Biz Buzz: Dos and Don'ts of professional dressing

Biz Buzz keeps its fabulously accessorized ear to the ground to provide breaking fashion news coverage.

I’m looking through my closet for an interview I have with a PR firm tomorrow, and I have no idea what to wear. I don't want to be too formal, and I don't want to worry about being too trendy. 

Thankfully, the Career Services Network at SU, Macy’s, Clinique and other vendors are hosting Dress For Success, an event aimed at teaching us to dress affordably for interviews, career fairs and professional settings.

Activities will include games, prizes, music and a show exhibiting fashions that are considered dos and don’ts in the work world. Jennifer Pluta, internship coordinator for the Career Services Network, suggests women avoid exposing cleavage and wearing high-waisted skirts. When it comes to makeup and pantyhose, she says stick to neutrals. Guys with facial hair should trim and under no circumstance should a guy wear white socks.

The event will take place tomorrow at 7:30pm in the Gifford Auditorium at SU.  Tickets can be purchased in the Schine Box Office for  $3 and $5.  

- by Kareema Pinckney

Biz Buzz: Dress For Success hits campus

Biz Buzz keeps its fabulously accessorized ear to the ground to provide breaking fashion news coverage.

We’ve all noticed that girl at a student career conference before. She’s the one sporting those white and black shoe-boots, skin-tight leathery pants, a tank, a leather jacket and even purple eye shadow with a hint of sparkle.

Yes, that girl. She is absolutely fearless.

However, to her misfortune, she is not fierce. Many students go out of their way to make themselves memorable during these types of events, yet many fail when they try too hard.  

It's a good thing the Career Services Network at SU, Macy’s, Clinique and other vendors are hosting Dress For Success, an event to teach students how to dress affordably for interviews, career fairs and professional settings.

"Students get mixed messages about what is trendy versus what is interview-appropriate. We wanted to assist them with navigating their professional style," says Jennifer Pluta, internship coordinator for the Career Services Network. 

"When you wear something, you are marketing yourself. Even if you have a great stellar resume, it will not matter if you are inappropriately dressed. You have to know what quality looks like and not depend on the price tag."

Pluta advises females to stay away from high-waist skirts and exposing any cleavage. Although trendy, they are often times too much for an interview.  Makeup should be neutral and pantyhose should be worn unless there is a run. 

For guys, she advises against white socks and unkempt facial hair. Sleek and low-cuts are always a plus.

The event takes place Dec. 8 at 7pm in the Grant Auditorium in the College of Law. Festivities will include games, prizes, music and a show exhibiting fashions that are considered dos and don’ts in the work world. Tickets are available for $3 and $5 at Schine Box Office.

- by Kareema Pinckney