Starter wardrobe should be built on classics

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Dear Joan:
My daughter has just graduated from college and she is looking for a job in business (she has a business degree and a minor in computers). She doesn't have a suitable wardrobe for job interviewing and we are ready to go out and buy some professional clothes.

Our question is, what is considered proper interview attire? I haven't been in the work world for many years and I'm not sure what is appropriate. Are the rules relaxing somewhat from the formal blue suit that was so popular a few years ago? She has a tight budget but I plan to chip in on some purchases.

Could you also comment on hair, make-up and jewelry? Thank you in advance.

Answer:
A starter wardrobe is the foundation around which all her future career clothes should be built. Rather than buying quantity, I'd concentrate on quality; picking out a few classic pieces that can be coordinated. If I were to take your daughter shopping, here's what I'd buy:

Shopping List:
Suits: Two or three suits made of the finest, gabardine wool I could find. Gabardine looks rich, lasts forever and can be worn all year, except for the hottest days. In summer months and in warmer climates, fine wool can be found in tropical weights.

The style of the suits would be classic. No dramatic lapels or faddish lines. A single or double-breasted jacket is a good, timeless choice and the skirt should be no shorter than the middle of the knee.

I would choose solid colors, since plaids and checks tend to go in and out of style. Ideally, they should be able to mix and match: For instance, three suits in navy, gray and creme or burgundy would coordinate well. Dark suits are a good idea, since a young person can look more mature in a dark color and they're easy to build upon. However, there isn't a strict rule about color...if she finds a light colored suit that looks great on her, grab it, but be certain it doesn't make her look too young.

Choose suits that don't look too dressy. Beadwork, cut-out lapels, piping, fringe and other ornamental additions don't work at work.

Blouses:
Three or four blouses that can be enough to get you started. There are a lot of choices here but some things to avoid are, low necklines, cheap-looking stitching, inexpensive looking fabric and a fit that's too tight. Although silk is luxurious, the dry cleaning can be a burden on a tight budget. Instead, try some of the new polyester fabrics that look just like silk but are washable.

Shoes:
High heels aren't seen in most offices these days; comfortable, two-inch heels are the norm.

Hair:
If your daughter's hair is long, I'd suggest she wear it back in a clip (no fluffy bows-only tailored ones). Long hair hanging over her eyes or elaborately done up will be distracting. Smooth and simple styles are the best bet, whether they are long or short.

Make-up:
Subtle colors only. Elaborate eye-liner and ultra- long nails look out of place in an office.

Jewelry:
Pair it down for the interview. A simple necklace and classic earrings (no larger than the iris of her eye or they'll be distracting). Some of the simple but elegant gold and silver toned jewelry will work well with the classic suits.

Briefcase/Purse:
Make sure the purse and briefcase are of high enough quality so they match the suit. A shabby canvas purse or a scratched and worn leather bag will ruin the look you've worked so hard to achieve.