Jenny Adair 2m 415 #promotion
The views of this article are the perspective of the author and may not be reflective of Confessions of the Professions.
While your skills, knowledge and abilities should do the talking when it comes to securing a new job or promotion, the reality is that it’s often not enough. Arrive at an interview wearing a pair of scruffy jeans, converse in a comic T-shirt, and you’re likely to be shown the door before the first question has even been asked.
To ensure you’re in the right attire to best present yourself, we’ve put together this handy style guide for both men and women.
The suit
Suits have always been an interview essential and 2014 is no different. This season has seen an explosion in mismatching suits but we recommend keeping it classic with a subdued black, grey or navy suit.
This isn’t to say that you have to wave goodbye to style though. Fellas should opt for a suit with a subtle check to channel this season’s love of tartan, while ladies should choose a suit with an oversized blazer and tapered cigarette trousers for maximum style points.
Oh, and one more thing you should remember: make sure your suit fits! Wearing an ensemble that’s two sizes too big will make you look more like a child playing dress up than a high-flying business executive.
The shoes
Don’t forget about the shoes! Shoes say a lot about an individual and turning up with scuffed, worn and dated shoes will tell your potential employer one thing: that you’re not right for the job!
Gentlemen should opt for a subtly sophisticated brogue. Take a look at the range of formal shoes by Loake at Charles Clinkard for a fantastic selection of classically stylish shoes that will complement any suit.
Ladies have more choice when it comes to footwear. It goes without saying that towering platforms should be reserved solely for nightclub use, but heeled sandals like these from River Island are more appropriate. Of course, ballet pumps are always an option too.
The accessories
Interviews sometimes require you to present portfolios, qualifications and more. Avoid handing your potential employer a crumpled scrap of paper and file your documents in a stylish bag. Backpacks scream juvenile 
adventurer, so men should ditch them in favour of a stylish satchel: this one from Topman should do the trick. And finally, ladies should go for a simple, understated tote bag.
Once you’re all kitted out, all you have to do is knock them dead with your abilities — good luck!
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