After months of sending out countless resumes and cover letters, you’ve finally scored that elusive job interview. Now, the serious part: What to wear? Whether you’ve got the straight lines of a Ruler or have Hourglass curves, you’ll make a lasting first impression with these body-shape-friendly, office-worthy outfits, shoes and jewelry picks. And with the clothing stuff out of the way, you’ll be able to concentrate on wowing your new boss. Ready, set, work it!
QUIZ: Find Your Body Shape
Hourglass Body Shape
The interview outfit: No need to ooze Marilyn Monroe at your job interview—but you don’t have to hide your curvy figure either. This look is all lady-like professionalism with a stylish flair. The straight, to-the-knee skirt is sleek, not stuffy, thanks to its subtle print. The open cardigan gets a pulled-together vibe with the help of a flattering belt. Nailed it.
MORE: All About Women’s Body Shape
Banana Republic Heritage Ikat skirt, $98
Lightweight Open Cardigan, $89.50
Silk Safari Tank, $70
Lizard Embossed Belt, $39.50, at Banana Republic
Hourglass Body Shape
The jewelry: Your accessories shouldn’t outshine you and your job skills, so keep things simple with one pretty piece, such as this cheery bangle.
MORE: Dressing for Your Body Type
Classic Wide Bangle, $28, J.Crew
Hourglass Body Shape
The shoes: This sensible, yet still totally stylish 2 1/3-inch wedge heel is job interview appropriate with its rounded toe and neutral gray color, but the buckle detail shows you have some creative flair.
MORE: The Science of the Hourglass Body Figure
Nine West Gisalette, $59, at Nine West
Circle Body Shape
The interview outfit: A structured sheath dress helps slim down a Circle shape. Add dark color-blocking to the mid-section and get ready for a confidence surge as you head into your interview. Throw on a tailored black jacket or a simple black cardigan if the office environment calls for it and get ready to negotiate that new salary.
MORE: Body Shape and Attraction
White House Black Market Color Block Shift Dress, $158, at White House Black Market
Circle Body Shape
The jewelry: What, you worry? No way. Not with this "Not To Worry" bracelet that's simple and so appropriate for a high-stress job interview.
Dogeared Not To Worry Bead Bracelet, $38, Athleta
Circle Body Shape
The shoes: A classic, pointy-toe pump elongates those thin Circle body shape legs. The pale yellow color with a touch of stitching shows you mean business—but that you have a bit of a playful side, too.
MORE: Spring 2012 Fashion Trends for a Circle Body Shape
Rachel Roy Maysa pumps, $99, at Rachel Roy
Triangle Body Shape
The interview outfit: This polished pantsuit highlights a Triangle’s best assets. The jacket’s flattering cut and lightweight twill fabric, along with the curvy fit of the slacks that offer you a little extra room in the hip and thigh areas, ensure you’ll look—and feel—relaxed as your interviewer peppers you with questions.
MORE: Best-Dressed Celebrities for Their Body Shapes
Talbots Kate Fit Uptown Jacket, $169, and Curvy Fit Uptown Bootcut Pants, $109, at Talbots
Triangle Body Shape
The jewelry: Wear big, statement earrings to a job interview and your hiring team may remember your accessories more than you. Instead, keep things simple with small stud earrings and a modern, yet classic, necklace.
MORE: Body Type Exercises
Macy’s Studio Silver medallion necklace, $125, and 18k gold square hammered stud earrings, $75, at Macy’s
Triangle Body Shape
The shoes: When your suit is all business, it’s OK to show a little flair with your footwear. These eye-catching, closed-toe sling backs pack a lot of style for one accessory. Trust us, they’re worth the investment.
MORE: Spring 2012 Fashion Trends for a Triangle Body Shape
Ann Taylor Phillipa Leather Sling Backs, $228, at Anne Taylor
Ruler Body Shape
The interview outfit: Interviewing for a gig in a more creative field? Show your style while still staying professional with sharp, cropped slacks paired with a cardigan and topped with a fitted blazer. And don’t be afraid to go beyond basic black if the office environment is more relaxed.
MORE: Spring 2012 Fashion Trends for a Ruler Body Shape
Halogen stretch jacket, $58, Taylor crop pants, $34, V-neck cardigan, $30, and Caslon camisole, $18, at Nordstrom
Ruler Body Shape
The shoes: Even if you’re applying for a creative position, you still want to show some formality at a job interview. This classic pointy-toe pump, when done in a bright orangey-red, says you can handle the work with a winning wink.
MORE: Wedding Dresses for Ruler Body Shapes
Chinese Laundry Area pump, $79, at Piperlime
Inverted Triangle Body Shape
The interview outfit: Put the emphasis on your strong upper body with a bright blazer that’s relaxed, but not boxy. Add a slim-cut cropped pant in the summer to flatter your thin legs and we’re confident your confidence will shine through.
MORE: Is There an Ideal Waist-to-Hip Ratio?
JC Penney Worthington soft blazer, $35, and Modern-Fit Ankle Pants, $30, at JC Penney
Inverted Triangle Body Shape
The jewelry: Small earrings don’t have to be boring. This style works when you’re at the office and off-the-clock. In fact, we think they’ll be paying for themselves soon after you land your dream job.
MORE: Wedding Dresses for an Inverted Triangle Body
Ann Taylor Cabochon Earrings, $48, at Ann Taylor
Inverted Triangle Body Shape
The shoes: If you’re interviewing for a job that doesn’t require dark suits, black pumps and hosiery, slip on these chic, classic flats. This style is available in a half dozen colors, so you may opt for a more neutral tone for your initial meetings and then switch to something brighter (we love the crystal blue hue) for your first day.
MORE: Body Shape Guide
Madewell Suede Sidewalk Skimmer, $98, at Madewell
