Is a new career or job looming on the horizon? Just remember that landing a job typically requires an in-person interview, and that requires proper attire. But job interview clothes can be pricey, so here are some tips on how and where to find cheap, yet sophisticated, interview apparel.
Dress Conservatively.
True, there are industry-specific dress codes and the job you're gunning for may fall into the informal-dress camp. But the expert consensus holds across the board: Choose basic, conservative job interview clothes. Aim for neutral hues that complement your complexion and add a colorful accent or accessory. About.com stresses the importance of a neat and clean image because the initial impression you make is strongly influenced by your overall appearance.
Cheap Job Interview Clothes.
Finding job interview clothes is easy at retailers that offer budget-priced merchandise. Buy basics, such as shirts and blouses, from H&M, Kohl's, JC Penney, and Target; young women on the lookout for cheap job interview clothes should also check out Forever 21. Standard items such as undergarments and hosiery are available at Walmart, Target, and Kmart. Off-price retailers such as T.J. Maxx and Nordstrom Rack carry a more upscale selection of essential separates like skirts, pants, classic blazers, and even a statement top or tie. For quality shoes, scour the sale isles of DSW.
Repurposed Job Interview Clothes.
If you have time to hunt around, used clothing stores are a goldmine for interview clothing. Consignment shops lead the pack in overall clothing quality although prices might be a tad high. Donation centers, such as Goodwill and Salvation Army, are definitely worth a close look. These stores typically mirror the locale so head to those near affluent neighborhoods for deals on the best cheap job interview clothes.
Weather permitting, rummaging through yard sales and flea markets can prove rewarding. Similarly, click around the free section of an online virtual yard sale such as Craigslist or post a free ad in the "wanted" section. You can also snag deals on eBay and other auctions-oriented sites.
Putting It All Together.
Bright Hub notes that purchasing and combining separates into several different outfits is more economical and practical than buying job interview suits. A classy pencil skirt coupled with a conservative blouse or a pair of pleated pants matched with a tidy button-down shirt -- maybe add a blazer to each -- is less costly and, depending on the job, just as acceptable as a suit. Creating a wardrobe centered on interchangeable components maximizes both money and quantity.