Clothes don’t make the man. In job interviews, however, they just might. So, do today’s job hunters put more effort into dressing up? Not necessarily, and not all the time. A U.S.A Today article reports that while today’s job seekers are younger, more aggressive, and more qualified, they often lose out to older, more conservative applicants. The reason: they go to job interviews wearing jeans, pink sweat suits, sneakers, or even blue mullets. Some even sport with piercings and tattoos, and actually greet recruiters, “Whazzup?”

Does it really pay to dress up for an interview? Yes, and you should not believe anyone or anything that tells you otherwise. No matter what you are applying for, it makes sense to dress your best for interviews. After all, you want to show the interviewer you not only have the right skills, you have the right image, too.

Suiting Up

As a rule of thumb, you should err on the side of conservatism when it comes to job interview fashion. For women, solid colors and conservative cuts are de rigeur. Shoes must be in basic colors, and hosiery must either be tan or lightly colored. Make-up and perfume should be minimal. Nails must be manicured, and jewelry must be limited to earrings and a watch, a necklace and a watch, or a single article of jewelry at a time. Pull the look together with a portfolio or a rolling briefcase.

For men, the same rule in suits holds. White long sleeved shirt must be worn underneath, and must be paired with a conservative tie. Dark socks, dark shoes, neatly trimmed nails, and a neat hairstyle complete the attire. Cinch the deal with men’s briefcase, the classiest means for carrying papers around.

Pantsuit Versus Skirtsuit

Experts and employers are heavily split on the appropriateness of wearing pantsuits to an interview. To be safe, go for a skirted suit. Conservative dark navy and gray wool give the impression of dependability. Red makes a striking statement. Beige and brown invite trust.

What of the skirt length, blouse color, and shoe height? The skirt should be a little past the knee. Blouses may either be silk or cotton, and must be white, cream, or some light color. Shoes, on the other hand, should have low heels.

In a job interview, first impressions are critical. In the same way a passport cover does not change the stamps on your passport, the quality of your suit does not give more meat to your resume. However, it sure would help you appear better to prospective employers.