt and shoes with navy or dark brown suit. No pocket square. Get a haircut (a real haircut, not the $10 Supercut) a few days before OCI. Shine your shoes. Carefully shave every day of OCI. If you wear cologne, do so sparingly. Bring a leather portfolio with extra resumes and a pad of paper, the color of the portfolio should match the color of your shoes/belt.

That's about all I can think of for fashion tips. When in doubt, choose the most conservative option available.

Jos A. Banks suits are fine for everyday wear, though their Gold collection is the best. On a sale, they are very reasonable. Brooks Brothers suits are also great, but you'd be hard pressed to get a deal on one. that said, the Brooks Brothers suit will last longer than the Jos. Banks suit and still look great.

Dear 39: You forgot renting a gold/diamond Rolex and wearing a CZ or diamond pinky ring and dark glasses for the interview. Do use the expression "badda-bing" whenever possible.

Guys:
Tweed or seersucker suit
Bowtie
White buckskin loafers

Girls:
Turtlenecks
Stilettos
Earrings with your name written in gold letters

47 - if you want to spend good money on shoes and sound like you actually know what the f you are talking about, then you would say ferragamo or bally (more comfortable than ferragamo).

10's got it right.

47's a useless douchebag.

33 = P. Diddy

Buttondown collars are not to be worn with a tie - they're technically business casual and not appropriate (the buttondown was developed to be worn during athletic activity, back in the olden days when people apparently wore nicer clothes to workout than they do today).

French cuffs are fine, but just make sure that your cufflinks aren't too flashy.

Really, the key is to make sure your suit fits right. Too baggy and you end up looking like a shlub. Too tight and you will be uncomfotable. It's amazing the difference a well-tailored suit can make, so don't skimp on alterations.

And on shoes, I've heard some people say that they never notice, and others say it's the first thing they notice. I think I fall into the latter camp - at the very least, make sure your shoes are very well polished, and don't be afraid to invest in a really good pair. I used to go to DSW and pay no more than $79 for a pair of shoes, and they were okay, but the $200+ pairs you get at some of the nicer stores are worth every penny in quality, style and appearance.

Guys, if you can afford it, buy Ecco shoes. Much more comfortable than Cole Haan and they look just as good. Avoid Johnston & Murphy like the plague. If your shoes have an Italian name, you spent too much.

Always go in with a suit that you feel confident in and that makes you look as attractive as you possibly can.

37: Jos. A Banks Signature Gold suits are a good value. Don't pay more than $500 (they are almost always on sale).

One should never wear a button down collar with a suit. Button down collars are casual, and you're trying to look professional.

I agree that one shouldn't wear a black suit during an interview, but you guys are idiots. Black suits look great. The reason black suits were historically frowned upon isn't because they look like funeral suits, it's because they (like colored shirts with white collars) were symbols of success. It was seen as presumptuous to wear a black suit unless you had "made it." In fact, a friend of mine recently wore a black suit to work (investment banking), and his boss called him into the office and said, "Don't wear a black suit. You look like you know what you're doing."

Anyone else here shop at Hot Topic for interview clothes?

The talk about spending a lot of money on shoes, etc is off the point. While spending more will get you better quality and comfort, you have a relatively short amount of time to make any real impression on anyone and the clothes will not get you the job. All you need to do, as is pointed out already, is make sure you look well put together and that your clothes are not memorable (read: conservative).

Interviewers know that law students aren't wealthy and don't expect them to dress like they are. When you land the job, then take some of the money during the summer and invest in some high quality clothes.

"Black belt and shoes with black, gray, or charcoal suits. Dark brown belt and shoes with navy or dark brown suit. "

Agree this is one of the biggest errors I see and the first thing to eliminate a candidate. Black belt/shoes are for charcoal or black suits. If you wear navy suit, brown or reddish brown shoes/belt are a must. If you can't get this simple detail right, how can I trust you with anything else? And if you bother wearing anything other than a red or blue tie, let's just call the interview off.

Kudos to anyone who goes to a V10 interview at a NY office wearing a seersucker.

Guys, don't blow $425 on shoes just for an interview. As long as the colors are appropriate and they are buffed to high shine, no one will know the difference.

Agreed. Seersucker suits = begging to have your ass stomped similar to the reaction UVA students get when they leave Virginia.

whats with all the female skirt suit haters today? skirt suits definitely look better than those pant suit, and at the end of the day thats what you care about and thats whats important. and dont go giving me the whole "i dont care what people think i just want to be comfortable" thing...

Dear 53:

You were hired dispite the suit, which is a testament to your resume and interviewing skills, and not the virtues of the $200 suit.

A person not yet into clothes cannot tell the difference, but I assure you that to a person who has been wearing Armani or better for a while you will stick out like a sore thumb.

Remember, people are conditioned to respond to clothing. If you look like a top candidate, you will be perceived as one.

Look professional and like you give a damn. The only way clothing is going to ding you on OCI is if you clearly don't know how to dress for a business environment. That means a suit that a professional would wear, worn like one a professional would wear.

I personally don't like black suits unless you are Asian or doing business in Asia, but it's not something that's really going to hurt you. Black suits are for mourning, though. If you don't already own one, there certainly is no reason to go buy one for OCI.

Two-button/three-button, half-windsor/full windsor, grey/navy, (mild) pinstripes/no pinstripes, off-white shirt/white shirt...none of that matters.

The only things that I can think of that will burn someone:

1. Fashion statement. You should know what these are (bright blue suit, etc.) Don't wear this crap.

2. Blinding pinstripes. See above. Also, it's distracting.

3. Blue shirts with anything other than a grey suit.

4. Single Female Lawyer wear. If it says *anything* about your breasts or legs...DON'T WEAR IT.

5. Dirty/rumpled suit or shirt. You don't give a crap about looking good for an interview for a position that will pay you six-figure starting money. If it's not late in the day, this is inexcusable.

6. Los Angeles collar (top button open, no tie).

if you have the school and grades, you should dress forgettably. Your main task is not to stand out or screw up. If you're from a TTT and/or low grades, you should try to stand out a little more. It will tell the interviewer that you may not be a genius, but at least you have some personality. And skirt suits and "gaping" are very hot and should be employed if at every interview.

64, you're half right. Button down collars were worn during POLO, not during just any athletic activity. The collars would keep hitting the players in the face and obstructing their view, so they put buttons on them.

Maybe get your facts straight before trying to sound learned.

76 - I got by with Joseph A. Bank suits in my interviews and I'm not 53. Sure, looking the part is good, but there's something visually jarring about a supposedly poor law student walking into an interview with a suit as nice or nicer than the interviewers'.

Fit in with the look of the firm's region. e.g., DC should err on the more preppy side, NYC on the more "fashion" side.

#71--obviously you have not worked with any Marine Corps vets.

And skirts should be worn short - not Ally McBeal short, but short.

47 will be stuck in biglaw his entire life to pay for his $400 shoe habit.

Black suits are fine if you're Hasidic.

Here's what I'm wearing right now:

1. $50 Nunn Bush shoes. They're brown, without laces. I bought them at a discount.

2. Black socks. When seen in broad daylight, they have a thin yellow "racing stripe" for flair.

3. Dark blue pants. (Self-explanatory.) They're wrinkle-free.

4. White seersucker polo shirt. It has a collar.

5. Hip dark-rimmed glasses. They make me look more professional.

Any thoughts?

How should a cute white girl with an asian guy fetish dress for interviews?

"no boxy toes."

Disagree; pointed and square toed both fine. If your shoe size is 13+, consider a square toe. No buckle on shoe, pilgrim. If you have a large head, use a windsor knot. Also, a black suit is fine, but please keep the shirt white and the tie a strong solid (red and non-navy blue safest) to avoid funeral look with black suit.

You're just trying to tease me, aren't you 87?

- WGWAG

85, can hasidim wear their side-curls out and going down the side of their face?

Jos. A. Banks is the worst suit maker known to man. I was once conned into buying two suits there based on the price (something like $200 per suit). I thought that the suits would be a steal at that price even if they weren't the finest suits out there. I was wrong -- the suits are made of the coarsest paper-thin material. My suit had threads unravel only two weeks after I bought it. Additionally, the tailor at the store I went to (the one in downtown DC) was terrible. The suit ended up being tailored for a shorter, fatter man. Just a terrible experience all around.

I buy almost exclusively at Brooks Brothers now as I've found the added expense to be well worth it.

Can I wear a skort suit instead of a pant suit and not be mocked by my peers?

Slightly obese 5'5 law student from Iowa

34 here. Several observations.

Windsor knots are too big in most situations.

I never wear button-down collars with ties, but I know a lot of men that do.

I strongly recommend against loafers. You're not trying to look like Andy Bernard.

Burgundy/cordovan or brown shoes are not required for blue suits. Black goes fine with blue. Burgundy/cordovan are quite rare these days and are far less useful than brown and black. You can dress up or dress down some brown and black shoes (such as bicycle toe), but you can't dress down cordovan.

I highly recommend Allen Edmonds shoes. Not necessary but a great product and will last you a long time. You can get them for under $250 and sometimes on sale at Nordstrom for even less.

And BTW when I grew up I never heard the phrase "light pin stripe". If by that you mean a stripe that is not as prominent/defined, I always thought the proper term was "chalk stripe".

Jos. A Bank Suits?? Are you people serious?

Why not just go to JC Penny and get a suit?

Unless you are a TTT lawyer, at a minimum, your suits should come from Brooks Brothers. This is if you are a law student or recent grad, your standards are much higher if you have been out for a while.

93: I'm wearing loafers right now. Oh, man. This is so embarrassing.

People should be nicer to law students from Iowa.

i prefer skirt suits to pant suits when i am interviewing. it's not that i feel i look better in either one, but i feel very much more aware of what i'm wearing and the kind of attitude i want to portray. in a skirt i sit more lady-like, and have to sit up straight and really think about my shoes.

i'd also like to point out that i fucking detest the material women's suit pants are usually made of--the sort of silky drapey material that clings weirdly. i don't want to feel like i'm wearing pajama pants and it's hard to find a summer suit with a more structured material for the pants. therefore, skirt more comfortable and flattering.

95 here. Seriously, these comments make me want to go down the street and restructure my entire sartorial habits. I've been making a fool of myself and I didn't even know it.

And all this time I've been calling her Crandall!

Every year some topic like this comes up, and I am continually confused as to why this is the case. If you're a guy just wear a black or navy suit and a normal solid color shirt. There aren't any variations of that kind of outfit that's going to earn you any points with employers. All you're doing is risking looking like a clown. Just keep it simple. Not a very challenging concept.

Why no French cuffs? Just curious, as a couple of people have mentioned them, and I rather like them.

The answer is Brooks Brothers. Relatively cheap but they always fit right. Ties are always appropriate.

My thing is blue ties. Red and maroon seem desperate to me. Blue is conservative but also conversational and cool.

Brooks Brothers is not relatively cheap for most law students. I think we all have to remember that law students are not yet making what we make in Biglaw.

Women should simply dress like the secretaries in Mad Men, go home and cook delicious feasts for their husbands.

So more or less good advice on here but a few points...

Guys:
You don't need to have dark brown shoes with a dark navy suit. Black looks just fine. Half the people who try to wear brown shoes pick something that is just hideous that gets noticed in a bad way. Nobody will ding you for wearing black shoes with a navy suit. You will lose points if your hip brown shoes stand out and look too fashionable.

The whole button down collar debate (which has occurred on here so many times it is getting kind of hilarious). I don't think that there is anything wrong them but for some reason some people have a hate of them (I think all of these people are in NYC based on the number of old partners that wear suits with button down collar shirts in Chicago). I think the safest thing to do is to avoid them. However, if your choice is between a basic button down Brooks Brother shirt and some flashy Italian shirt with sheen, french cuffs, or an off color collar then for the love of good wear the button down. Avoid anything that is flashy or Italian.

More on shoes, squared toes are fine for day to day and I probably wear something on the more square side most days when I am in business casual (i.e. slacks and a button down). However, I would never wear them to an interview. Still the most important thing about shoes (as has been mentioned above) is not how much they cost but they have been shined. I am a firm believer that every man should know how and shine his own shoes. But if you don't know how (or don't have the supplies) please get them shined. At callbacks this is easy since most big office buildings have a shoe shine guy downstairs. Just get to your interview early.

Girls:
Wear skirt suits. They always look nicer. You are going to be interviewing with guys (mostly, probably). We like girls in skirts. Yes this might be old-fashioned, misogynistic, whatever. I don't care. You still look nicer in a skirt. I like you more when you wear a skirt. I'm sorry, I just can't help it.

Do look professional but also look nice. And you look nicer when you wear a skirt. Sorry.

I echo comments on grey/navy suits, but simply note that a light pattern should work as well -- for example, a gray herringbone would be OK. Alterations are important. If you're a law student, you can get a good starter suit at Men's Wearhouse. (true!) They tend to have a big sale at the end of the year -- too late for the 2Ls but maybe early enough for some 1L interviews.

shoes....Johnston & Murphy is good. I don't understand the prior hater.

86: you excite me. Normally I have to pay money to have someone tell me what they're wearing.

Can anyone explain the difference between a blazer and a suit?

Any thoughts on suits for a clerkship? I got by with 2-3 suits for interviews (tracked who had seen what at OCI and wore something else on callbacks) but need to wear a suit daily starting in a few weeks. 2 buttons or 3 buttons is stylish right now for a 20something? Colors? Rear-venting?

Thanks in advance...

107: you have to wear a suit everyday for your clerkship? That's dumb; my judge wanted one only for when I needed to be in court (which, at the court of appeals, was only rarely for argument).

What about regressive sartorial conundrum that most UVA students find themselves in?

I can't shine my loafers. Is this an issue? Or are loafers exempt from the "shine" rule?

Blazers are stand-alone pieces that do not match the pants you are wearing, as in they are not the same color. If you have seen someone wearing a navy blue jacket with khakis, that is a blazer. Same for a black jacket with grey pants, etc.

Not acceptable for interviews, but can be a cool look to throw in if you are going somewhere that you feel merits more than business casual but not a suit. Also can be part of the rotation in a business casual office if you don't overdo it.

111: are you kidding me? If that's the case, then I don't even own a suit. I thought that a "suit" was the upper part, like a tuxedo.

In regard to shoe colors, here's the deal. A brown shoe may be worn with any color suit. A black shoe can be worn with any color business suit except brown. And I stress the word except.

There is a danger to overdoing it, I think, at an interview. I'd steer clear of Brioni or Oxxfords.

Stick with upper tier, but not elite suits. I'd go Canali... Its fashionable, respected, but doesn't scream "better than you."

Save the Brionni for your first deposition...

112 -

I can't tell if you are kidding or not, but at the risk of falling for your flame....a two-piece suit is a matching (same material, pattern, color) jacket and pants, purchased as a set. A three-piece suit is the foregoing plus a vest, purchased as part of the same set.

Three kinds of topics boast large amounts of replies on ATL. Pay raises, layoffs, and fashion advice. I don't get it.

107 - You actually thought the firms would remember what suit you wore to OCI? Chances are they did not remember your face from your OCI interview...

People, RELAX. No one cares about the expensiveness of your suit. As long as it fits, matches, and does not have any stains, you should be fine. The people who do care are the asshat associates who think they are tough sh*t because they work in biglaw (which is not all of them; though, they may all be in NYC). Even those terds will not be able to tell the difference between your off the rack Macys suit and something 10Xs more expensive (unless, of course, they go in for a hug because they haven't had any personal contact in a long time).

I echo the comment about ecco shoes. They're awesome for the $.

If you spend a ton of money on interview clothes you are most certainly going to feel like a jackass when you realize BIGLAW lawyers are among the most poorly-dressed professionals around.

Amen to #46!! I'm a grad from a top-6 law school, and from what I've seen both clerking and in private practice, most female lawyers wear pants suits. It's now the industry norm. Personally, I wear both styles.

And, frankly, with the way that pants and jackets are cut these days (if you're shopping in the right stores, like Nordstrom or Bloomies), you can easily still look trendy, feminine and attractive (even sexy) in a pants suit. My husband agrees.

I would have this advice to give to the rich and/or stupid law students, particularly the gentlement. You don't want to wear a suit that cost significantly more money than the ones the interviewers are wearing. Of course, you want to look well put together and professional (say, Brooks Brothers quality, for guys). But if you've spent major G's on a suit, it's obvious. And it's a distraction.

You look either ridiculously desperate to impress people that you've taken out loans to pay for an over-the-top suit. Or, that you're rich and also lack judgment on what is appropriate to wear to an interview as a student. You at least want to appear as though you NEED the job. Don't make me ask you to pay for lunch.

Oh, and same goes for the shoes.

Not sure if anyone else has said this and I really don't care. Men, if you wear a suit with more than two buttons, you're a tool. Your interviewer won't care and you probably don't want to work there if he does, but you will look like a complete tool. Oh yeah, and there is absolutely no situation where a black suit is acceptable.

To 104 ("I like you more when you wear a skirt."):

Please tell me what firm you work for so I know to skip the interview or pass on a call back.

If your school posts who your interviewer(s) is in advance, it can help pick out your outfit as well. Older male partners = most conservative clothes in closet. Younger attorneys or females allowed some careful, stylish, risks. Had good enough results with both...

Can one get by with a cotton suit for interviews? What if I told you I live in Phoenix?

Hi,

I am in the bottom half of my class at Touro and wondering what I should wear to my Wachtell, Cravath and DPW interviews?

I have a green sharkskin suit that I was thinking of combining with a pale yellow shirt, purple tie, and white shoes?

Thoughts?

115 - Not that anyone should dare wear a three-piece suit to an interview. Or to anything other than a cocktail bar where you're trying to look like a serious Wall Street gangster.

107 - You have to wear a suit around chambers?

Most people should wear two-buttons. If someone has a very athletic build, i.e. 42+ shoulders and a <34 waist, they can wear a three-button really well and often make it look like it cost more than it did.

121: Yesterday, I wore a black suit with three buttons! Oh, the horror. The humanity!

115 - Not that anyone should dare wear a three-piece suit to an interview. Or to anything other than a cocktail bar where you're trying to look like a serious Wall Street gangster.

107 - You have to wear a suit around chambers?

Most people should wear two-buttons. If someone has a very athletic build, i.e. 42+ shoulders and a <34 waist, they can wear a three-button really well and often make it look like it cost more than it did.

125: based on what you've said about yourself, Cravath will offer no matter what you wear...so, do what feels right.

115 - Not that anyone should dare wear a three-piece suit to an interview. Or to anything other than a cocktail bar where you're trying to look like a serious Wall Street gangster.

107 - You have to wear a suit around chambers?

Most people should wear two-buttons. If someone has a very athletic build, i.e. 42+ shoulders and a <34 waist, they can wear a three-button really well and often make it look like it cost more than it did.

58 is completely wrong about the cologne. If you need something to cover your scent - whether at an interview or once you have an actual job - you're not showering well enough. You will not get a callback from me.

Skort suit, tube top, slippers. Nuf said.

127: Not sure about the horror or the humanity, but I am sure that you have no idea how to dress. I'm sure you paired it with some awful shoes from Kenneth Cole (which of course means anything from KC).

black shoes are conventional for navy suits in the U.S. Brown shoes with navy is the Italian convention. I actually think navy is the only color you can go either way with and people won't notice. I see a lot of people wearing brown shoes with gray suits these days and it looks flamboyant

I am an experienced OCI interviewer. Here's what I need to see for a call back.

Guys: Clean shaven or neatly cropped beard. Get a haircut. Dark grey or navy suit, white shirt, conservative tie, black belt, black shoes, black socks. Two or three button jacket. If you can pull off the lean-cut, Italian style suit more power to you. If you don't have the physique for it, just go with something that fits. Double breasted suits are for 1920's gangsters. An interviewer will not look at your shoes or the make of your suit. If the interviewer does, and dings you for it, that person is a dick, and you probably don't want to work there anyway. The idea is to take the focus off of what you're wearing, so the focus can be on what you are saying.

Ladies: Basically the same rules apply, but its a bit harder for you. Navy or dark grey skirt or pant-suit, white shirt. Hair should be up and away from your face or neatly styled - basically just so I can see your expressions when answering questions. You need to not distract the interviewer, so don't wear anything revealing. This is a tough one, but it has to be said, because I've seen it too many times. An interviewer should not be able to see your nipples, no matter how cold it is in that stupid hotel room. Some immature male interviewers may disagree, of course, but you don't want to work with assholes anyway.

Brooks Brothers is expensive for a poor law student. To all you rich bastards, I spent less on my first car than I did for my first nice suit and yet I am in the same position you are. Interesting

"3. Blue shirts with anything other than a grey suit. "

Uh, wrong. Light blue shirt is fine with a navy suit.

107: I had to wear suits for my clerkship too. The "dress code" was not as strict as for interviewing. My judge didn't care what kind of suits we wore as long as we all looked neat and wouldn't embarass her if we had to go to the courtroom to hand something up to her at the bench. So same rules as to nothing too short, revealing, fasionable, etc. But pantsuits were fine as were light-colored and pattern suits. Remember, you still have to be comfortable enough to actually do work. And when you have to wear a suit every day you get over the fact that everyone has seen you in a suit multiple times. I would recommend getting enough suits for a full week rotation. The rest of your money is better spent on the shirts and accessories.

135: you're being ridiculous. Plenty of people wear brown shoes and brown belts and I'm sure you'll give them callbacks if everything else (e.g., grades, mannerism) is right.

Should I put pennies in my penny loafers or go a little bit crazy and maybe put in a Canadian nickel or a Loonie?

"Enjoy, and watch out for sausage arms."

Bingo wings.

139- 135 here. Yah, that's right. I'm just saying, to be on the safe side, you can't go wrong with black. Brown shoes sometimes don't work with navy, sometimes they do. I'm the type who has trouble dressing myself, so I'm just giving advice to help people other people not screw up.

if I see a male lawstudent wearing a really expensive clothing, watch, shoes, etc to an interview I assume that he is either (1) dumb because he is unaware that he is currently poor and will likely never be rich as a lawyer, or (2) has family money, which makes me question his motivation for doing this job. When female law students dress nice, I tend not to over analyze it.

People who are "Cravath Material" probably don't even wipe their ass with anything less than Armani.

cant believe no one has recommended hickey freeman suits. so much better than brooks bros.

French blue shirts with a white tabbed collar? No, no, NO!

Ladies, skirt suits are still considered "more formal" than pant suits. Err on the side of formality. And if you're doing OCI in the summer, its more comfortable in the heat anyway. The concern about gaping is more than justified: if you're at all busty, opt for a shell instead.

122:

You need to calm down.

The following things are all proven and/or obvious

1. "Attractive" people do better in interviews than "unattractive" people, all else being equal

2. Many men (and even some women) think that women are more attractive when they wear skirts compared to pants, all else being equal

These things might not be "right" or politically correct but they are pretty much true. That isn't to say that you won't get an offer for wearing a pant suit. But if you want to stack the deck in your favor you are probably better off with a skirt suit all else being equal. Don't hate on 104 for admitting to his own biases (since I assure you that many many people out there feel the same way).

At interviews you want to look your "best". For women in particular this (for better or for worse) means you want to look both professional and attractive. This isn't easy to do. You don't want to like you are "going out" but if you can pull off both cute/attractive and professional you will get more offers than someone that just looks professional. You may hate the world because of that but that is the way it is.

148: I doubt the point about attractive people. Most people hover in the semi-attractive category. Unless you're obese and/or slovenly, you'll be fine. Your advice draws a false binary that doesn't apply to most people.

2. Your point about skirts is similarly dubious. (see: the post in which the woman says her husband thinks that pant suits look nice.)

Your point about attractive and professional, however, is brilliant. You pierced to the heart of the discussion.

Ok, at the risk of being killed, are banana republic or jcrew suits okay? they look very nice and are more affordable.

For women the suits at BR can be very appropriate. They look nice but also professional.

For men, I'd say you are probably better off at Brooks Brothers. The problem with places like Brooks Brothers is that their womens apparel is made for people that are 40+. Of course the same could be said of their menswear but for men this doesn't matter like it does for women.

I think BR and JCrew are fine for women. Not men. But, women are usually able to find better looking clothes are less expensive places than men are. Not sure why.

150: Yes. They both have reasonable quality suits that you can get off the rack with minimal alteration. They won't last very long because the material isn't great. Avoid the flashier syles. J.Crew and Banana both have nice two button suits out now in navy and grey that have that leaner cut, but are still professional. Once you're practicing you can step up your game, but for right now either one will do the trick.

women are encouraged to show as much cleavage as possible

I agree with 151. Ladies, avoid BB like the plague. It's frump city.

149:

http://money.cnn.com/2005/04/08/news/funny/beautiful_money/

Attractive people do better. Yes most people aren't HOT, but they should still try and look as attractive as possible.

As to how this relates to skirts/pants. Certainly for some women they will look better in pants. Also, a really nice, well tailored, pant suit will look more attractive than a skirt suit. But how do we compare a well tailored pant suit vs. a well tailored skirt suit?

Honestly I don't know. I've certainly had boyfriends that thought that I was always hotter in a skirt. Yet I agree that there are times when I think that pants look better. It really comes down to personal preference (not yours, but the person interviewing you). I don't know if you can use the attractive distinction to make a point here. Bottom line though is that you still want to look cute while still being professional.

However, skirts are still more conservative. And yeah it doesn't matter 95% of the time, but you never know, and better safe than sorry.

I got a great custom-made suit from thick as thieves. Their normal suit is a little too fitted for law jobs so you can ask for a more conservative cut.

I have trouble buying clothes cause I'm tough to fit - pretty stocky with a 44-46R jacket size, but a 33 waist. The suits I get off the rack make me look like a fatass, even with tailoring. Any recommendations?

I wonder what the split is northeast versus southern women on the pant/skirt issue. I also wonder if the women who prefer pants tend to be more athletic in build, and thus less comfortable in skirts.

34/93 here.

95/98 -- Not sure if you're serious or not. My recommendation against loafers is only for interviews. They are acceptable in many offices but not all, and I wouldn't want to make a mistake in an interview. You don't want anything to possi-bleye go wrong.

140 -- is your name Andy Bernard?

158: try a double vented suit jacket..they tend to be a little more forgiving for the backside issues. As for the front issues, if you're broad shoulders, then having the jacket fitted around the waist should solve it; if you have a big gut, then I'm not sure what to tell you.

I do a lot of interviewing, and I will be the first to say that dressing too fashionably/expensively is a potential ding. I may assume that you are high-maintenance and will be unpleasant to work with.

Go with conservative, middle-of-the-road suits. I do not want to see weird slim Italian suits or three-piece suits. You have done a good job if I do not notice what you are wearing.

Make sure you take the tag off the sleeve of your brand new OCI suit. It's NOT supposed to remain there. I've actually seen this twice in interviews that I've conducted, and had to avert my eyes so I didn't laugh...

37 - I have, or had, a Jos A Bank suit. Worst suit I ever owned. Side seams on the pants were literally coming apart. Buttons came off. You could see the interfacing underneath the collar because it didn't line up exactly right. I tossed it in the garbage can where it belonged. Never go near Jos A Bank.

If I show up for an interview with my glockenspiel (sp?), will I get a job? I figure if I show the interesting things I do when I'm not a total nerd, I might be a more attractive candidate. Then again, I could just spit on my hand, offer it up, and say with a smile, "counselor, do we have a deal?" Maybe that would work better. Thoughts?

135 -- it looks better to have socks match the suit, not the shoes. Also, grey and black suits can wear any color shoes, except if the suit is TOO dark. (There are many stops on the color palatte before you get to "midnight" or "charcoal.") It also warrants mention that separates are a big NO for interviews.

I don't think skirt suit versus pant suit matters anymore. Given the time of year -- hose with skirt suits? I'd say preferred but not mandatory.

Anyway, pick it out carefully, put it together thoughtfully, and then forget you have it on.

i agree you shouldn't be dressed better than your interviewer, so a middle of the road suit is fine.

also, black shoes go with navy suits.

How about the Men's Wearhouse? Is George Zimmer right? Will I like the way I look? Or should I go to Sears instead?

For the men:
Two-button dark gray or navy blue suit (cotton or light wool). Four buttons on the sleeve, avoid surgeon's cuffs for you sartorial folks out there. Too flashy for the interview. Make sure you've had the trousers and the jacket cleaned and it looks crisp. For socks, they should match the color of your trousers. For shoes, traditional cordovan or black lace ups, captoe will work just fine as well. Get them polished beforehand and I suggest edge dressing for your soles to make them look like new. Belt obviously matches the shoes.
Blue or white shirt with a pinpoint, ainsley, or english collar and barrel cuffs, no need for the flash of french cuff. Red tie with a subtle pattern is always a safe play (Hermes, Paul Stuart, etc). Leave the pocket square in the drawer.

-Bespoke Tailor

What's so wrong with family money? Doesn't family money indicate potential client(s)? Last I heard, law is a business, like any other.

The only reason I ask is because the only watch I have is fancy (it was a present, I'm not from a wealthy family, but I can imagine others thinking that). Do you mean to tell me I should shop for a less expensive watch?

I didn't see any talk about watches. Do TAG's and Movado's really make a difference? Or can I wear my Kenneth Cole watch?

Appearances don't matter, dipwads. Substance does. I got a job offer in Skadden's Topeka office in shorts and flip-flops. It was no big deal.

Movado = cheesiest watches ever.

nothing wrong with family money, but I would imagine that having a trust fund lesson's one's motivation to work 80 hr weeks after a while. on the watch issue, I would echo what others have said: if you think your interviewer might focus on the watch instead of on you, maybe you shouldn't wear it

So is a gray cotton suit alright for an interview?

I wore my Hello Kitty watch and I always got mad props for it.

98 -

Just got to your post. Hilarious!

dark gray cotton is just fine. avoid the lighter shades of gray.

-BT

Skadden & Cravath = Patek Phillipe
STB & CWT = Casio Baby G-Shock
Strook = Drawing watch on wrist with black marker

One time I laughed so hard during an interview that snot started coming out of my nose. I had no handkerchief and wiped my nose with my Z Cavaricchi suit. Got a job offer anyway and made partner in 4 years. At Cravath.

This thread is a joke. Just dress conservatively and follow very simple rules (things should fit, belt/shoes match, zip your fly, etc). Within reason, you can wear any color suit or tie. Don't worry about what kind of knot to tie or whether french cuffs are acceptable. This is a level of detail you can worry about later. Interviewers are not looking for best dressed and understand that students have a limited budget. The fact of the matter is that your grades and interpersonal skills are far more important than the quality of the dimple on your half windsor.

As a side note, if you buy suits at Jos A Bank and shoes at DSW, you should not be giving fashion advice. Brooks Brothers is iffy as well.

This thread is a joke. Just dress conservatively and follow very simple rules (things should fit, belt/shoes match, zip your fly, etc). Within reason, you can wear any color suit or tie. Don't worry about what kind of knot to tie or whether french cuffs are acceptable. This is a level of detail you can worry about later. Interviewers are not looking for best dressed and understand that students have a limited budget. The fact of the matter is that your grades and interpersonal skills are far more important than the quality of the dimple on your half windsor.

As a side note, if you buy suits at Jos A Bank and shoes at DSW, you should not be giving fashion advice. Brooks Brothers is iffy as well.

A lot of people without trust funds have nice watches. Maybe somebody gave it to you as a graduation gift, whatever. If you're used to wearing a nice watch, just wear it, because you'll feel uncomfortable wearing something else. My only caveat is don't wear it if it's got diamonds in it - too bling bling

My watch is from Jacob the Jeweller and it's blinged out. Ok to wear?

Black suits are only acceptable at a funeral (or if you're a 20ish hipster winning an Academy Award).

Charcoal gray or navy with (if you must) the slightest of pinstripe is the way to go. Pair either of these with a pair of cordovan loafers and matching belt for a professional, but not over the top look. Black belt/shoes dresses it up substantially and should really only be worn for a "power" look.

Remember, bold striped shirts call for discretely patterned ties (think Hermes or Ferragamo) if you don't have the tie, don't rock the striped shirt.

Plain white shirt, red tie can't hurt.

Absolutely NO Joseph Abboud, Calvin Klein, or any other men's warehouse trash. Stick with something conservative (Brooks Bros or Hickey Freeman) unless you've got the change for something better.

I respectfully disagree that you can't wear a fantastic suit. A truly great suit doesn't "look" expensive. It looks effortless. A charcoal Ermenegildo Zegna will knock the socks off of anything else without looking over the top. Pair it with a white shirt and a classic tie and you be in good shape (and probably pick up a date leaving the OCI office after your interview).

DO NOT wear a flashy watch. Especially movado or rolex. While Rolex is ordinarily ok, it's just too much. Movado is for wannabe bankers who thing those sorts of things are cool.

I like watches. I usually wear a Datejust or Seamaster depending on how dressy I am on that day.

If you wear a nice watch I will notice and think it is nice (Omega, Rolex, or anything else that is mechanical). However, if you have a watch much nicer than mine (*cough* Patek Philippe *cough*) I will think that is a bit much. However, I bet most people asking in this thread about watches are wondering if they should wear their Rolex, not their $15k+ watch. Yes, your Rolex is fine as long as it isn't encrusted in diamonds or some other such nonsense.

However, I won't care on the downside about how nice your watch is unless it is plastic. As long as your watch looks professional you are fine. I might be interested in other "nice" watches but I bet that most other interviewers don't even notice.

At Cravath, it doesn't matter what you wear, as long as you bring someone in to wipe your ass and show how awesome you are. It's even better if they wipe your ass with their diploma from a lower-ranked law school.

Banana Republic, J.Crew, and Ann Taylor are fine for women. Just buy a dark color without any type of trim (e.g. contrast stitching, funky buttons, ribbons, etc) The suits are conservative, better proportioned for young women and are more affordable for law students. The most important thing is the fit. I interviewed in J. Crew suits and actually got compliments on them from my interviewers a few times. Wear the skirt suit to the interview - it is dressier - save the pants for regular work. And wear proper heels - no open toe, no wedges or Mary Janes.

For men and women, do not wear cologne or perfume.

What if I have two giant diamond studs in my ear? Too much, too little? Also,should I remove my prince albert prior to my interview?

135's comments are right on the money with a few additions:

1. Shine your shoes.
2. Wear a nice (but not too nice) watch -- but don't look at it during the interview!
3. Press/steam your suit every day! Do NOT wear a suit (or even slacks) twice without working out the wrinkles.
4. Avoid cologne or strong smelling perfumes -- you may even want to get an unscented deodorant.
5. WEAR DEODORANT -- BO is the fastest way to get dinged.

When I worked at the carnival we had people wiping our butts all the time. It was no big deal.

@190 -- what is a "too nice" watch?

192: Anything "flashy"

A Rolex isn't flashy if it is a basic one that doesn't have bling or other craziness.

Can we get a consensus on black suits here?

For what its worth, I locked down a V5 firm job (not Skadden) and a COA clerkship in a major market while wearing a soft pinstrip suit from Jos A Bank and a pair of black Cole Hahns. I can't tell if the suit was black or navy though. At times it looks navy and at others it looks as dark as the shoes, depending on the light. I really think this stuff matters a lot less than people think, but who knows.

I'm really worried. I've got my cumberbund, cape, top-hat, and cane, but I feel I may not stand out enough. Am I ready?

Is it inappropriate to say "damn glad to meet 'ya"?

194, if you can't tell Black from Navy, you shouldn't be giving fashion advice.

The quick way is, check the lining of the jacket. A navy suit will have lighter-navy lining (or if it's a Hugo Boss or something of the like) a different color lining.

Black suits will almost always have black or super-dark-gray lining.

159: I don't think it has to do with whether you are athletic build or not... I think it all has to do with how good your legs look. Someone really tall and lanky with knobby knees would look terrible in a skirt suit, whereas someone with shapely, slightly muscular legs would look great in one.

Dear 80:

Who says you should look "poor" in an interview?

Wear the best outfit you can put together. White shirt, great tie, new shoes. Look the part. Shoes should shine.

Get an expensive haircut. ($85 to $125). Again, look the part.

Make a (free) appointment at Neiman Marcus personal shopping. Explain the occasion. Tell him/her you want to look at sale suits. You will be in a private setting and in and out quickly.

Leave time for a final fitting. The fit is as important as he quality of the suit.

Set a budget over $1,500.

You paid six figures for your LS education to get this job, why scrimp now?

Wear a plain dress watch.

OMG, this post is hilarious. From the sound of it, most lawyers are well dressed and possibly gay. I can tell you as a rising 3L, that is not the case. So how about we here from a well-dressed lawyer-to-be, namely myself.
**You can ignore this message if you can name 5 top designers and the name of their newest label. If you cannot do that, then you are part of the 95% of people who do not know fashion and will probably benefit from my advice.
**Girls, I'm sorry but I'm not an expert for you. I can tell when it works and when it doesn't, but I'm into guys and guy fashion.
**Guys, please do yourself a favor and first relax. You can look very sharp without spending much money.
1). I'm going to refrain from mentioning labels because a) the best I've heard posted on here is Jos A Bank, which is not sad, but it's not even spoken in the world of fashion (though perhaps hetero old white men talk about it, but you don't want to look like most of them) and b) law students, myself included, dont' have a ton of discretionary income (we're not poor, but I doubt many of us law students have 5K to drop on a small wardrobe).
2). Please remember above all to NOT stand out. Yes, I'm especially looking to my fellow homos. Do not dress to impress. Save that for Barrister's ball, your halloween party, or some other cluster *uck.
3). Do wear a black, navy, or gray suit. Tan, Camel, white, lighter blues, are all out.
4). Pinstripe or no pinstripe? It doesn't matter really. Yes pinstripes are better, but honestly, do not go buy a pinstripe if you don't already have one.
5). Do not even think of wearing brown shoes. You heteros are all colorblind or something. Yes, brown can be pulled off with certain navy and gray suits, but don't you dare try. Just wear decent black shoes. Either the kind you just slip on, or normal lace up.
6). Your shirt must be white or blue. Do not add color. Don't even think about it. I swear to God if I see another wanna be meterosexual man try to pull off some ridiculous color I'm going to throw him a blue shirt.
7). Your tie should be gold/light tellow, or maroon. Solid is acceptable, but a simple pattern is preferred. Do not even think about "sprucing yourself up" with a festive tie.
8). Big mistake you watch for. Guys, sports jackets are great, but are not a suit per se. A suit is made to go together, whereas a sports jacket is an accessory item that is sometimes worn (very well) with jeans. I repeat, wear a suit and not slacks and a sports coat.
**Good luck gents, and remember, just look normal, don't stand out, and save the "dress to impress" for some school dance when you wear aviators while you grind on the dance floor.

Skadden = asswiping Fratmosphere of hell.

Black suits are for Japanese, Hollywood or funerals.

Three-buttons are for people who actually look good in them.

Brooks Brothers is for people who already have jobs. Law students shouldn't come in wearing $1500+ of clothes between suit, shirt, tie and shoes.

I love going to meetings at BigLaw firms. I might be amongst the lowest paid....but I can buy my suits in standard sizes, don't know where those fatties get theres, and whats the deal with all the carby food at depos???....oh and I was in the clothing business before law so I roll in Oxxford and Hickey-Freeman Custom....Rolex/Tag/Patek just to show off name....got a nice Pasquale Bruni automatic for formal events.

real advice...nothing too loud, if you want to showcase your individuality get some fancy cufflinks or a nice (i.e. NOT NOVELTY) tie and for goodness sake matching shoes/sox/belt (refrain from gator/croc at initial interview). Pocketwatch always a nice touch.

First of all, relax. The suit is not going to make the difference, unless you really f__k it up. The two traditional colors are navy and gray, and you can't go wrong with either. A white shirt is probably the best bet, as is a conservative tie, although Ferragamo or Hermes isn't a bad idea. Here are some important don'ts, though:

1.) Don't wear cologne. At all. I better not be able to smell i) your body odor, ii) your Cool Water Cologne (or for ladies, stripper juice), or heaven's, iii) your breath.

2.) Don't wear white socks. Even if you live in the Midwest.

3.) Don't wear a shirt of any color other than white or blue. Maroon and blue collared shirts were designed for cab drivers.

4.) Don't button the buttons on your suit. They're not generally meant to be buttoned, but if you must (and undo before sitting), only button the top button, and if you have a three button suit, the middle button. NEVER button the bottom button. You will look like an NBA player with those nine button suits.

5.) This should go without saying, but if you are considering a colored suit, like Deion Sanders used to wear on NFL Countdown- don't.

6.) Girls- no cleavage, even a little bit. Even if you are mammoth and that means wearing a shirt that has no neckline.

7.) No pocket squares. Seriously. The people who are going to be interviewing you aren't fashion advisers, they're lawyers.

8.) No bowties. You will look like a weenie. And even though you are interviewing to be a lawyer, most lawyers don't consider themselves weenies.

9.) Hair- get a real haircut. No firm will want to talk to you if you look like you belong in a rock band. Seriously. Don't even sign up for interviews if your ridiculous-looking long hair is more important than being a lawyer. Find a more meaningful way to define yourself.

10.) Facial hair. Never on ladies, and never on men, unless you have a moustache that could kick Mike Ditka's moustache's ass. And at 24, none of you do. So shave it. Your girlfriend will thank you.

11.) Did I say no cologne? Seriously, who even wears cologne during the day?

200: A straight guy says thank the lord for helpful homos.

197, 194 here:

I would hardly characterize my post as "fashion advice." In fact, I was soliciting advice, which you were kind enough to give. I merely stated that, in my experience, fashion didn't matter much.

Reading comprehension clearly trumps your ability to buy a suit in the legal world. Look no further than the often poorly dressed people at the top of it.

I wanted to get some quick advice. I currently have a black and tan suit from men's wearhouse.

is black really inappropriate as many of you claim?

is it really necessary that i upgrade and go get a brooks brothers suit?

135 has it....no interviewer cares as long as you look respectable and classy.

do women in skirt suits have to wear pantyhose?

Dear 125:

Consider adding a purple large brimmed hat with a green snakeskin hat band, and one ore more wear diamond rings at least 2" X 2" in size.

Also, consider a faux diamond nugget watch. The more gold bracelets the better.

Keep one leg stiff as you swagger into the interview.

If you receive a lunch call back, try to rent a purple caddie with an over sized chrome grill, and tip the valet $20 to leave it up front.

As a very knowledgeable homo, I completely agree with 204s post. I'd like to incorporate his into mine by reference:-)
And 204, very good job on stressing the hair thing. Straight guys, I don't know what it is about you but you act like it doesn't matter, when it really does. No matter your style, you must NEVER go in with scruff (you know, in the back, where your hair can touch the collar of your shirt). You SHOULD look like a member of the military in that area of your haircut. And no mullets for midwesterners. Just kidding, I'm a midwesterner, nothing but love for you all....(thank god I got out of there though).
-If pictures help, think of Christian Bale as Patrick Bateman in American Psycho. But not the scene where he had suspenders. No suspenders!
-Much love, #200

207: you don't need to buy a Brooks Brothers suit and your black one would work if you can't afford a new one. But, the tan one must stay in the closet for interviews. It's fine for an everyday suit, but not interviews. Black won't lose you the offer, but, honestly, it will not look as professional as navy or grey.

209 - Absolutely.

How about a short-sleeved dress shirt for those occasionally muggy fall days in NYC? And for that matter, maybe dress shorts and suspenders? A sort of schoolboy look? Might be hot.

Bonk on, Nerds!

201 = Latham troll

WHY DO YOU PEOPLE KEEP SAYING BROOKS BROTHERS IS "GOOD" OR AN "UPGRADE"?

One should not aspire to wear Brooks Bros. It has long been a staple of american sartorialism, but has become, in my opinion, far overworn and commonplace. I can spot the (10 to 15 or so) Brooks Bros non-iron shirts from a mile away and they are far too uniform-like nowadays.

Zegna. Armani. Canali. Save up, make it happen, dress like a pro. You can get an Armani Collezioni on sale for $1,000 to $1,500 that will put any Brooks Bros. to shame and you won't look like a frat-bot.

I just listen for brands mentioned in rap songs.

One word -- "bespoke." No matter what "name" you buy (and no, Brooks Bros is not a name, it is the excuse for all the East Coast wannabes), it always has to be altered to really look right. Why not start right and have it custom made.

Just drop a deuce on the floor and everything will be ok.

65 - Ecco is an Italian name. You probably paid too much for yours.

Dear 207:

Yes.

No, Zegna. Armani. Canali.

Quality shoes.

Nice tie.

No matter what people SAY, we are all conditioned to respond to a great fitted, quality suit, white shirt, quality (and shined) shoes, and an upscale haircut.

If you think your prospective Vault 20 firm employer does not want you going to court to cover that discovery motion in a Men's Warehouse suit.

You are going to be a lawyer, not a bus driver buying a suit he will wear once at his daughters wedding. Show some class.

Three button suits are classic; two button suits are actually a more modern fad poularized by JFK. There is nothing 90s about a three button. Wear on...

I personally don't care for any italian suits. Armani, Zenga etc. all look trashy a few years out.

Oxxford, Hickey-Freeman, Hart Schaffner & Marx are great. Burberry suits are made by hickey but are only hlaf canvassed and a step down from Hickey. The new 'Monogram' HSM suit is really nice; plus, you can usually find them marked down from $1799 retail. Coppley makes a nice suit , too. Paul Stuart is great if you can afford it. Also. the mtm Ralph Lauren suits are gorgeous. Brooks suits are nice but wait until they go on sale.

Anything over $2000 and you are better off buying made to measure.

Stick to blue and grey; brown can look like shit and is technically a 'country color' for riding or shooting. Black rarely looks good on anything but a tux.

Don't wear loafers with a suit, too casual. Def stick to cap toes or bluchers.

Dear 207:

Yes.

No, Zegna. Armani. Canali.

Quality shoes.

Nice tie.

No matter what people SAY, we are all conditioned to respond to a great fitted, quality suit, white shirt, quality (and shined) shoes, and an upscale haircut.

Your prospective Vault 20 firm employer does not want you going to court to cover that discovery motion in a Men's Warehouse suit.

You are going to be a lawyer, not a bus driver buying a suit he will wear once at his daughters wedding. Show some class.

I completely disagree with the "you must wear a skirt suit" advice. What century are we in? Women should wear whatever they feel comfortable in. Like someone earlier mentioned, if you aren't going to get hired because you aren't wearing a skirt, would you want to be? The truth is, as long as you look nice and professional, no one will notice what you're wearing.

I must agree with those who say that women look better in a skirt than in pants - not that there aren't women who look great in pants (of course, those that do would look even better in a skirt!).

So long as the skirt is below the knee (no need to go for the full-length look), you are fine. Pant suits are too Hillary-esq (obviously an accomplished woman but a tad intimidating!)

Is it okay to wear a light blue shirt with a black suit?

Also, what about a nice crisp white pocket square? Like the gent in the pic for this article?

196: That's only appropriate if, when you offer to shake hands, you do so with your palm facing down, squeeze hard, and pull your interviewer in toward you. You're aiming for a certain level of intimidation.

224 - It really depends on geography. Pantsuits are no problem in NY and haven't been for years. I wouldn't count on that in the South or Midwest (not including Chicago), though.

What's the difference between a blazer and a tuxedo?

What about haircuts? Is it okay to have that "A-Rod" look? After all, its the summer, and I've been keeping it short, real, real short.

226: What is "light blue" to you? There's no rule, but I would say no. Stick with a standard blue or a darker blue. Then you don't have to worry about going wrong.
-and yea, the guy in the pic is hot, but you should notice it's sporting an "after six" look explicitly. After six the rules relax and you can do stuff like that. You should not wear anything in your pocket unless you have an incredibly sensitive eye. Let's just say, I know fashion, and I wouldn't try to pull it off before 5. In short, do not wear that just cause he looks hot in it or because it'd look hot on you at night time in a club. Again, work rules, not club rules, apply.
-Your resident homo, #200, aka 211

I wore a conservatively cut black skirtsuit. I got plenty of offers. I don't get the constant reiteration that "black suits are for funerals." Are you people all in Atlanta?

We said "suit," not "skirtsuit."

232: I would say that women definitely can wear black skirt/pant suits, but that men probably shouldn't wear black suits.

As described in my previous post (200), a blazer, aka sports jacket, is an independent accessory that lends itself to being worn with jeans or dress slacks. A suit comes with matching pants (think of it as a combo). A tuxedo jacket will come with pants, and there is no way you could mistake a tux jacket for a suit or a blazer (sports jacket). IF you wear a tux, your fellow classmates will laugh and start asking you questions long before you walk into that interviewing room (leaving you enough time to borrow a dark jacket from someone exiting an interview).
http://men.style.com/gq/fashion/styleguy/suitsandblazers/615

Or, to sum up what 231 wrote, what's right on Madison Ave. isn't necessarily right on Wall Street.

I am a female lawyer in New York. I interview a lot of candidates, and I happen to agree that women should wear skirt suits for OCI. It has nothing to do with what century we're living in and no, it wouldn't cost you a job. They are just more formal, and candidates act more formally when they are wearing them. I wear pant suits most of the time at work but I have seen it many, many times that lateral candidates wearing pantsuits tend to act more relaxed, as if I'm not interviewing them.

234, I do not mean to be adversarial, but I think you are wrong when you say men shouldn't wear black suits. Just like navy and gray suits, black suits can be very stylish. True, some could see it as a little funeral-esque, but on the flip side there are hideous gray and navy suits that should be banned from this universe. And actually, if you look at a lot of law firm pictures and promo materials online, you'll find most firms spot a guy in a black suit. So again, I'm not getting where you're getting this fashion advice from. It doesn't register with me. Yes i think navy suits are best, but that doesn't mean Black suits are not fine. I believe they are.
-200, resident homo

238: I just have never thought of a black suit as a business suit. fine for evenings out and funerals, but just don't seem like business suits. But, maybe I'm old-fashioned.

Obviously, Pant Suits were acceptable for a woman applying for the most difficult job in the world. Bright, Carribbean-colored Pant Suits, no less.

I thought a Basic Instinct moment was a requirement at some firms? Was looking forward to doing those interviews. :(
Signed,
Perv

Black suits are not 'fine'

Only buy black if you already have ~25 suits

Or if you wear square toed loafers, a ceaser cut and no tie.

http://www.sullcrom.com/schwartzmaxj/
http://www.whitecase.com/
http://www.kirkland.com/

Here are the first 3 websites i looked at, and all picture a man in a black suit. All 3 firms at V20 or better I believe.

-200

And you can take my word that I've never heard a designer say on his website or in an interview that you should not wear black to work. That's just silly.

224 - you're missing the point. If interview dress were about being logical, there wouldn't be a thread in the first place. There are arbitrary rules for what to wear, and while I find those rules to be pretty dumb, I'm still going to wonder wonder about a candidate who thinks my firm isn't worth being slightly uncomfortable. You're probably right about the pants suit being OK. But what if it was your absolute top choice firm, the big interview you've been waiting for? Wouldn't you put on a skirt just to erase any doubt? I think you would. And by going with the pants at other firms, *some* people will think "I bet she didn't wear pants to her Cravath interview".

Yes, this is all stupid. But that doesn't really matter.

I have a problem with shoes. I'm vegan, and the only place with vegan black shoes is Payless. I have old leather shoes I'm willing to wear, but does anybody know of a custom shoe maker who will make me some amazing non-leather shoes?

Looks like shit, what an awful tie:
http://www.sullcrom.com/schwartzmaxj/

ditto:
http://www.whitecase.com/

Can't tell what's charcoal and what's navy;
http://www.whitecase.com/

See this for a good look:
http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/4228/oxxfordhkcf100806jn4.jpg

A 3/2 sack coat is always good, except in black.

244 here - just wanted to say my post about pants suits applies to every other nonconformist move also, whether it be a "slim cut" suit, "sporty" shoes or whatever. These little details SHOULDN'T be a problem, but they are a problem because when you deviate from the norm, you send a message that not only is this not your top choice firm, but you're also willing to take a small risk for the sake of what? Fashion?

You should only wear a black suit to work if you are a funeral director or a minister.

238: You're just mistaken. It's as simple as that. Black isn't fine.

Go on the Brooks Brothers website. Under suits, you won't find many black ones (if you find any at all). Under formalwear, you do.

And therein lies the rub.

244: don't law firms stress innovation? Whatever happened to that? Whatever happened to thinking outside the box?

240, you proved the point. Didn't work. Or at least, didn't help.

247: we take fashionable risks because we're the highly innovative go-getters for which for firm has been searching. We deliver out-of-the-box solutions for a world that stress interdisciplinary solutions to complicated business problems. That's just the way we work. Don't like the heat? I advise stepping out of the kitchen.

245 - I am asking this only out of curiosity, not to be insulting at all (I feel like that disclaimer is necessary on ATL):

If you're so dedicated to your values that you will go to great lengths to avoid wearing just a single pair of leather shoes to an interview....how are you OK with the relatively larger moral compromise of a career in biglaw?

238: I'm not really giving "fashion advice." I'm not qualified. I am giving interview advice.

Black suits are stylish. Stylish isn't necessarily what you're looking for at an interview. The perception is that black suits are most appropriate for sad occasions, the blues brothers, and John Cusack.

If you've got what it takes to go for stylish, by all means go for a black suit. If you're on the fence - navy or gray is the safest bet.

As an aside, Justice Scalia noted in a recent interview that he would consider booting an attorney out of court if he/she wore any color suit other than navy or dark gray. Chances are he's not interviewing you for a job right now, but it just goes to show how cranky old white guys feel about formal dress for lawyers. That's who you want dress to impress at an interview: cranky old white guys.

-234/135

252: You're joking right? If so, that was the funniest post I've seen in a while. If not, well, it was still the funniest post I've seen in a while.

254 is exactly right, and to add to his/her post, I would ask: even if you weren't interviewing with cranky old white guys, what would you lose by wearing a grey or navy suit anyway?

In Atlanta, Georgia, are polo shirts, braided belts and well ironed navy Dockers still okay for interviews?

ROFLMAO @ 252: "We deliver out-of-the-box solutions for a world that stress interdisciplinary solutions to complicated business problems. "

LOL....my side is actually starting to hurt from laughing so hard.

"Black isn't fine.

Go on the Brooks Brothers website. Under suits, you won't find many black ones"

This is worth taking into consideration if you want to work at Brooks Brothers. But if you want a job at a law firm, isn't what you see at their websites a better indication of how to present yourself to them?

252 - 247 here. I am already in "the kitchen" and you'll be happy to know there's no "heat". Its just a law firm, drama queen. So calm down. You'll probably be fine in your fancy Euro suits. But you'll definitely be fine without them, so what's the point?

"We deliver out-of-the-box solutions for a world that stress interdisciplinary solutions to complicated business problems. "

You have to include "at the end of the day" somewhere.

252: How much did you pay a PR firm to come up with those lines? It sounds like the kind of drivel wanna-be "experts" tout to clients when they don't have the goods.

Guys in my high school used to spout bullshit about out-of-the-box solutions for a world that stress [sic] interdisciplinary solutions all the time. It was no big deal.

245 here:
"moral compromise of a career in biglaw" - Couldn't know what you mean. I'm a Transactional (Corporate M&A) attorney who believes in free markets. Free markets give people what they deserve. I know the amount of work I am in for and the rewards. Will I help sell Nukes to Iran? No. Will I help a company downsize 10,000 underperforming, non-productive, lazy workers who should have worked harder in school and gotten a higher education? Yes. Will I help an insurance company not pay out on a policy for a non-covered incident? Yes. (The consumer should have READ the policy - to bad - you lose you lazy entitlement-minded consumer)

Moral Compromise? The weak shall perish when they don't read contracts that they sign.

264 works at Seyfarth Shaw.

187--

We have former Cravath employees come in and white your ass with their pink slips.

Kinda like those chickens and cows perished for being too stupid to make a break for it before they were slaughtered and butchered... (licks lips)

264 is the toughest guy in the world.

267 = pure genius. I love it.

264 is a lover, not a fighter, but he's also a fighter, so don't get any ideas.

264 - I appreciate the response but I do think you make some very convenient assumptions, the most convenient of which is that your clients will never be wrong. What about when the insurance company doesn't want to pay on a covered item, and they ask you to slow down the process for the purpose of raising the plaintiffs costs of litigation? Or (real world example) when a certain tire company asks you to fight to de-certify a class of plaintiffs who any neutral observer can plainly see should recover as a class for the deaths of their family members when the tires burst on the highway?

I'm sure you have some answers to these questions, but I'm surprised those answers are good enough when your moral standard is so tough that you'll inconvenience yourself to avoid a single pair of leather shoes.

(245) 267 - you might want to take a look at the nude ladies of Peta.org before putting that flesh to your mouth.

I have a $200 Seiko watch. Is some douche at my interview going to notice and ding me for this? Is it better to go watchless?

Dammit, I like my cheap watch. If I get the job, do I have to trade up for something that actually costs money and will get me mugged on the street?

--Watch Guy

Several seemingly serious people have said white shirts only for interviews. I have a very pale complection. (Working for biglaw makes it worse.) White shirts are super bad for me. Is light blue that bad? I thought light blue with dark grey suit is universally recognized as part of the conservative dress.

Glad someone finally posted. For the opposite problem (my complexion is too dark), white shirts are too much contrast. I find light blue to work out best.

274, light blue is not super bad for you. It appears as though your spelling skills will be your doom.

264 = Insurance Defence + JC Penny Suits

264 = Insurance Defense + JC Penny Suits + 5 Year Old BMW 3 Series (leased)

273: Switch to the Timex Indiglo

264 here:
In response to 271: That is one of the reasons I am not in Litigation. Please give me transactional hypos. As to the tire issue: sure, there may be common issues of manufacture, but what about the circumstances of the explosion of the tire? Did they all hit a pot-hole of the same size? Is that really predomination of common issues of fact? What about the severity of injuries? Are the class representative's injuries really typical of the class?

I have no problem with representing a client that is "wrong." If you do, you should be in a different profession.

Wrong in a legal sense is wrong in the eyes of the people who wrote the law. Wrong in an absolute sense is wrong contrary to natural law. Wrong in a sense that I won't perform the representation requires: 1. a wrong contrary to natural law and 2. a wrong so severe as to enflame my passions to the extent that I put the well being of the victim above my own. If possible, I may also pass on a representation violative of natural law if it can be done without harm to myself or my client.

As for my 272 comment, I find that rational argument doesn't work because meat and dairy taste so good. The human passions must be overcome with . . . human passions so that the mind and heart can control the Id.

But woe be to opposing counsel when my passions are enflamed for the benefit of my client.

I just interviewed a candidate yesterday.

He wasn't wearing a fancy suit, but he had a clean shave, a good haircut, and some smart specs. He looked and acted intelligent and confident -- like someone we could make competent. And he wasn't a tool. We gave him an offer.

So don't spend a fortune on fancy suits and fancy shoes, particularly if you are going into the hoc to get them. Go to a Nordstrom Rack or similar retailer and look for a nice conservative dark suit that might be last year's style at a significant discount.

You only need one, because trust me, no one on your callback will remember what your suit looked like at your OCI. We have many many things to remember, most of which we get paid for. Remembering your outfit is not one of them. Also, get three or four good white shirts that fit you so you can rotate them as you interview, and a couple tasteful (not flashy) ties.

p.s.: if you can't polish the shoe, you probably shouldn't be wearing it to your interview.

274 & 275:

Guys, if you feel like you look better in a blue shirt wear a blue shirt. You will feel more comfortable, so your interview will go better.

Note: no matter how nice you look in pink, stripes, etc. I wouldn't recommend wearing it. When interviewing you want to make the safest possible decisions so that your resume and personality make the impression - not your outfit. White is the most conservative, and as such the safest. Blue is also fine, and won't get noticed.

Anything else and your shirt will get noticed. That may be good or may be bad, depending on the interviewer- but you can't know in advance so don't risk it.

-135/254

264/280 - good response. Though your point #2 is something I didn't expect from you - if there are wrongs that are minor enough that you'll put your well being above that of others, why not just buy one pair of leather shoes for interviews? Surely you will save valuable time and money, and in exchange for a very minor compromise to your values (only one pair, plus the cow was dead for beef anyway).

In any case, I wish you luck. I'm pretty sure the harder part will be finding a good custom shoe maker (there isn't exactly a Zagat's for such a thing). Once that's done, I think any shoe maker will have non-leather options.

everyone here is full of shit .. i wore board shorts, sandals, a jimmy buffet t-shirt, and a straw hat to my interview with Cravath .. i was promptly extended an offer

If you want to stand apart from all the other OCI clones, I recommend taking this approach:

http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/2008/07/30/fashion/0731-SHORTS_index.html

245: Re. the vegan clothing issue - I'm not a vegan so I have not thoroughly researched this, however I know that Ferragamo makes a line of shoes that isn't made of leather - those might be decent every-day shoes at work. If you go to the Neiman Marcus page you can search for the "Ralmy Wedge," "Rain Wedge." Pretty expensive (but very comfortable - I'm sure they will not give you blisters like those Payless shoes). Perhaps another designer makes shoes with a similar material? I'm curious if anyone has ideas here.

Watch Guy/273:

Don't worry about it. Anyone who paid more than $500 isn't wearing a watch--he's wearing jewelry. If he scoffs at you because he's wearing jewelry and you aren't, you don't want to work for him and it's also FUNNY AS HELL.

245: I just posted (286) and found another one - it's a pump made from stretch fabric, but the heel is extremely low - basically flats. It's the "Balmy Pump" from Ferragamo.

Other suggestion is that maybe a shoe-maker can re-heel a shoe for you. If you find a non-leather shoe with a very low heel, maybe a professional could advise you as to whether it's possible to remove the old heel and put a higher one on. I know it is possible on some shoes, it just depends on the way a particular shoe is designed.

Then on the Nordstrom page, I see the "Magdesians 'Sandy' Pump" - not the height of style and not really an interview shoe, but looks all synthetic.

You might want to call Nordstrom / Bloomingdales / Neiman Marcus or go to the stores and ask them about this. I'm sure there is something for you!

209: Good lord yes! No bare legs for interviews! Go write that 50 times on a chalkboard.

Re: finding vegan shoes. Isn't this what the internet is for? These are perfect for an interview.

http://www.vegetarianshoesandbags.com/women/vegan+dress+shoes/68082-0015/product.aspx

p.s. the back cutout is probably too sexy for an interview, but these are gorgeous!

http://www.charmone.com/product/7ccc5f4a-19bc-4d9e-848d-62470757724f.aspx

264:

If you have a rational, internally coherent, and non-circular account of natural law, let's hear it.

continuing hunting for interview appropriate vegan shoes while continuing to wait to hear back from client . . .

http://www.tecasan.com/item.aspx?icolor=353&cat=2

264, I've seen people with a "higher education" and very impressive grades let go by corporations before. While it seems I generally agree with your ethics, I don't agree with your characterization of people let go during a downsizing. I worked in a large technology corporation for roughly 5 years. During this time the company went through a major rif. While I wasn't hit by the rif, I knew several people who were. The people let go worked in a specific research division of the company on a somewhat fringe technology. When the corporation's profits slipped and they started the rif the technology team I mentioned was dissolved and all the employees were let go. Many of the people let go have PhDs from extremely respected institutions, and they were producing positive research results. However, the business felt the research wasn't right for the company anymore, so it became a liability and was dissolved. The point of this is that morally justifying helping a corporation to downsize isn't as easy as telling yourself that you're just helping to get rid of some slackers who are wasting company resources. I personally would justify this by telling myself that I'm helping to improve the financial structure of the company, and the employees being let go are all having their employment terminated for different reasons. By improving the financial position of the company I'm helping to increase shareholder (or the owners) value. By increasing the value of the company it will spur further growth to adjust for the current loss -- at least this is the hope. I believe that you are correct in your motives; it's just that you might be better received if you cut the tough guy act a little.

Just so this post isn't completely off topic... I've been on several interviews for both legal jobs and non-legal jobs. Pretty much you always put on a nice suit, it doesn't need to cost a lot (~$500), and polish your shoes. The exception to this rule is if you are interviewing with a tech company in Silicon Valley, in that case you could show up dressed as Bozo the Clown and nobody would care - some might even applaud you.

Example of nice suit:
http://www.josbank.com/IWCatProductPage.process?Merchant_Id=1&Section_Id=1100&pcount=&Product_Id=338660

Example of Bozo the Clown:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9dPx_h1eECI&feature=related

Gentlemen from my preparatory academy frequently showed up at on university interviews wearing Super 130, Brioni suits, Canali shirts and ties, and Louis Vuitton tie ups. It was not a conspicious affair.

Gentlemen from my preparatory academy frequently showed up at on university interviews wearing Super 130, Brioni suits, Canali shirts and ties, and Louis Vuitton tie ups. It was not a conspicious affair.

~Fraternity Lothario

navy blue chalkstripe zegna suit.
dior striped blue tie.
eton white dress shirt.
dark brown adam derrick laofers.

you are set.

Here's the uniform--

Solid navy blue Zegna suit;
Red Hermes tie (blue whales print)
Paul Smith white shirt
Black Gucci belt
Black Ferragamo loafers.

My problem is opposite that of 245/264/280. I prefer to wear shoes made of the hides of endangered species. Is anyone familiar with a cobbler who would fashion a pair of white rhinoceros loafers?

There are plenty of people here who stated it right, be conservative - dark suit, white shirt, basic tie.

Doesn't matter how nice a suit it is, we recognize that you are a law student and are on a budget. Just look professional. I got several offers using a Men's Warehouse suit that I purchased for $200.

Also, I'm going to notice a typo on your resume before I notice a button collar. Stop obsessing. As long as you look like you belong in an office, it won't be an issue.

p.s. I'm am interviewing law students at a few OCI programs for my firm.

As to the skirt v. pants -

I have seen way too many women, usually young-looking or thinner, look like they were playing dress-up in a skirtsuit.

Wear a skirtsuit that suits your body shape or wear a pantsuit (which is more forgiving). Don't wear a skirtsuit just to prove you can be conservative if it will make you look more like a doll than a professional.

300... check your own typos.

300 here -

btw, looking through this thread made me remember my callback interview at the firm I now work at. I grabbed my suit from the dry cleaner and flew to the interview. In the morning when I was getting dressed, I noticed that my dry cleaner included my dark slacks (not suit pants) instead of my suit pants. Since my interview was starting in about 30 mins, and stores weren't open yet, I was stuck.

I went through my whole interview worrying about it, and no one noticed. If you have a personality and are comfortable in your own skin the interviewer won't care unless you look like a complete mess.

302 - you proved my point

Here's the uniform:

Prince of Wales Hickey Freeman Suit
Royal Shirt Co Shirt
Vineyard Vines Tie
Black Alden captoes & belt
Dunhill Briefcase

Natalie Portman has a line of vegan shoes: http://justjared.buzznet.com/2008/02/13/natalie-portman-vegan-shoes-2/

This thread is proof positive that law students are, by and large, freakish tools. If you really need the assistance of a message board to figure out what to wear to a job interview, I don't want to work with you.

And 297, I hope you meant Kiton, not Eton, because that's garbage.

Vegan shoes? So, if you are trapped like the Donner Party, you can eat the shoes without blowing the diet?

I like Woody Harrelson’s new shoe line better. If all else fails, you can smoke them.

http://www.marijuananews.com/marijuananews/cowan/woody_harrelson.htm

One is a coat, and one is a matching coat and pants.

Obviously, you are in LS in Guam or HI and don't wear either.

Interviewers spend a lot less time thinking about your interview than you do. We pretty much make snap judgments based on your resume and whether you seem like someone we'd let loose in front of the clients. You need a suit that gives a nice silhouette (for the shaking hands part) and complements your face (for the sitting and talking part). Beyond that, anything conservative and clean will do fine.

I'm looking for a shoe company that specialize in the hides of hypocritical and self righteous assholes who revel in the misery of others. Can anyone help?

These might help:

http://dissent-op.blogspot.com/2008/07/gentleman-lawyer-suit-school-canvassed.html

http://dissent-op.blogspot.com/2008/07/gentleman-lawyer-suit-school.html

Also, http://www.styleforum.net would be helpful. This isn't rocket science.

2 choices. Navy or Charcoal.

Shoes are black. Never brown for an interview. Brown shoes are inherently informal

Shoes should be lace-ups, not Kenneth Cole squared toed Frankenshoes. For a good example of an interview shoes, look for the Allen Edmonds Park Avenue. Google it.

Wear balmoral shoes rather than bluchers- they're more formal. Google it if you don't know what I mean.

Don't wear expensive designer stuff that is obviously expensive and designer. It makes you look like a tool.

So I have bladder issues, and I don't like to wear my Depends with a suit because it makes me look like a big baby. Plus it makes a swishing sound when I walk, which I hate having to explain away. If I pee my pants during an interview, should I acknowledge it mid-stream (no pun intended) and hope for the best, or should I act like nothing happened and try to make a clean getaway? Thanks.

-Scared to pee

To 294 and anyone who reads his comment-

That might be an ok looking suit, but Jos A. Bank suits are generally trash. Same goes for Hugo Boss and most Armani (save their top line). It's designer trash. You buy the name, not a good quality product.

Save up your money and buy one really good suit from Hickey Freeman or so, rather than a PoS from JaB.

Black suits have traditionally been unacceptable because they were worn by Jewish attorneys. However, now that all of the firms hire Jewish attorneys, as well as all sorts of chavs and strivers and racial minorities (who also wear black suits), and since even at places like Davis Polk many of the partners these dary are also these same type of low budget people, and since these days the Chasidim wear red zoot suits and shit to work in the City, it is probably OK to wear a black suit without anyone thinking that you "might not belong." In fact, some places, like McKinsey, encourage their employees to wear black suits to emphasize their acceptance of racial and ethnic diversity and third world roots.

That said, I wore a black suit one and only one time when I was 13. I would never be caught dead in a black suit again, because I think they are ugly. But some people say that about America Ferrera.

What about brown suits? I like them, but are they appropriate for interviews?

@317, is it navy or gray?

No? Ok, then it isn't appropriate. How many times must we say it. Wear a navy or gray suit (preferably dark, pinstripes being optional).

Navy or Charcoal.

Not banker's grey. No pinstripes.

As someone doing the interviewing, this is not that complicated. I don't care how expensive your suits, watches or shoes are. I couldn't care less. What I care about is that you are qualified. But, I do agree with those that say you need to be conservative during your interviews. Guys, don't come in with a pink shirt on for your interview. Girls, don't come in with big dangling earring. Be conservative. We are by nature a conservative profession, even today. Remember, you are trying to make a good first impression.

Guys, first and foremost, wear a suit. No blazer and slacks. Wear a conservative shirt -- white or blue. Save the outlandish colors for once you have a job. Wear a muted conservative tie. Polish your shoes and wear a belt that matches Be clean shaven. I have no problem with cologne, but don't bathe in it. And yes, definitely, wear deodorant. This is not rocket science.

Girls, skirt suits are preferred, but if you are more comfortable in a pant suit, that is ok. I prefer wearings skirts but do wear both. I just find the skirts to be more appropriate for interviewing and big meetings. (And definitely for court). Make sure whatever you are wearing FITS. Keep your hair out of your face. As with the guys, perfume is fine, but do not overdo it. Conservative shoes are a must -- no 3 inch heels, no sandals, closed toe. And I don't care if you are wearing pants or a skirt -- no bare legs. Wear pantyhose with a skirt, knee highs with pants. This is a must for a formal interview or for going to court.

Will dressing conservatively guarantee you the job? Probably not. But you don't want to get dinged because you didn't dress the part.

I am very glad to see that my fellow OCIers are so f'ing clueless. Things are looking up for me. "Should I wear a black suit?" Give me a break. If you are asking that question, you should probably not even bother showing up, atleast not for interviews in top markets like NYC or DC. I think I am looking forward to OCIs most because I will be able to see some of the awful ensembles that my classmates put together. That pink tie looks great bro. You are going to knock 'em dead.

As a guy, is it okay to have slightly bleached/lightened hair? What if it has the "A-Rod" look?

150, J.Crew suits are great. In fact, I am wearing one right now. The nice thing is that they DO last a long time. I am not sure who said they don't but that's not true. I bought my first J.Crew suit in 1997 (wool gab) while still in undergrad. In 2003, I bought the pants to go with it and it matched. Yes, six years later the fabric still matched. In 1998, I bought the black wool crepe suit and bought a new pair of pants this past January and surprise, yes, they match. The cuts are classic. The sizes are consistent and they don't change the fabrics year to year which means that you can buy pieces at a time if you can't afford the whole skirt, jacket and pants at one time.

Enjoy your interviews!

j Crew is hit or miss. They used to have some reputable brands make their suits and just re-tagged them.

Nowadays, though, I think J. Crews suits are more and more imported garbage. Take a look at the country of origin before you buy.

Further to what 323 said, same is true of Ann Taylor black triacetate. Buy one suit, then pick up extra pieces when they hit the deep discount sale rack. Even years later, they will match.

Note though that J. Crew wovens are more suitable (sorry) for interviews.

As to the point made up above about slender women looking like they're playing dress up: that's usually due to overly large shoulders, be it cut or pads. Get your jackets TAILORED and this won't happen. Or buy a brand like Theory that is very narrowly cut through the shoulders. (J. Crew isn't terrible either.) If this happens to you and you're on the short side, you should probably be shopping petites. (Not the fuddy duddy department store section, but J. Crew online, BR online or Ann Taylor.)

As someone who conducts on campus interviews I have to say I do not care what color, grey, dark blue, navy, black, pin stripe, checked, window pane, etc, you wear, so long as you look respectable, and more importantly, act respectable.

As someone who conducts on campus interviews I have to say I do not care what color, grey, dark blue, navy, black, pin stripe, checked, window pane, etc, you wear, so long as you look respectable, and more importantly, act respectable.

As someone who conducts on campus interviews I have to say I do not care what color, grey, dark blue, navy, black, pin stripe, checked, window pane, etc, you wear, so long as you look respectable, and more importantly, act respectable.

hey 316 you bigot jews can't win to you guys they are either have 'money' (not 'successful') or "low budget." (not 'both smart and charitable') If you want to only be with your own kind move to the appalachians b/c you spent so much on your suits your mortgage is going to be foreclosed

329's post must be a joke, right?

329 works at Seyfarth Shaw.

Serious question- I am tall (5'10) and have very long legs. I look nice it skirt suits and in heels but no matter how long the skirt is, it looks shorter relative because of my legs. Is that a serious problem? Should I thus go with pant suits only?

And, are black suits really bad for women? I had no idea...

Black connotes power. With women, it often makes you look like a king biyotch.

See if you can get the skirt taken out a bit. Might have another inch or two in.

Try and find a differently cut skirt too, rather than a pencil skirt.

On the vegan issue: Apparently all of Stella McCartney's shoes and handbags are vegan, made of other materials/resins/fabrics. I was surprised to learn of this high-end designer being animal-cruelty free.

this is the most ridiculous bunch of garbage i've ever read. the pretension, the self-absorption....what a bunch of tools...really. i wouldn't hire any of you.

this is the most ridiculous bunch of garbage i've ever read. the pretension, the self-absorption....what a bunch of tools...really. i wouldn't hire any of you.

@ 334 But plastic shoes aren't animal cruelty free. They're made of petroleum. You think the petroleum extracting, shipping, refining, and manufacturing processes are cruelty free?

114 is nuts... if you have a brioni or oxxford suit, by all means wear it. You have 15 minutes to communicate who you are and how you present yourself, and your clothes are going to be speaking as loudly as your words.

I have to admit that when I see a prospective employee who chose to wear a pantsuit instead of a skirt - knowing that career services almost surely repeatedly warned her to opt for the conservative route - I assume she's trying to make some kind of statement. I really don't care that much if a woman wears them on normal work days - and I wear things I wouldn't normally in an interview periodically (seersucker suits, bowties, colorful shirts or ties, etc.). But there's a certain structure and conventionality to the interview process, and if you transgress its boundaries, you better have a reason, because people will wonder why and infer their own answers.

Black suits are fine. Someone said black suits are "stylish", when the reality is pretty much the opposite - black suits are formal. They are the most formal kinds of suits you can wear (and note that tuxedos are black). That's why you wear them to funerals. And that's why, traditionally, you would wear them or a dark navy to a job interview. They're completely and utterly fine.

@ 340. No.

Black is for funerals or a fashion industry job. They are not for a professional. Charcoal or navy is much more appropriate.

A tuxedo is a completely different animal from a suit.

There is a lot of history behind men's clothing that still influences how people think. Black is never an appropriate interview suit color.

@ 340. No.

Black is for funerals or a fashion industry job. They are not for a professional. Charcoal or navy is much more appropriate.

A tuxedo is a completely different animal from a suit.

There is a lot of history behind men's clothing that still influences how people think. Black is never an appropriate interview suit color.

For those who think they know what they're talking about:

http://www.styleforum.net/showthread.php?t=73616&highlight=interview+suit

Put up or shut up.

About the pantyhose (209) - I probably shouldn't have, but I wore a conservative skirt suit w/out pantyhose most days of OCI and callbacks. Late August where I live is hot as hell, and pantyhose are torture. My overall appearance was put together and professional, and I don't think anyone noticed. I got more than enough callbacks and offers.