Dressing up for Interviews

I just started university again after a two week break, and during that time I've went to a few of my friends' graduations. So what happens next? I assume they jump into the nauseating grind of the job search, so here's a little advice to give yourself a little confidence boost when planning what to wear for your job interviews. There is nothing better then walking into an interview prepared and confident; I can't really help with you being prepared but here's some advice I use when getting ready for any interviews.

LOOK PROFESSIONAL!

Pretty obvious right? This being said, looking professional doesn't really help that much but doesn't hurt. However, dressing poorly can potentially make or break the interview. Most interviewers don't notice how we dress, except when it's distracting. The aim of the interview is to hire someone that can do the job and work in teams to do that job, and the way we dress is not an indication of your ability to do these things.

So, what does it mean to dress professionally? That really depends on the job you're applying for, most professional positions working behind the desk will require a suit, while some will only require a simple button up shirt and dress trousers or Chinos. The trick is not to overdress, getting information about the typical dress code in the office before hand helps out a lot. Jobs that require you to meet clients may be more impacted the way you choose to dress so think about the industry!

For suits, I recommend a conservative 2-button dark grey or dark blue suit, with either black or dark brown shoes, a simple striped tie, and a standard white collared shirt. The idea is to keep it conservative, keeping jewelry to a minimum (cuff links etc).


For jobs that do not require a suit, a simple white or blue collared shirt tucked into dress trousers or chinos and a pair of black or dark brown shoes. Go for a blazer if you want that sharper look, but not necessary. Minimal is best, wear what's comfortable.

The entire point is, what you're wearing is so standard that the interviewer can ignore what you are wearing and focus on your resume, personality and how you answer questions. Still, it can't hurt to walk into the interview with confidence and putting some effort into what you wear will definitely help.

Hope the advice helps!
Wei

Winter is coming!

Woke up this morning, freezing, winter is finally coming, and as the only male blogger on this fashion blog, I feel it's necessary for to show off various options for guys when it comes to outerwear (Coats, jackets, etc.) during the winter months to come.

Despite how little variations are available to us guys when compared with the ladies' collections, do not lose hope! We have a quite few versatile choices to tide us over these winter months ranging from leather jackets to toggle coats, depending on the look you're going for. I'll will be focusing on my favourites, leather jackets and pea coats.

I feel that richer darker colours really fit and complement the winter. So colours like blacks, browns, darker reds and maroons, grays  and navy blue work well and can be well balanced with lighter colours like ivory, olive greens, or tan colours.

Classic Leather Jacket

Leather jackets have not and will never go out of fashion and is the perfect addition to any fall/winter (guys and girls!) wardrobe. Windproof and practical, this is great choice and goes with most outfits, I personally prefer a black leather jacket but the classic brown should definitely not be overlooked.

Faded Black Denim Pea Coat by Ralph Lauren

Originating from sailors and members of the European Navy, the pea coat has become a staple for most guys' fall/winter wardrobe. Pea coats are easily recognised by broad lapels, double-breasted fronts, large buttons and vertical or slash pockets. Typically easy to wear with most outfits and will definitely keep you warm while looking your best. I bought a great one on sale from H&M and I have not regretted it since!

There are many other choices available such as 

• Quilted Jackets
• Tweed Sportscoats
• Corduroy Sportscoats
• Wool Blazers
• Quilted Vests
• Down Vests
• Chesterfield Coats
• Down Coats
• Car Coats
• Duffle Coats
• Toggle Coats
• Parkas
• Fleece Jackets
• Overcoats
• Fishtail Parkas
• Mackintosh Coats

These can be chosen based on the style you're aiming for and are all valid choices for any fall/winter wardrobe and the colour choices I mentioned above applies to these as well.
Anyways, hope this helps and as usual take my advice with a pinch of salt. See you next Monday!

Wei

Man up, Suit up.

So, few weeks ago we had a formal dinner in my college.  People were dressing up, girls in dresses and heels, and guys in suits and ties.  Let me repeat – SUITS AND TIES. 

There’s always something about guys in suits that makes me melt a little inside, especially when that special someone dons it.  So some may ask, how does a complete suit look like? 

Well, there are four main criteria to take into consideration – colour, pattern, material and context.  The colour of the suit should be a matching fit, and soothing to the eyes.  The pattern of a suit should just be light and simple, nothing over the border.  Personally, plain suits win hands down.  Another importance of a suit would be the material. It can be smooth or slightly rough.  It all depends on the look that you are trying to pull off.  Classy, or a little old school.  Next up, context.  The thing about suits is that people always think that it’s only meant for formal events but they don’t realize how combining different styles of suits would make a it suitable for any occasion.  Sometimes all you need to do is mix and match and you’ll end up with the perfect suit for any occasion.

Classic Perfection

A simple taste

Take this advice with a pinch of salt.  I hope it helps.

Sheryl.