It is generally acknowledged that there is a particular range of colours that suits an individual best. These colours will be different for everybody but can help to give each of us a distinct presence. The right clothes do not draw attention to themselves; rather, they show off the person inside them, and in the right colours you will receive compliments on how well you are looking rather than on your clothes. Looking your best does not involve spending a lot of money on clothes, wearing the latest fashions or trying to look like someone else. A classic single-breasted jacket that you look after will not date. If you have no money, see if you can borrow clothes from a friend or relative but do not squeeze yourself into something too small. Wearing clothes that are too tight merely makes you look bigger; if in doubt use a size larger than normal to make you look smaller. Add height with accessories that accentuate the upper half of your body, such as a brooch or noticeable earrings.
As a rule, plain neutral colours are safest when you want to look smart. Navy blue or medium to dark grey for suits or jackets and a contrasting soft (not bright) white or ivory shirt or blouse work well for a confident, competent appearance. Black looks best on those with strong natural colouring or dark hair.
Don’t confuse looking attractive or pretty with looking business-like. If you have long flowing hair, consider tying it back neatly for the interview to look more disciplined and practical. Women should avoid wearing low-cut, tight-fitting or otherwise revealing clothes. Keep your clothes that get attention for your social life and let your abilities and ideas do the talking in the interview.
Image consultants give professional advice on the colour and style of clothes to suit your natural colouring and body shape. The advice given is based on the idea of tailoring the colours you wear to those in the natural colouring of your hair, eyes and skin. The same applies to the style of your clothes. You have a certain body shape which can be echoed in your clothes to show you to your best advantage. This applies to a greater extent to women because of the more extensive range of styles and colours available to them, but it is also relevant to men – in particular to the shape and style of their clothes.