The Perfect Interview Outfit

Just as the summer heats up, fall fashions begin their trickle onto retailers’ shelves. But instead of buying the season’s trendy leather motorcycle jackets (so chic!) or designer acid wash denim (rockin’!), many women are getting a start on fall with practical pieces for the office. Why now? With the joblessness rate at 9.5%, a 26-year high, a share of that percentage are women who are either not working or hoping they don’t end up on the “redundancy list.”

 These savvy shoppers are seeking interview outfits that will impress prospective (and current) employers and ensembles that set them apart from the throngs of others in search of new jobs.

In Pictures: Interview Outfits For The Right Price

Carefully constructing the perfect interview outfit is worth the effort: It can be a deciding factor in whether or not you pass muster with an interviewer.

“That first impression on an interview counts so much, and you don’t want to be out of the race before the interview even begins,” says Sherry Maysonave, who runs Empowerment Enterprises, an Austin, Texas, image consulting firm. “That [first impression] happens in less than 30 seconds and is based entirely upon your attire.”

An interview means business

There are some fashion no-no’s that should always be followed. Don’t show too much skin (particularly cleavage), wear closed toe shoes and avoid sleeveless tops and dresses. Job hunters also shouldn’t look too trendy or wear in-your-face designer labels.

Aside from these basic rules, Lauren Solomon, a New York corporate image adviser, says, “For the interview, tone down but don’t hold back. Women should show an element of their personal style.”

Your homework counts

All women should follow a basic checklist when preparing an interview outfit. Solomon suggests doing research on the company where you are interviewing. “You really need to know what the company stands for, what the company’s dress policy is and how the current employees are presenting themselves,” she says. This research should help you to find an outfit that fits with the company’s culture.

But even if you learn that many employees dress casually, stay on the conservative side. You want to communicate that you respect the interview process and are eager to land the job you’re applying for.

A polished look matters

Avoid looking frumpy. Make sure your attire fits well and is pressed. Adding a pop of color to your 

outfit–say, a scarf or earrings–will help you appear cheerful and positive to prospective employers. Remember, also, to wear minimal makeup and groom your hair neatly.

What you wear to a job interview can have a lasting impact, even if you end up with the job. “Your interview attire indicates your socioeconomic status and it can actually impact your salary offer,” Maysonave says. “If someone looks like they need a job they are probably not going to get it. And they are definitely not going to get the same offer that someone with a polished look will.”

Finding that perfect interview outfit that is put together and sophisticated doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are few tips for dressing for an interview on a budget.

Under $100 dollars

Finding an attractive interview outfit for under $100 isn’t as difficult as it may seem. The best strategy is to shop at several low-priced retailers to find chic basics that mix and match with more expensive signature pieces. It’s worth the extra effort and you’re savings account will thank you. Uniqlo carries stylish sweaters and tops, Forever 21 is a great place to pick up chic and inexpensive skirts and head to H&M for designer-inspired blazers ripped from the runways.

Under $250 dollars

If you have a bit more money to spend on an interview outfit, find a chic dress that you will be able to dress up or down to get the best bang for your buck. Pair it with a basic cardigan or blazer to complete your professional look. Not only will you score points with your prospective employer, you will have a cocktail outfit waiting in the wings. Stores like Banana Republic and J.Crew are great stores to start your search for a power dress, but don’t forget to check out designer diffusion lines like Rachel Roy’s collection for Macy’s , which is debuting this fall, and Vera Wang’s line for Kohl’s , Simply Vera.

Under $500 dollars

Those who have even more to spend on that perfect interview outfit should avoid buying a suit and instead invest in a luxurious but understated accessory, like a bag or a pair of shoes–two of the hardest items to buy on a strict budget. Not only would either item jazz up a basic interview outfit, but both can be worn in numerous ways long after the interview is over. Slip on the same heels you wore in the afternoon with dress pants and pair them with jeans for a night out. Stuart Weitzman and Via Spiga are known for interview shoes with a trendy edge. And for bags look to designers Rebecca Minkoff, Botkier and Foley & Corinna.