Women's Interview Fashion: Tips & Tricks From The Rachel Zoe Collection

Searching for the perfect outfit to wear for interview season? You may be able to find it here!

Ed. note: It’s Biglaw interview season, and your friends here at Above the Law would like to give you the best fashion advice possible to ensure your success in the “new normal.” Today, we’ll be focusing on our female readers. This post is written by Mandana Dayani (USC Gould School of Law ’07), a former Paul Hastings associate who currently serves as Vice President and General Counsel of Rachel Zoe, Inc.

I will never forget the panic and angst surrounding on-campus interviews — the constant reformatting of résumés, the sudden competitiveness of your friends, the pressure of finding the right job, and for most of us, the daunting task of figuring out the perfect outfit that gives the best first impression. When it comes to interview attire, my advice is to present yourself with a look that does not detract from the focus of the meeting — you want to impress your potential boss with your sophistication and capability. Keep it classic, nothing too trendy or polarizing, and let your style come through with a couple of carefully selected accessories…

Rachel Zoe always says that a well-tailored suit exudes confidence and style, so we aim to send beautiful suiting down our runway every season (she has an unhealthy obsession with tuxedos). To get the look, try a modern take on a traditional silhouette. I love the Rachel Zoe Collection Finn blazer (1) — the soft leather lines have a modern and polished feel, which is appropriate for those interviewing with a less conventional firm. Paired with a matching cigarette pant, like the Barcelona cropped pant (2), this clean silhouette defines professional polish without appearing stuffy. When thinking about a shirting option, choose something that is soft and subtle like this Capri blouse (3). If you prefer to wear color, stick to a classic color palette. You’re better off in something that is a little safe but that fits well than something distracting — you can always add a fabulous necklace or scarf to add some interest.

For accessories, be sure to keep your jewelry very minimal — are you sensing a theme here? — and limit yourself to one piece that does not compete with your outfit, anything from a gold bangle to stackable rings. I prefer a simple and modern collar necklace (4), something to add just a little accent of gold to your neckline. Also, make sure your shoes are neat and well cared for. I would suggest a basic colored pump with a great heel and in a luxe fabric like the Valentina pump (5). For a more traditional firm, you should keep your heel height under two inches.

Your purse can be a safe opportunity to make a fashion statement, so I would suggest a classic silhouette in an exotic color or skin, and be sure to keep the hardware minimal. I love the snakeskin Hutton bag (6) — it is incredibly chic and can fit your laptop and all of your interview essentials.

Good luck!

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(All of the looks discussed above can be purchased by clicking the links next to their descriptions.)

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