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Attire

Traditional interview attire in many industries is a business professional, two-piece suit in a neutral color (gray, navy, or black). Research specific companies and industries beforehand, as some may be more relaxed in how they define professional dress. If you’re not sure, check with an NCA team member.  Attire for all non-interview employer events coordinated by NCA—including career fairs, information sessions, networking events, coffee chats, and workshops—is business casual. 

If access to professional or business casual attire is limiting your participation in career-related programs and events, we encourage you to explore 'Cats Closet, the Career Development Fund, or talk with an NCA team member about your specific needs.

Business Professional

Dresses and Skirts

At a minimum these should cover your thighs when you are seated and reach male and female students walking up to Norris in professional dress your knees when you are standing.

 

Shirts  

When wearing a suit, wear a blouse, shirt, or knit shell under your jacket. Choose a neutral option like white, light blue, or conservative stripes. Choose a clean neckline that is both comfortable and appropriate.

Belts  

Select a belt that matches or complements your shoes and has a simple buckle.

Ties

Wear patterns that are uniform and subtle, whether stripes or small dots. Deep reds, maroons, blues, dressing-men.jpggrays, and blacks blend well with dark suits.

Socks  

Wear socks that complement the color of your suit and are long enough for you to cross your legs without showing skin.

Hosiery

It is recommended to wear hosiery with a dress or skirt. Select a neutral shade or one that coordinates with your clothes.

Shoes   

Lace-up, wing-tip shoes and closed-toe pumps are the most conservative choices and are universally acceptable. Choose shoes in leather, fabric, or microfiber that allow you to walk comfortably. Make sure your shoes are clean and polished.

Jewelry/Accessories

Keep jewelry simple and minimal.

Hair

Make sure your hair is clean and well groomed.

Business Casual

Business casual is more relaxed but still requires good judgment—the key is to maintain a professional presence. Common choices include: female student dressed professionally

 

 Tips to Dress for Success

DO DON'T
  • Focus on finding clothing that fits you and your body and feels comfortable. Clothing and style are personal.
  • Choose neutral colors, as they are always professional.
  • Check out the organization’s website and staff LinkedIn pages to see how current employees dress at work.
  • Err on the side of business professional if the dress code is unclear.
  • Ensure clothes fit properly and are not wrinkled.
  • Wear minimal or no perfume or cologne.
  • Ensure makeup and nail polish are not distracting.
  • Cover visible tattoos if you know the industry is conservative.
  • Wear jeans unless you know they are acceptable at that workplace.
  • Wear anything revealing, such as low-cut shirts, short dresses, sundresses, tank tops, or shorts.
  • Wear athletic wear or gym shoes.
  • Wear open-toe shoes.
  • Wear poorly fitting clothes (too tight or too loose).