Dress for Success: Career Fair Attire

The Professional Job Fair is only a few days away! Appropriate attire is a key ingredient to effectively navigating a career fair – after all, this is often an employer’s first impression of you! To help you prepare, we’ve compiled some tips on how to dress for success.

When attending a career fair, business professional attire is suggested.

Business professional attire for women:

Photo Courtesy of: Nordstrom.com

• Business suit in dark colors such as black, navy, or gray. If wearing a skirt suit be sure that the skirt is knee level or slightly above – no short skirts! Also, be sure to wear a tailored blouse underneath. Avoid low-cut tops.
• Closed-toe leather pumps with low to medium heels.
• Jewelry – generally, a good rule-of-thumb is no more than three pieces of jewelry (e.g., earrings, watch, and ring). Jewelry should be understated and appropriate for the workplace.
• In addition, make sure your make-up and nail polish is neutral and professional. 

Photo Courtesy of: Nordstrom.com

Business professional attire for men:

• Business suit in dark colors such as black, navy, or gray. 
• Long-sleeved starched oxford cloth shirt in white or light blue.
• Conservative necktie in color and pattern.
• Dress shoes – make sure your shoes are polished and well-maintained (i.e., no holes!).
• Over-the-calf dark socks.

Additional tips to remember:

• A friendly smile and eye contact will make you stand out!;
• Bring a briefcase or portfolio (no backpack);
• Well-groomed hairstyle - avoid unusual styles & colors;
• Wear minimal cologne or perfume;
• No visible body piercing or body art;
• Bring breath mints; use one before greeting recruiter. Do not chew gum!