OK, first let's start by saying that what you wear to events does make a difference. Most of the advice in this part is standardized across most businesses, and is a 'best practices' kind of advice. Some people will have differing opinions on some of this stuff - for example I know that some people insist on wearing a black suit. I'll cover it later, but standard business attire does not include black suits; but people can apply other standards at their own risk. My experience pertains only to men; I have no clue what is appropriate for women to wear at various events and there seems to be a lot more flexibility. I do have one suggestion though; I think women shouldn't have bare legs at business attire events. That's all I have to say about that, and it's just my opinion. The other stuff isn't my opinion; it's the rule (or at least think of it that way). My training and experience comes from two years of law firm recruiting, 2 years working at law firms on both coasts, close contact with lot's of bankers and consultants, and probably most importantly, a sorority house mother that instructed our chapter on etiquette - this was particularly important because failure meant not being invited back to the sorority house. Failure wasn't an option. Before we get into specifics, just keep this in mind when deciding on what to wear to recruiting events: there is absolutely no reason why anyone should ever remember what you wore to a recruiting event or interview. That's rule #1 I've heard this many many times, most recently over a chuckle with a guy from a top bank. This applies on all fronts; you don't want to dress poorly, but you also don't want to be the best dressed guy in the room. You want to look a little hungry. OK, on with the show. Suit Your suit should be charcoal gray or navy blue. If you don't know what this means, charcoal gray would apply to the 2-3 darkest shades that you can find at a suit store and navy blue is the shade that looks black under dim lighting. It does not mean any lighter shade of gray, it definitely doesn't mean royal blue, it doesn't mean brown or olive or anything like that. If you want a pinstripe or pattern, make sure it is really subtle. Really really subtle. Let me say that again, extremely subtle. Do not get chalk stripes, or wide pinstripes, or some type of noticeable plaid pattern on your suits. Just don't. I'd recommend getting at least two suits. Keep it simple and get one charcoal and one navy, one with a pinstripe and one without. Some people insist on wearing a black suit. Black is generally not considered business attire. GQ says no. I have heard from many different people that it makes you look like an undertaker or a G-man. Not everyone thinks this way, but please refer back up to the part where it says 'you should never be remembered for your clothes'. A lot of people won't care that you're wearing a black suit; a few people will. The few people that do remember may ding you. Yes, it's true. I have a friend who's been in consulting for about 9 years now. He dings people that wear black suits - they probably don't even know why. Your suit should be of high quality material, and should be tailored to your size. A good quality material is wool, that's it. Don't be the guy wearing a velvet jacket (yes I actually observed someone that did this a bunch of times last year). This doesn't mean it has to be really expensive - I've seen good discounted suits for $250. Try to avoid 'fashion' cuts, and unless you're European (or in Europe) avoid those types of cuts as well. Make sure you get it tailored so that it fits properly and looks good. If it's cut and tailored properly, it should feel very good when you put it on. Your pants should be cut so they don't drag on the ground, but don't show off your socks when standing. A good tailor will take care of this for you. Don't get mohair or sharkskin (shiny types); those are for throwing down on the dance floor, they aren't for recruiting. Unless you're close to 7 feet tall, your suit should have 2 or 3 buttons. In my opinion, the number of buttons should depend on how tall and wide you are. 3 buttons if you are tall, 2 buttons if you are short, and adjustments based on if you are lean or fat. Your suit should not have 4 or 5 buttons (unless you're extremely tall); your suit should not have 1 button (unless you're attending a black tie event because that's a tuxedo jacket). You should never ever carry anything in the front pockets of your suit. This isn't a problem for many suits because the front pockets are not real pockets; but even if they are real pockets do not put anything in them. Speaking of pockets, if you have a huge wallet or phone, put it in the interior pocket of your jacket. Don't have a huge bulging wallet on your @ss (consider taking some stuff out). Shirt I'm going to give you my personal advice on this subject, and it's something that has evolved over the course of the fall recruiting season. I would suggest sticking with basic white, light blue, ecru and other solid, basic colored shirts. I used to think it was OK to wear a striped shirt and the occasional French cuff, but I've come to believe that these are best avoided during recruiting. Save them until you've landed the job. Note: there is no such thing as a short-sleeve dress shirt. OK, that's all I'm going to say about that. Your shirt sleeve should be long so that 1/2-1 inch shows from beneath your suit. If you're getting ready to attend business school, I recommend getting measured - any decent department store or menswear store would be happy to do this for you. The neck shouldn't choke you, but if it's too loose it will look sloppy. Get measured so you can buy stuff that fits right. It will look a lot better. Back to the colors and patterns. As recruiting wore on, it was really just a whole lot easier to stick with a solid shirt with basic colors. You can get away with wearing a striped shirt, but as I dressed up for event after event day after day, it just dawned on me, why bother? It's really not worth the effort trying to get coordinated and it's just easier to stick with basic white, blue or ecru. Frenched cuffs (with cuff links) are probably a bad idea for recruiting - they can draw attention which violates rule #1. DO NOT wear shirts with white collar and cuffs. I remember a briefing where a guy wore a royal blue shirt with white collar and Frenched cuffs; he also decided to wear some plaid pants and I'm not kidding, in a room full of peoplein dark suits he looked like a clown. Literally. People still remember it. You don't want to be that guy. Tie You have some flexibility with the tie that you choose. I have some tips that you might find useful, but it's up to you to decide. First, try to avoid anything that is really shiny. For some reason, people that don't wear suits often seem to select shiny ties. Don't do that. I'd also avoid anything that is really gold or predominantly black. They just seem to reflect poorly in recruiting situations. The other basic advice relates to how you should put it together. There are 3 key pieces to business attire (suit, shirt and tie) and there are three basic patterns (solid, stripe, circle/dot). Generally try to avoid selecting the same pattern for all three pieces. For example, don't wear a pinstripe suit, and striped shirt and a striped tie. It just looks funny. If you're wearing a solid suit and shirt, go with a slightly (and I mean slightly) more unusual tie. If you're wearing a pinstripe suit, then go with a conservative tie. After you put it together, just ask yourself, 'is this tie making me stick out'? The final thing about ties is that your knot should be tight and tidy. For some reason, people of certain cultures like to tie really strange looking knots. There's an Italian guy I know. I have no doubt that he's got a lot more style than me, and that his clothes are really nice; but he refuses to tighten his the knot on his tie. He basically just slips it through, and that's it. It looks really really sloppy, and I notice that when talking with him, it's impossible not to stare at his tie. That's bad. Generally avoid bid ostentatious knots like full Windsors. Just go with your basic four-in-hand (I think that's what it's called) and put a dimple in the middle. You'll look classy, neat and tidy. That's exactly how you want to look. Shoes/Socks/Belt Wear lace-ups. Do not wear loafers. Again, this seems to be a cultural thing, but some groups really like to wear loose fitting loafers. I really really really advise against this. It looks really sloppy and not business-like. Certainly, there are some loafers that are tight-fitting and classy, but I've definitely seen more mistakes than hits with people that wear loafers. Unless you're a managing director or law firm partner, do not wear tassled loafers and for the love of god, don't wear shoes with buckles. For lace-ups, avoid fancy patterns like wingtips. Go with a plain toe, capped toe or perhaps split toe. Make sure the leather is high quality and shines up nicely. Make sure your shoes are shined and polished regularly; it really does make a difference. Your shoes should be black. Let's just leave it at that. You can wear whatever you want once you have the job, but for the purposes of recruiting and interviewing, just wear black shoes. Your socks should be black. Really black. In fact, if your socks are faded from washing, get some new black socks. They should go far enough up your calves so that when you sit down and your pants ride up a little, you do not bear any skin. Black, long, that's it. No more talk about socks. Your belt should be black. It should have a plain silver or gold buckle. By plain I mean really basic. Your belt should fit pretty snuggly; you definitely don't want something that flops or shifts around. OK, that's all there is to know about belts for recruiting. When to Wear What Okey dokey, so now you know how to put together some effective business attire. The next question is, when should you use it? At the early on-campus briefings and presentations, you don't need to wear a suit. Wear a nice shirt and slacks and try not to stand out too much. Later invite only events will often specify what you should wear. If they don't say specifically, make an educated guess based on the type of event, time of day and who you anticipate will be attending. Here are some terms you'll likely encounter: Casual - this doesn't really mean wear whatever you want. It's a recruiting event so wear slacks and and a nice (clean and pressed) shirt. If it's really hot (and it could be early in the recruiting season), a nice polo shirt should be alright. It depends on the event, of course. If you're playing golf, be dressed for that, etc. Business Casual - these days, this seems to mean suit and coat, but no tie. In a broader sense, businesses generally think of business casual as slacks and shirt, and possibly even polo shirt, but for recruiting events, business casual really doesn't mean polo shirt. Business Formal - Generally you'll get this for sit-down dinner type events. This means suit and tie. It's really important to look business-like when this is specified, so don't get cute. Business Attire - Kind of between business casual and business formal. I'd just go with suit and tie in most cases. If the event is in the afternoon or in a very casual setting, I might go without the tie. Any events at the firm's offices - wear a suit and tie. This applies even if you're invited there for lunch, or if you're just doing informational interviews. What about firms that are casual? - You should always, at minimum, wear slacks and a pressed shirt (or polo shirt if it's really hot). It doesn't matter if you're interviewing with Apple and Steve Jobs doesn't wear socks. That doesn't mean you should go without socks. I was reviewing for an interview I have with Google - their website specifically says that while their dress is casual, people interviewing should wear business attire. Once you become CEO, you can wear your underwear outside your pants if you want. Until then, keep it basic and tidy. Alright, that's about it for what to wear. I know I'm forgetting some stuff, so I'll add it as it comes to me. Everyone should add their input as well. Remember, we're talking about recruiting and schmoozing, so it really doesn't matter how you, as an individual, likes to dress for your job. Remember rule #1. Next up, I think we'll cover etiquette, manners and respecting your classmates. links to parts 1 & 3 https://gmatclub.com/forum/guide-to-recruiting-and-schmoozing-part-58003.html https://gmatclub.com/forum/guide-to-recruiting-and-schmoozing-part-3-etiquette-59520.html

Knowing what to wear and when to wear it is anything but camp. Two or three button.

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Guide to Recruiting and Schmoozing - Part 2 - What to wear

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kryzak

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15 Jan 2008, 21:15

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ahh, yes, they're "bicycle tips"! I really like that pattern.

How formal are those designs compared to wing tips and cap toes? Just bought a whole new set of shoes (spent so much money...) recently, but since I hate laces, I got all slip-in style. Oh well, not like I'm doing banking or consulting interviews any time soon. =)

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15 Jan 2008, 23:10

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Hmm, this thread is turning very very camp :-D

Surely the shoe itself doesn't matter as long as it looks smart. No one goes round staring at your shoes assessing the minute details. If they did, surely that would not be a person you would like to work for?

"I'm sorry, but you will not be receiving an offer from our company because you wore wing tip rather than cap toe shoes" :-D

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16 Jan 2008, 04:53

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If you read any guide to meeting people, schmoozing, or interviewing, it will tell you that after your face, the first thing that people will notice is your shoes. For example, in the US, wearing tassled loafers means something - it's the traditional footwear of top lawyers and it's and image you don't want to project as someone looking for a job.

The bottom line is that people will in fact notice your shoes, so you just want something that is serious and professional - ironically you want to select something that makes people think you didn't worry too much about your shoes. You definitely don't want something that screams 'I'm high maintenance' or 'I'm difficult' or 'I like to dress pretty rather than professional'.

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18 Jan 2008, 23:10

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Hey! what type of coat/jacket is suitable for a suit?

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19 Jan 2008, 18:44

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togafoot

Hmm, this thread is turning very very camp :-D

Knowing what to wear and when to wear it is anything but camp.

togafoot

Hey! what type of coat/jacket is suitable for a suit?

Two or three button.

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19 Jan 2008, 18:47

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riverripper

Hey I have a pair of those Allen Edmonds wingtips. Actually are very comfortable for dress shoes and extremely well constructed. I need another pair of dress shoes to replace my plain old black ones which have seen better days.

I'm thinking about picking up a pair. Allen Edmonds is really the best bang for your buck as far as shoes go. To move up noticeably in quality, you have to make a huge price jump.

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19 Jan 2008, 19:08

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This is probably off-topic, but do you guys have recommendations for dress shoes that cost < $100?

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19 Jan 2008, 20:36

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Try Florsheim or Rockport.

msday86

This is probably off-topic, but do you guys have recommendations for dress shoes that cost < $100?

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msday86

This is probably off-topic, but do you guys have recommendations for dress shoes that cost < $100?

Hi,
Perhaps you may wish to find a better price rather than a cheaper pair of shoes. This may not be an option if you are pressed for time but is great if you have the luxury of planning ahead. Two options to buying a cheap pair of shoes are thrifting and playing the discount game. The key to either is to know ahead of time what item you want (i.e., brand and model) and your exact fit in that shoe. This knowledge opens the key to shopping online, taking advantage of retailers emailing you advance notice of sales, new shoes on fleabay etc..

When you visit the big shoe store to shop and try on shoes (so you know your size etc.) pick your salesperson carefully. Avoid the young fellow who's pants are pooling about his ankles and deal instead with the middle aged career salesperson. Try on several pairs of shoes including something that you intend to buy. Buy them and get the person's card. When the store emails you that advance notice call and deal with that person. "I really appreciated you help last time, I understand you're having a sale, could you see if you have X in 9.5D..." The best stuff (especially if you are a common size) disappears quickly and a relationship with SA will assist with getting it held. Eventually this relationship can get stuff put aside for you before the sale, calls when something you want becomes available etc..

Help!

kryzak

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20 Jan 2008, 03:09

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cheap but good quality dress shoes: Clarks and Bostinian Outlets. I swear by those shoes, and unless someone is a shoe critic, there's nothing to nitpick about those shoes.

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Updated on: 18 Aug 2010, 17:49

Originally posted by kidderek on 24 Jan 2008, 09:21.
Last edited by kidderek on 18 Aug 2010, 17:49, edited 1 time in total.

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pelihu

Technically, socks should be darker than your suit, and lighter than your shoes. For interviews, your suit should be the darkest shade of navy blue (which looks black under most lighting) or charcoal gray. If you can find a shade between these and your black shoes (you're going to be wearing black shoes aren't you?), then go for it. For the purposes of interviewing, black socks works best, because there just aren't many shades between navy blue and black.

Good stuff Pel.

I can't even picture in my head socks being darker than shoes. Just so wrong. Anyway, your socks should match your pants. While the bottom of your pants is moving around, your color-matching socks give a more consistent view of your pant leg.

If your socks match your shoes, but not your pants, it looks like you're wearing boots.

But for all intents and purposes, Pelihu's advice was to be fool-proof, hence the black socks to match the dark shade of charcoal/navy suits.

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27 Feb 2008, 22:01

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I have two questions that were not addressed:

1. What is your opinion of dress shirt collar style? There are three basic styles: button-down, point collar, and spread collar. My opinion is that spread collar is a little too flashy and looks best with a large knot. Button-down vs. point collar seems to be a matter of personal preference. The button-down seems to be a little more traditional, and it is the style I have always worn; however, I am thinking of switching to point collar based on what I see business/political leaders wearing.

2. Does it matter if the suit jacket is central or side vent?

Thanks.

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06 Mar 2008, 07:24

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maverick2011

1. I always believe that point collar is more formal and appropriate for business attire than button down.

2. I don't think the vents matter. It is a matter of personal preference. The functionality of them is for when you're sitting. I prefer side vents since they seem "neater" to me.

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06 Mar 2008, 09:32

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Definitely avoid a button down collar. That is not considered business formal, though sometimes you seem people wearing them on business casual days. They just look really sloppy when combined with a tie. You have some options when it comes to a point collar, but definitely always use collar stays (sometimes called collar bones) to make sure they are straight.

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06 Mar 2008, 12:35

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How to dress for a career forum.
GUYS:
-Something wrinkled , unmatched that will CLEARLY state "My mother no longer dresses me. I am independent."
-Try not to shave - or it will look like you are trying too hard.
-Be sure you BADLY need a haircut - or it will look like you are trying too hard.
-Don't comb your hair - or it will look like you are trying too hard.
-Either mangle your tie, or don't wear one - it will help you be memorably compared to all those other fools wearing suits.

GIRLS:
-Tightest, thinnest shirt you can find, and also made with the least cloth possible to leave nothing to the imagination. Shoot for extremely revealing of cleavage, and plenty of skin. Think "skankerchief".
-Worlds tightest skirt, about 8" in length.
-Worlds tallest, heels, about 8" in length.
-Be sure your "shirt", "skirt", and "shoes" are black, that makes it classy. Any other color would be trashy.

I saw a few examples of each of these at a forum for jobs with Japanese companies - IN JAPAN mixed in with the thousands of appropriately dressed folks. Cause, you know, those corporations in Japan are SUPER casual.

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06 Mar 2008, 13:19

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westsider

In the club, during my early 20s.

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07 Mar 2008, 03:33

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love spread collar (we call it shark collar). Don't think its flashy at all. Needs a decent tie knot though.

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03 Apr 2008, 07:09

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A pretty informative thread on b-week (I KNOW!!??) about suits/dressing up for interviews.

https://forums.businessweek.com/n/pfx/forum.aspx?tsn=1&nav=messages&webtag=bw-bschools&tid=75219

maverick2011

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04 Apr 2008, 06:35

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dosa_don

A pretty informative thread on b-week (I KNOW!!??) about suits/dressing up for interviews.

https://forums.businessweek.com/n/pfx/forum.aspx?tsn=1&nav=messages&webtag=bw-bschools&tid=75219

I agree with all of that except for the pleats vs. flat fronts. Pleats are not "80's and 90's". They are traditional and therefore not out of style. To me, it is a personal preference decision similar to 2 vs. 3 button jackets. For some people (me included), flat front pants do not suit their body type.

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22 Apr 2008, 17:37

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A vicious, albeit extremely entertaining account of what Private Equity guys wear:

https://www.leveragedsellout.com/2007/04/only-87-tool/
(warning: rife with elitism)

Sample quote:

CLOTHES
Suit: Hickey Freeman suit, $2,749 (+1 for overpaying). “I have about 10 suits and usually buy them at Hickey Freeman and Paul Stuart (+1). I have two really heavy pin-stripe suits that I’d classify as ‘power suits.’ Bankers never wear double-breasted suits, it’s a fashion faux pas (+1 for French). I get all of my suits tailored in Rochester, N.Y (-2 for going somewhere north of 86th street that’s not The Hamptons). There is a Romanian couple that have been doing my father’s suits for years. They are trusted in the family, and 10 times better than any of the tailors I’ve used in the city.” (We know that family: Ionescu. All the legit tailors in that lineage are still in Romania. -5 for not flying them over personally.)