<p>Hi. I have an interview with the University of Pennsylvania. It's in a work building, elevators, conference tables, all that jazz. I was planning on wearing a royal blue sleeveless peplum top (no cleavage, high collar) and some black pants and flats. Is this too casual? I am talkative and friendly-I want to stand out so I don't mind dressing different, but I still want it to be appropriate.</p>
<p>I’d say business casual attire (under which your outfit seems to fit) is always a safe bet. </p>
<p>As an interviewer, I’d personally feel a little burdened if someone came into an interview with a power suit, but, of course, all of this depends on the person. As a general rule of thumb, interviewing with older alumni may afford a higher degree of formality and overdressing is always better than underdressing.</p>
<p>I suggest wearing a Benjamin Franklin costume. You did say you wanted to stand out, after all… and I think that’ll do the trick. Your interviewer would certainly remember you.</p>
<p>In all seriousness, what you’ve described should be fine.</p>
<p>Something not too formal, but not too casual. Maybe a polo and a sweater and some khakis. You don’t want to look over-businessfied but you also want to keep an aura of professionalism as well.</p>
<p>I’d say that you can’t go wrong with business casual. I have to admit that I don’t take much notice of what a student is wearing. I conduct interviews in a local coffee shop - so it is a very relaxed atmosphere. Trousers or a skirt and a nice top or sweater is perfectly fine. You certainly don’t need a jacket and a tie! Most of the students I interview wear some version of the khaki/polo ‘uniform’ although when I interview students from some of the private schools they tend to wear school uniforms (which is STILL a version of the khaki/polo look) with either a school blazer or a school varsity jacket.</p>
<p>I take into account the time and day of the interview. Sunday midday? Someone coming from services might be a little more dressed up. Right after school? Well, someone might be a little less dressed up. I’ve only ever had one student show up looking like they just came from a sport practice. I don’t recommend that look.</p>
<p>As an interviewer, I have to say I think spectrum778 and plmdin are pretty dead on. Business casual is almost always a safe bet, although older alums are likely to be more formal. It also depends on the setting. If your interviewer is conducting your interview at her office in a major law firm or other professional setting, a suit may be more appropriate.</p>