Fun fact: these are the only pants I've ever owned that I don't hate. They're dress pants from Target that I bought about two years ago for when I had to look professional for presentations in classes, and I secretly sometimes wish for an excuse to wear them.
I wore this to an interview on Friday, and I wanted to share my process in choosing it. Most of the interviews I've had in the past few months have been over the phone, but the ones that I get that do require going into an office always find me in a tricky situation. I'm going into a creative field and I'm often interviewing for a job that's fashion related in some way, which means that I not only need to look professional, but I also need to wear something that's trendy and shows off my personality. It's a weird situation to put together an outfit for. For this particular interview last week, I met with the editor of an entertainment/fashion related publication with a very young audience, so I felt it was important to wear something a little fun that was also appropriate. To add to my struggle in choosing something, I had the interview confirmed less than two days prior and remembered that I had left my only blazer in a friend's car and was with her in San Diego. After realizing that, I took a look at the nude flats I normally wear on interviews and saw that they were basically falling apart. Cue the panic attack.
Fortunately, I had these pants and this top, which I thought was a great piece that demonstrated my personal style, but also looked appropriate. I headed to TJ Maxx, Target, and Khol's to look for a blazer and a pair of shoes. I surprisingly found it difficult to find a blazer, and seeing as I'm short on cash and do actually own a blazer (even if it's not currently with me), I decided to go without one. I wouldn't normally go without some sort of jacket or cardigan, but for this kind of company and interview, I knew I could get away with it. I did end up getting this pair of heels, which are a much-needed addition to my shoe collection as I enter the professional world. The only problem? I did not have nearly enough time to break them in, and I wound up suffering for it the day of the interview. I might have even put myself through pain as I put them on again later that day to take these photos, blisters and all. I regret everything.
As for the interview itself, I felt like it went well, but I don't want to jinx anything. I've had multiple interviews in the past few months that I've felt good about, but ended up not getting. I do also have another freelance gig in the works that could lead into something full-time, so things are possibly happening for me. I don't want to elaborate until I actually have something locked down, but I'm feeling much better about the job hunt than I have in months.
One last thing before I end this already too-long post: I saw Louis CK live on Sunday, and it was just as perfect as you'd expect. He came to the show straight from the Golden Globes, and his set was amazing. He continues to be the absolute best at what he does, and I'm so happy I got to experience a show on his very short tour.
Top: Modcloth
Pants: Target
Heels: Khol's
What a great idea for a post! Interviewing for creative jobs can be more casual, but stressful in the sense you want to nail the balance of professionalism and showing personal style. When I was interviewing for design jobs, there was a girl with a corporate background telling me I should get more professional clothes, and I'm so glad I didn't listen because I felt more like myself in the interviews. I think you totally nailed it! You look so stylin' & profesh! Sounds like you have a lot of good stuff in the works- can't wait til we can hear more about it!
ReplyDeleteUGH job hunting is never easy (or fun), especially as a new grad. It's also so stressful to dress for interviews!
ReplyDeleteEverything will fall into place, but I know it's easy to say that.
The outfit that you did end up wearing looks great though!
Jackie
Something About That
I do hope that you are successful in getting a job you love very soon. I know that the process is very stressful. I returned to work about 18 months ago after both my children were at School and came up against the need for a corporate look.
ReplyDeleteIn the front office its a white blouse and black skirt or trousers (pants). I was a skirts/dresses only person until just over a year ago when my friends persuaded me to buy some pants and now I wear them quite often in cold weather.
Good interview outfits are so tricky! This one feels very stylish though. Good luck, as always, in the job hunt!
ReplyDeleteI think this is a great interview outfit! It's professional and I think the dark red color adds interest, as does the Peter Pan collar! Good luck! I hope you get a call back!
ReplyDelete~Sara
These pants look wonderful on you and I think you nailed the interview look. You're a babe and I hope you get a job soon!
ReplyDeleteWhoa, I need to find these pants! They look amazing on you Elana - love the tailored look. Such an adorable top too. Perfect interview outfit! Hopefully you get it :)
ReplyDeleteThe Dragonfruit Diaries
I'm not sure I've even seen pants on you. Haha. Looking good though, nonetheless. I hope the interview went well! Sending you good vibes. :)
ReplyDelete