Is there such a thing as being too well dressed for interviews? (Junior positions)

When you're applying for starting/junior positions?

I've been handed down some pretty nice clothes from family members that are doing well. Luckily most fits me extremely well (after some minor tailoring), and basically looks unworn. Suits, shirts and ties from makers like Cesare Attolini, Kiton, Isaia, Borrelli, Loro Piana, Salvatore Ferragamo, Hermes. Various high-end English shoes.

Nothing flashy by any means, but the fabric and drape looks magnitudes better than what other newly graduates would wear.

Could it be seen negatively in any way to wear clothes like that, for low-position interviews? (No expensive timepieces, or cuff-links though!)

12 Comments
 

There is such a thing as being overdressed for a job, but it normally applies to Persian cab drivers, not financiers.

I kid. Anyway, yeah, not too much of an issue so long as you don't over-brand. People don't hire you for your ability or inability to purchase nice clothes. It's fine to look stylish, just make sure you have the substance to match. Don't be one of those all-sizzle-no-steak B players.

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Best Response

Alright, it seems that there is an epidemic regarding what to wear, what not to wear and just general clothing issues around here even more so than usual. Here's my advice to you and everyone else with this question. Appearance matters. Clothing should fit properly, be at least of decent quality so that it isn't falling apart and clean. It should also be professional and generally subdued (although this depends really heavily on the culture of the firm). I think the biggest thing to watch out for is what MBA mentioned above and if you are in a role and firm where no one wears a suit; don't wear a suit everyday. Please for the love of god don't go out and suddenly get pants that are too long because a superior doesn't care. I think people spend far too much time here measuring themselves by what other people are wearing or doing; take pride in your appearance and simply be smart about what you wear.

 

I think you want to remain in the same tier (business casual - slacks and a button-down, business formal - suit and tie, etc.) as your boss and the rest of the office. The spectrum can be broad, some people hear business casual, go buy a pair of khakis and any old button down, throw them on, and that's it. If you are wearing the same types of clothing, but nice, fitting versions, then you're in a good spot. You'll look good, people will see that you are aware of your appearance, but you aren't being a dick about it either.

TL;DR - No matter the acceptable attire, go by the office standard, but a nice, fitting version of it.

 

What is a "British business suit" and how does it differ from an "American business suit"

Business formal is business formal. Just suit + tie for business formal in an office setting.

Don't show up looking like Sweeney Todd.

 

It´s three Savlie Row suits that I wore when I worked in Hong Kong. In my new bank in NYC it is business casual. Is it OK to show up in a suit and no tie. And then take off the jacket and walk around the my suit pants and dress shirt?

Do have to buy an american sack suit or is it OK so wear a lite more tailored British suit?

 

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