This Is What You Should (and Shouldn’t) Be Wearing to Nail That Big Interview

There’s probably nothing more exciting (or nerve-wracking, for that matter) than scoring an interview for your dream job — you go, girl! Your stellar resume (which boasts some seriously amazing summer internships — just sayin’) will no doubt give you an edge over the competition, but what will really win ‘em over is a little confidence. Of course, that’s easier said than done. Interviews can sometimes feel like you’re standing on trial with question after excruciating question being thrown your way. It’s enough to send anyone’s nerves into overdrive. Luckily, it’s nothing a little sartorial intervention can’t fix. You know — the whole dress to impress thing. To help you find your way around the in’s and out’s of interview dressing, we’ve pulled together 15 work wardrobe essentials — sleek skirts, fancy flats and stylish jackets with go-get-‘em appeal — that will help you look the part and put those OMG-what-am-I-doing freakout sessions to rest.

1. C/meo Collective Charged Up Skirt ($190): No work wardrobe is complete without at least one office-ready pencil skirt on hand. A classy alternative to the expected shift dress or pants, a pencil skirt has a fierce, feminine aesthetic that exudes don’t-mess vibes. Skip figure-hugging styles that have the potential to ride up (you don’t want to spend the entire interview adjusting your getup), and ensure the hemline is at an office-appropriate length. If you’re set on showing off some personality (and heck yes, you should!), look to unique embellishments, like these geo numbers, to add visual intrigue in a subtle, unobtrusive way.

2. Express Edition Drapey Boyfriend Blazer ($198): When in doubt, bring a blazer. A sleek, well-fitted blazer can transform even the most basic closet essentials into an ensemble worthy of the corporate world in a snap. Clean lines and proper sleeve length are key to achieving a put-together aesthetic. Layer one over a streamlined shift dress, or team it with belted high-waisted trousers, a silk blouse and stylish pointed-toe flats.

3. J.Crew Colorful Crystal Foliage Necklace ($128): Accessories are a great way to showcase that killer sense of style, but you definitely don’t want to go overboard. Stick with smaller gems that will elevate your outfit by adding just a hint of sparkle or a pop of color without totally stealing the show. You want your potential employer to focus on what you have to say — not be distracted by over-the-top bling around your neck. In the same vein, leave the bangles or jangly jewelry at home.

4. Reiss Lily Printed Blouse ($230): Why stick with white button downs when you can rock a printed blouse instead? Delivering all the polish of a standard white collared shirt, but with a whole lot more personality, this tonal floral top is guaranteed to go over big with your boss-to-be. Wear it with tailored ankle trousers, sharp-looking loafers and a smart jacket for a flawless working-girl effect.

5. The Horse Classic Rose Gold & Grey ($165): Dressing to impress becomes practically pointless if you show up to your interview late. This sleek rose gold timepiece won’t just keep you on your toes — it’ll instantly infuse your on-the-job ensemble with an It-girl-approved edge.

6. & Other Stories Tailored Lyocell Trousers ($115): Fuss-free and fierce, a pair of tailored, neutral-colored trousers is always a foolproof option. To reach peak polish, avoid too-tight trousers (which can be incredibly uncomfortable and come off as unprofessional) and ensure the hem comes off the ground about a quarter to a half inch when you’re wearing heels — dragging, pooling hems can look seriously sloppy. Style them alongside a sophisticated printed blouse, block heel pumps and minimalist jewelry for an effortless look that nails it every time.

7. Mango Saffiano-Effect Tote Bag ($80): Coming prepared is a whole lot easier when you have a chic tote in tow. Ditch the bright crossbody for this structured buckle tote that has plenty of room for all your interview essentials: a notebook, pens, your portfolio, copies of your resume and a freshening-up kit that will send those last-minute jitters packin’.

8. Kenzo Zig Zag Embroidered Dress ($646): Plan on rockin’ a frock? Neutral tones like black and navy are the way to go — they’re professional and timeless. For a more modern edge, opt for an eye-catching print (skip the polka dots) or graphic detailing that will set you apart from the rest. If you’re taking this route, choose classic silhouettes that strike the right balance of elegance and contemporary cool. Avoid loud colors or overly out-there prints that might be distracting or feel out of place.

9. Equipment Adalyn Printed Silk-Twill Shirt ($270): Unless you’re applying for a position in a corporate setting, you don’t need to suit up, but you don’t want to look messy either. A jazzed up button-down will certainly do the trick, especially when paired with a sharp pencil skirt and (comfortable) don’t-mess heels. Plus, you can easily mix and match it with the rest of your wardrobe. Boyfriend jeans and lace-up ballet flats, anyone?

10. Zara Medium Heel Pointed Shoes ($30): On the shoe front, a pair of navy, nude or black heels — or any structured steppers for that matter — is a flat-out foolproof option. These no-frills pumps offer just the right amount of lift, keeping you feeling grounded and confident, no matter what questions come your way. If you go for a pair of peep-toes, make sure your toes are looking their best — hit the nail salon before heading through the office door.

11. Ann Taylor Multi Stripe Wide Leg Crop Pants ($98): Sticking with the essentials is certainly safe — and won’t draw any inquisitive looks from HR or your potential future employer — but they won’t give you the opportunity to show off your creative side or personality either. To land a job in the arts, elect unexpected silhouettes and subtle-yet-funky prints that push the envelope without going overboard. Style these striped stunners with a bow neck blouse, block heels and asymmetric drop earrings for an ensemble that is polished and totally you.

12. Zara Embroidered Jacket ($169): And speaking of personality… A blazer isn’t the only way to layer in style. Seemingly glamorous gigs call for threads with a bit of extra oomph. A feminine blouse will give this clean-cut embellished jacket a put-together vibe, especially when teamed with elevated culottes or refined dress trousers. Boost your getup in seconds with muted metallic pumps or a platform heel that toes the line between traditional and cutting edge.

13. Whistles Jade Wrap Over Dress ($270): Sophisticated doesn’t have to mean snoozy. Show off that incredible attention to detail by sporting a classic wrap dress with unique circle fastenings and an asymmetric hem that exudes RN vibes. Pair with new-age Mary Janes and statement stud earrings for a sleek, so-easy look that just might become your interview signature.

14. Topshop “Jinx” Mary Jane Pointy Toe Pump ($85): Who needs a power suit when you have a pair of hot steppers like these on hand? Blow the competition out of the water by strutting into the boardroom with these bad boys in tow, along with a pretty patterned blouse, pencil skirt and a briefcase-inspired satchel.

15. Iris and Ink Claudia Pussy-Bow Silk-Chiffon Blouse ($165): Fake it ’til you make it with a billowy blouse that is equal parts girlboss and fashionable femme. Bust it out with an updated take on the traditional suit, styling it with silk jogger-inspired trousers, a streamlined jacket and statement accessories that are just as sleek as they are show-stopping.

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Ever dream of globetrotting the world while getting paid? That's not a rhetorical question. Now you can turn your wanderlust into real cash with Ramada by Wyndham. The global hotel brand is on the hunt for its next "CEO," AKA Chief Eats Officer, a dream role for anyone who loves food and travel and well, a paycheck. One lucky adventurer will be paid $15,000 to travel to Ramada’s most coveted destinations, curate a list of must-eats, and share their travel highlights on social media. Learn how to enter below!

Decameron Club Caribbean Runaway Bay, Ramada Jamaica

From Thailand to Turkey and Seoul to Santa Barbara, the CEO trip will include up to seven global destinations in a three-week itinerary next spring. With hotels in 75 countries around the world, Ramada by Wyndham is perfect for travelers looking for that bucket-list experience!

Hunan, China, Ramada by Wyndham Chenzhou Dongjiang Lake

For a chance to be the next “CEO,” travel and food enthusiasts can visit Ramada.com/CEO by October 22 and submit a short, 1-3 minute video through TikTok (tag @RamadabyWyndham, #RamadaCEO) or email makemeceo@ramada.com that shows your passion for travel and discovering amazing eats.

Prize Details:

  • $15,000 reward, including a $10,000 travel stipend to cover airfare and travel expenses, plus $5,000 cash
  • Paid hotel accommodations for up to 21 nights at Ramada properties around the world
  • A Wyndham Rewards® Diamond membership for one year

Ramada Resort by Wyndham, Bodrum, Türkiye

How to Apply

To apply, post a public video on TikTok explaining why you are the best candidate for the job, tagging @RamadabyWyndham, using the hashtag #RamadaCEO, and following @RamadabyWyndham on TikTok.

Your TikTok account must be publicly viewable for the duration of the contest (through November 2024). Alternatively, you can email your video submission to makemeceo@ramada.com.

All video submissions must be between one and three minutes in length and should include your country of residence.

If applying via email, be sure to provide the handles for your active and public personal social media accounts.

All entries must be submitted and received by 11:59 p.m. ET on October 22, 2024.

Additional Qualifications Include:

  • Applicants must be a legal resident of the 50 United States or Canada (excluding Quebec).
  • Availability to travel for up to three weeks between April 1, 2025, and June 30, 2025.
  • Active and proficient on various social media platforms (TikTok and Instagram preferred).
  • At least 21 years old with a valid passport through December 2025.
  • Self-confessed travel lover and foodie.
  • Comfortable working remotely and on deadline.

Ramada by Wyndham will select the winning CEO on or around the week of November 14, 2024. No purchase is necessary to enter. For more details, including official rules, visit www.ramada.com/ceo. Good luck!

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Christmas has come early for two reasons: Carpool Karaoke is back — and so is Lady Gaga! Wondering what they have in common? Everything!

The 2010's sensation gave us amazing celebrity appearances with James Corden as driver extraordinaire, and stars like Harry Styles, Katy Perry, and Selena Gomez. Lady Gaga joined the carpool in 2016 — with over 88 million views on Youtube — singing songs like "Million Reasons" and "Bad Romance" to her heart's content.

Finally, the pop star — and the show itself, TBH — made a return this week! And more than that? Lady Gaga even debuted her new Christmas song. I've already played it multiple times, so I know it's about to top my most-played Christmas songs. Excited? Here's everything you need to know about the surprise song drop, the return of Carpool Karaoke, and more!

See how Carpool Karaoke gave us the biggest surprise of 2024 — a new Lady Gaga Christmas song!

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

In an unexpected trailer for A Carpool Karaoke Christmas, Zane Lowe can be seen accepting a phone call from the one and only James Corden who has a huge favor to ask. The first passenger Lowe picks up is the "Bad Romance" songstress herself — followed by Chappelle Roan and Dua Lipa's own individual appearances.

The car's decked out in green wreaths and festive red bows which adds to the Christmas spirit as everyone sings along to famous holiday songs. Lady Gaga can also be heard singing "Christmas Tree" which has fans in the trailer's comment section besides themselves with glee!

According to Deadline, the special premiered on Apple TV+ December 15, so it's not too late to watch it if you're just as excited as we are. But that's not all!

The outlet also reported Lady Gaga and Lowe released a new version of "Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town" on all streaming music platforms! This means you get to hear the pop star give the nostalgic song a punk rock vibe that's now stuck in our heads.

If Lady Gaga tells us not to pout or cry, we're going to listen! (And sing along while we're at it 😉)

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In our Take 5 series, sponsored by Verizon, we ask women in business about unexpected challenges, their inspirations, recent wins, and how the free Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program has helped propel their business forward. Here, we meet Rita Suzanne, a marketing strategist for health and wellness businesses who learned to network, connect with other entrepreneurs, and build her business online and IRL.

What's an unexpected business challenge that you've had to face and how did you overcome it?

The hardest thing for me was my sister passed away and I ended up taking custody of my nieces. I ended up being a single mom of four kids. This is the thing that transitioned my whole entire life. I stopped doing web design and started my podcast Mom Owned and Operated. I wanted to reconnect with other moms and figure out how they were able to run their businesses and raise a family and take care of themselves because I wasn't able to do all three at the same time. Through that journey, I realized that I really needed to connect with other people and how important it was for my business. It helped me to create that community that I was yearning for that I didn't realize that I needed.

What's a recent small win for your business?

For me, the win was just pivoting back to something that I actually wanted to do. Also, I’ve started to say no to things that I no longer want to do.

Who is a woman in business that you look up to and why?

I have always admired and looked up to Amy Porterfield [author of Two Weeks Notice]. I listened to her all the time when I was starting out. I think that she's amazing and I love her stuff. She just seems like a very genuine person.

Is there a resource that has made an impact on you as an entrepreneur?

I listen to a lot of audio books. One of my favorites that has been huge for me is You Are A Badass by Jen Sincero. I was told when I first started my business, by a friend who was a business coach, that I have a mindset problem. Ten years ago, I had no idea even what “mindset” was. Sincero’s book helped me to see what she meant by “mindset” and helped me adjust that mindset and fix some of the things that I didn't realize were broken.

How has the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program helped propel your business forward?

There are a lot of things that I have loved about it. There are local networking and training opportunities, and that has been great, and the online training is very valuable. It's a great resource. I find that marketing needs a three-tiered approach, meaning you need to network it locally, socially, and then also have a very comprehensive online approach to your marketing. One of the Verizon Small Business trainings that I took was all about taking advantage of your local resources. I found that to be extremely valuable because often people think they need to just focus on social media. I don't think that people focus enough on their local community.

Learn more about the free Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program and Rita Suzanne.

Illustration by Daniela Jordan-Villaveces

I knew beauty trends were officially headed in a different direction when latte makeup dominated social media last year. Everything about it gave the appearance of soft features, making this millennial appreciate the ‘no makeup’ look more and more. And while I'm working on staying up-to-date on all the latest makeup trends, it also reminded me there are outdated trends that unintentionally age people...and definitelyneedto go.

Wanna look younger and more on-trend, too? From super metallic eyeshadow to contour that dominates your face, here are the 8 outdate makeup trends to leave in the early ‘90s to mid-2000s.

The 8 outdated makeup trends you need to stop ASAP!

1. Full Coverage Foundation

KoolShooters

There was a time where wearing full-coverage foundation was all the rage. From drugstore to high-end brands, it seems like they were consistently shoved in consumers’ faces to help us achieve a ‘full beat’ without sitting in a makeup artist’s chair. Also, those of us with dark spots or hyperpigmentation may have relied on them when we were in the thick of our skincare woes.

But these days, wearing too much foundation isn’t as popular as natural and skincare makeup are prioritized. If anything, more people are interested in wearing light-to-medium coverage foundation, skin tints, or tinted moisturizers.

2. Too Much Concealer

George Milton

It wasn’t until I watched this video by makeup artist Katie Jane Hughes that I realized some of us have been too heavy-handed with our concealers. There’s no reason we should be slapping products under the thinnest parts of our face, but we didn’t know any better!

Now that you know you can still get the desired effect with a minimal amount of concealer, don’t revert back to painting your under eyes!

3. 'Baking' Your Setting Powder

Chidi Young

Before you throw away your setting powders, step away from your makeup drawer and have a sit-down chat with me. There isn’t anything wrong with applying them to your face to help ‘set’ your foundation and concealer. However, spending over 10 minutes ‘baking’ your powder (AKA letting it sit untouched) doesn’t work for everyone.

It can lead to creased makeup which can derail your look, plus it’s a pain to correct when you’re halfway through your routine!

4. Overlining Lips

Kaboompics.com

I love a good lip liner, especially if it mirrors my favorite ‘90s makeup look. But, there’s such a thing as overdoing it. The key to lining your lips is following the natural flow of them. Going out of your way to draw above and under your lips’ lines comes off as comical and exaggerated. If anything, use a lip plumping gloss to help your lips look fuller.

5. Overtweezing Your Eyebrows

Getty Images

I don’t even have the words for this outdated makeup look besides wanting to say “no” 20 times in a row. But, I’ll bite and say why this shouldn’t be on your 2025 beauty moodboard.

Some people naturally have thinner eyebrows which is A-okay! However, purposely tweezing your eyebrows to smithereens is cringey. If you truly want to wear this look, here’s what you can do instead of tweezing:

  • Create a faux bleached look by applying a skin tone colored setting powder all over your brows.
  • Once they’ve ‘disappeared,’ take an eyebrow pencil or eyeliner to draw a thin line over them.

I’m…wondering what the ramifications of telling you how to do this will be, but only use go for this look if it’s a part of a themed party…like Halloween.

6. Exaggerated Highlighter On Cheeks

Milad Farhani

The shimmery look is in since it’s winter, but please don’t make it look like you dipped your cheeks into a vat of glitter. You can lightly dust highlighter onto your cheeks for a more natural glow that flows with the rest of your look. Otherwise you’ll look like a walking disco ball which could be the opposite of what you were going for.

7. Heavy Contour Or Bronzer

Laura Garcia

I know the ‘sculpted’ look is popular, but too much contour or bronzer can overpower the rest of your makeup and face. While it’s not impossible to fix if you do it by mistake, using the wrong shade of contour or bronzer may still peep through no matter how much you try to buff it out.

When in doubt, be gentle with your contour or bronzer application!

8. Incredibly Matte Makeup

Nataliia Yatsiuk

Matte makeup that didn’t budge was the ‘It Girl’ look for oily and combination skin girls! We thought it was the answer to our skin’s incessant need to hydrate our faces instead of actually using skincare products that focused on combatting that issue (psst…Vitamin C serums help!).

But now’s the time to break up with this look for good for one reason: dewy skin looks healthier.

While we have you here, learn about the outdated shoe trends you shouldn't be wearing in 2025 either.

As much as I love the wholesome parts of the holidays (like decorating Christmas cookies and opening gifts in the morning), one of my absolute favorite parts about the end of the year is ringing in a new one. 2025 is on its way, baby, and if you’re anything like me, you’re already scheming up a New Year's party plan. The key to a good time is definitely having a great outfit – and these 12 Abercrombie & Fitch party dresses are actually perfect for the occasion. I’m talkin’ sequins, mesh, and even leopard print.

Get ready to stand out this season in these drop-dead gorgeous Abercrombie & Fitch party dresses!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Strapless Drop-Waist Maxi Dress

Drop waists will always get me. Plus, they're so flattering! This flowy maxi can be conveniently worn with or without straps to suit your personal style.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Long-Sleeve Sheer Hem Mini Dress

The scooped neckline on this stunning mini dress is mirrored along the back, which dips a bit lower for a sultry vibe. Pair with some basic heels, and your 'fit is complete.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Collared Zip-Up Midi Dress

The ruching along the front of this zip-up dress is super flattering, drawing eyes to your waistline. The high leg slit feels flirtatious as ever, which could be just the vibe you're needing for your New Year's plans.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Satin Slip Maxi Dress

Slip dresses are simply timeless and so easy to style. Lean more '90s with this foxy leopard print. I'd def wear it with some black boots and a black faux fur jacket for the drama (and more importantly, the warmth).

Abercrombie & Fitch

Long-Sleeve Mesh Maxi Dress

This meshy maxi comes with a mini-length slip along the inside so you won't have to constantly worry about coverage. The material still shows your skin in all the right places!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Strapless Pleated Skort Dress

This preppy piece can easily be played up for a party – if anything, I think the tailored look gives the impression that you're super polished. Slip into this strapless skort dress (yep, there's built-ini shorts!), step into some cute kitten heels, throw on a shaggy coat, and you're set!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Long-Sleeve Off-The-Shoulder Satin Mini Dress

I could see this one working just as well for a Christmas dinner as it would for a rather lit New Year's get-together. The off-the-shoulder look is simply so sweet!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Straight Neck Sequin Midi Dress

Sequins. Need I say more?! You'll immediately stand out among the crazy New Year's crowds in this fancy, disco ball-esque frock.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Off-The-Shoulder Rhinestone Maxi Dress

If full-on sequins aren't quite your thing, you can still put on a bit of shimmer with this dress that's dotted in tiny rhinestones. It comes in this amazing nude color or black to best suit your style!

Abercrombie & Fitch

High-Neck Satin Sculpt Midi Dress

While the front of this sleek midi is more modest, the back features an open design that lets you show some more skin. It's definitely on the elegant side, so I'd advise wearing it to a fancy cocktail hour or more low-key NYE party this year.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Emerson Off-The-Shoulder Skort Dress

Polka dots always feel super energetic to me, so if you want to be the one to get the party started, this is the dress for you! Plus, it'll make for some super cute Instagram pics. The design includes some built-in shorts, so coverage won't be an issue throughout the night.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Satin Embellished Strapless Mini Dress

Oh, this one is perfect. The tiny rhinestone embellishments will certainly have heads tuning your way.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.