Would you ever pick your nose during an interview?Of course you wouldn’t. But according to a recent study, dressing poorly for a job interview is just as offensive as digging for gold in front of your interviewer.

In fact, the majority of interviewers decide within the first 30 seconds whether or not they would offer you the job based on how you’re dressed. If you don’t look the part, you’re given the mental axe before your interview has even started.

When it comes to your career, the benefits of dressing well go far beyond winning over an interviewer. Statistics show that employees who don professional threads in the workplace are 41% more likely to be promoted. Wearing formal clothing has even been proven to boost confidence. It also makes your colleagues perceive you as more intelligent.

HERE ARE THE FASHION STAPLES TO ACE YOUR

JOB INTERVIEW

BLAZERSBlazers are the fashion staple to every corporate outfit. You can own a few in solid colors such as black, navy and khaki, and pair them with colorful printed shirts.Studies show that black and navy blue are the preferred colors of hiring managers when it comes to interview attire. In fact, wearing black can even make your peers view you as a leader.

Comfortable shoesIf you’re going in for an interview, the last thing you want to wear are high heels that make you feel uncomfortable, or worse, that you might trip in. And if you can barely last through an interview in those shoes, forget trying to wear them through your entire workday.Body language is responsible for 55% of a person’s impression of you. You want to put yourself forward as someone who’s comfortable in their own skin – and their own shoes.A pair of sturdy, comfortable flats with some embellishment or flair and black or nude for women would be fine.

A matched suitA matched suit is a must. It makes you look instantly put together and professional. A research says that wearing a suit makes you more adept at taking criticism, and can even make you feel more powerful. Instead of outdated flare pants, find a set that comes with skinny trousers. Buy the set in a neutral color. The only exception to this is if you work in an industry that encourages stylistic creativity (fashion, design). This is also one of those times that you might want to spring for a tailor – especially if you find that the sleeves or pants are a bit long, but that the suit fits perfectly everywhere else.

A professional bag

Your Jansport backpack circa 2006 is not going to cut it in the professional world. Even if you’re carrying along your gym clothes and a packed lunch, there’s no reason to show up to your office (or worse, an interview) looking like a bag lady. Not to mention, backpacks take a physical toll on your posture. Poor posture can leave you feeling less confident, and drains positivity, so it’s important to make sure your workbag doesn’t weigh you down! Kirsty recommends leather or faux leather tote bags in brown, grey or black.

Printed blousesBlouses with patterns help to breathe some life into your wardrobe without making you appear too dressed down. Plus, they pair well with solid blazers and trousers. Shirts with green, yellow, orange and purple coloring can actually make you appear more creative to your co-workers. This is where you can spice things up. Add colors and patterns to break up the monotony of pencil skirts and slacks.Want to increase your chances at a promotion, land your dream job, make more money, feel more confident and appear more intelligent?Your wardrobe counts. Own it.