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!
1Hourglass 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
2Hourglass 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
3Hourglass 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
4Circle 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
5Circle 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
6Circle 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
7Triangle 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
8Triangle 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.
Macy’s Studio Silver medallion necklace, $125, and 18k gold square hammered stud earrings, $75, at Macy’s
9Triangle 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
10Ruler 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
11Ruler Body Shape
The jewelry: A sophisticated watch in an unexpected hue adds just the right amount of pop to your outfit.
MORE: How Weight and Waist-Hip-Ratio Relate to Health
Viscid watch, $58, at Anthropologie
12Ruler 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
13Inverted 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
14Inverted 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
15Inverted 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
