Dress for success

Make a strong first impression

First impressions matter in the professional world, and how you dress for interviews, career fairs and other recruiting events can influence how employers perceive your preparedness and potential. Dressing appropriately shows respect for the opportunity and helps you project confidence, professionalism and readiness for the role you want.

Background Section

Workplace discrimination protections

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits employers from making hiring decisions based on race, color, religion, sex or national origin. If you believe you have been discriminated against, you can file a charge of discrimination, which requests the EEOC take remedial action.

Employment screening

While employers cannot individually discriminate against specific candidates on title VII basis, they may include dress codes as part of safety policies or job-specific requirements. Additionally, general screening questions and individual perceptions may prevent candidates from moving through the recruiting process without prompting an actionable EEOC claim.

Dress with confidence

Claudia’s Career Closet helps students show up confidently by providing free professional clothing for interviews, career fairs and other recruiting events. Students can choose attire that fits their professional goals, helping them make a strong and polished first impression.

Claudia's Career Closet

Dressing for professional success

Simple, polished choices that help you make a strong first impression

Choose simple, classic styles over trendy or distracting looks
Keep hair, makeup, and nails polished and natural
Wear clean, wrinkle-free clothing that fits well
Limit strong scents and avoid anything that may distract others
Keep accessories minimal and professional
Be mindful of visible tattoos and piercings, when unsure, take a conservative approach
Aim for an overall look that reflects confidence, professionalism, and attention to detail

Business professional

For most interviews, presentations, award ceremonies and career fairs

Employers frequently make decisions based on first impressions. By dressing in business professional attire during the recruiting process, including career fairs, graduate and professional program interviews, and job interviews, you can show respect and maturity.

Business casual

For networking nights, connection sessions and other events or meetings where future employers may be present

Most workplaces have a business casual dress code for everyday attire. Investing in pieces that look professional while reflecting your personal style can help you build a strong wardrobe for internships, conferences and full-time jobs.

Smart or snappy casual

For Casual Fridays, work from home days and workplace holiday parties

Some employers offer specific days, like “casual Fridays”, where employees are invited to wear jeans. Rather than full casual or business attire, these dress codes often include a blend of casual, business casual and business professional attire, balanced appropriately for the environment.