DRESS FOR SUCCESS AT A CAREER FAIR

What to Wear for Career Fairs

When thinking about your appearance for career fairs, be conservative. Many companies have adopted a "business casual" dress code and this is appropriate for a career fair. When in doubt, it is better to be too conservative than to be too flashy.

General Guidelines - First Impressions Count

  • Make sure your hair is neatly trimmed and styled.
  • Have your clothes dry-cleaned and/or pressed.
  • Polish your shoes and check the heels.
  • Check for runs or holes in your hosiery or socks.
  • Don't lug around an over-flowing book bag; keep it simple with a classic portfolio.

Men

  • A two-piece suit is preferable, but a coat with dress pants will suffice for career fairs.
  • Don't wear a loud, silly or ugly tie. Ties allow you to show some individuality, but you don't want to go overboard. Leave your Micky Mouse or Saints tie at home.
  • Wear polished shoes with socks high enough so no skin is visible when you sit down and cross your legs.

Women

  • A suit with a knee-length skirt and a tailored blouse or shell is most appropriate.
  • Accessories should be kept simple: shoes, jewelry and makeup should present a professional image. Think low-heeled leather pumps, no more than on ring per hand, and Halle Berry's face at the Oscars instead of Christina Aguiler's face at the MTV Awards.
  • Tank tops are inappropriate for a career fair.