Worn with these shoes, this outfit is perfect for applying for a job in food service. If she were job-hunting at the mall, she would swap out the moccasins for heels.
Nobody expects a 16-year-old to show up wearing a suit to apply for a first job. What they do expect:
- Whether picking up an application or being interviewed, the applicant should be dressed at least as formally as the workers in the establishment.
- Respectful and respectable attire does not include leisure wear. In the exceptional case (farm work maybe?) jeans may be okay, but never flip-flops.
- Come alone. Don’t pick up an application some random time you are at the mall with your friends, and leave your mom in the car if she must drive you.
Adapting the SAHM uniform template concept to a teen applying for a first job:
- basic bottom (khakis, slacks, or skirt)
I love these wide-legged khakis, but a skirt or even black Dickies would also work.
- + shirt in a flattering color (sleeve-length dependant on season, sweater for extreme cold)
Blues, greens, and neutrals are safe colors for job interviews. Never all black for a young person.
- + layer for dressing up.
The cardigan is conservative and practical. Other options include blazers, jean jackets, or a nice collared shirt.
Clearly this is not a comprehensive guide to getting your first job. What advice would you add?
Great post Rebecca!
I would add:
— if possible tailor your clothes/accessories to the job you’re applying for (smart darkwash denim for a store specializing in denim works, cute necklace/earrings for an accesories store)
— carry a decent bag/purse (especially if you are bringing a resume with your volunteer work, qualifications, etc.) or need to prove your social insurance number/driving credentials/first aid certification
— consider wearing a watch (granted, there are other ways to tell time, but a watch says to a potential employer you care about the time and being punctual)
I would always say that unless you are trying to get a job as a shop-girl in an ultra trendy store, going conservative and classy on the makeup and jewelry is probably a wise idea.
Great suggestions, both of you! (I never would have thought of the watch thing, but it makes perfect sense.)
I think she looks great, and just wanted to wish her luck!
I have no advice on the clothes, because right now I am high on warm weather and fresh air. Ahhh, tis bliss!
Good luck daughter of Fashion-Rebecca!!
Okay, I am rethinking this. Was she actually applying for a job, or just posing as if she were so you could make that post? If she is just posing, um, forget my post. If she is indeed going, um, just forget this post exsists. hahah
Glad you’re having a beautiful day, Carrie. It is 42 and rainy here; so thankfully she is not looking for a job today. 😉
Also, clean and neat, not holes or loose threads. Pants should also be taken up to the right length. Hair should be out of your eyes. CVs or letters should be in a neat folder (not just ratty cardboard).
Details are everything and it’s amazing how much rides on first impressions.
Yes, those are really good points, too. Hair out of the eyes and good eye contact!
Thanks for dropping by, Icy!
my sister has a weekend job at an upscale department store in the mall. they are expected to wear nice pants or a knee length skirt, heels or very dressy flats, and two shirts– a sweater, vest or jacket over a button down shirt or other non-sleeveless top. they can never show up in just a knit shirt, for example. i think these would be good rules for someone applying for a job in a retail store.
I agree.
When I worked for JCPenney, when the pictured young lady was a baby, we had to wear dresses or skirts and could never wear sleeveless. I’m glad someone still has a dress code. The people I see working in many of the stores around here embarrass me to look at them!
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