What to Wear Where ~ A job interview as a vintage wearer

I've heard it time and time again... "What should I wear to an interview for an office job if I wear vintage/vintage style?" At first, it can seem pretty tough. Would a potential employer like you rocking up in a petticoat or victory rolls in your hair? Would they take you seriously? Would they see you as frivolous, or high maintenance?

Don't sweat it too much though. Vintage style is at least modest to begin with, so that's always a good start with a potential employer. Then have a think about the more "serious" pieces in your collection. A great 40s or 50s suit with pumps always looks a treat, just add a neat chignon or front roll and bun.

If you don't own a vintage suit, start thinking outside the box. I will freely admit I don't own a vintage suit. It's never been something I've needed so far in my working life as I've been lucky enough to work in creative environments. But I have plenty of great separates in my wardrobe, and it seems only sensible to utilize them. I'm sure you probably have them too. Think pencil skirts with tailored skirts or a full 50s skirt with a button down shirt and a brooch.

I took my inspiration for this ensemble from a vintage starlet (they never stop proving inspirational!). Ava Gardner wore a classic cropped fuzzy sweater and grey pencil skirt and it looked chic with the bracelet.

Borrowing from this look, I pulled out my own fuzzy cropped sweater from Sheike awhile ago, and a gorgeous double pleat Bon Baiser skirt from Von 50 (available now in navy and silver) who specialize in reproduction vintage pieces that definitely work for the office. To add a touch of retro glam I added an Art Deco scottie dog motif gold bracelet, 1950s glass earrings from Jean Jean Vintage and lilac rose doubles from Daisy Jean Floral to dress up my front roll and bun.

My main piece of advice: Dress professionally, but follow your beloved style too. After all, it's a part of you, and you never know - they might totally dig it! Just make sure to stick to elegant, tailored shapes.

The interview check list:

• tailored cuts - skirts made from structured fabrics whether pencil or full. Shirts or sweaters, not t-shirts! 
• a handbag with your essentials, as well as personal business cards and relevant materials to the interview.
• simple accessories - nothing too sparkly or large!
• tidy and well groomed appearance including hair and make up

These What to Wear Where posts are a little taste of what goes on in my head; all of those 'costumes' I devise for what I'll wear in the countryside, to a wedding, to a NYE party, and every other possible place I might set foot. Hopefully they'll also inspire you! If you have a dressing challenge you'd like help with, drop me a line on my contact page. To see my other posts, visit the What to Wear Where tab.