Before I go to work...

[Jovan]

I have a group interview later today at 6 PM at The Gap. Banana Republic didn't work out, but I hope this does.

So, once again, I ask... is this okay to wear? I plan on wearing a light blue oxford shirt, grey slim cardigan, jeans, and interesting socks with sneakers. And yes, I'm tucking my shirt into my jeans. I feel that would be the best way to achieve that "updated preppy" look I've seen associates convey.

Suggestions?

 

[SinatraStyle]

My two cents...upgrade to a tie, khakis, and dress shoes. I realize that this is not what you will be wearing on a day to day basis if you get the job, and others at the interview may be wearing "Gap associate work attire", but you want to be a step above. Part of the interview is showing the interiewers that you are serious about the interview and have taken extra time out of your day to prepare for it (hence the attire that you probably wouldn't wear on a "normal" day). I think that this shows respect for their time and your gratitude for being offered an opportunity to interview. You will stand out among other candidates, and interviewers will appreciate your efforts.

It's just my opinion; I tend to be a bit old fashioned (imagine that, here on the Lounge). Best of luck to you!!!

 

[sweetfrancaise]

Well...my two cents? A tie may be overkill for Gap. What you described wearing sounds perfect for the store--most people show up for retail interviews in jeans and t-shirts anyway, so standards are lower than they should be. But what you're planning to wear sounds perfectly chic, out of the ordinary, and will give you a laid-back, proffessional vibe. Good luck!!

 

[Paisley]

I think jeans and a cardigan are too casual for a job interview that isn't trade- or construction related. I'd go with khakis and a sport coat. I don't have enough information to say whether you should wear a tie.

 

[Big Man]

If I were hiring, I'd be initially more impressed with an applicant wearing khakis, dress shirt, a conservative tie, and dress shoes. wearing a sport coat may be pushing it a bit too much, but that would depend on your age and the specific job.

Just my two cents worth ...

 

[lyburnum]

I actually work for The Gap as a visual merchandiser. The advice they gave people coming in for interviews was to wear smart-casual. Generally ties would be total overkill. Admittedly it depends on which position you're applying for, but the best received attire tends to be jeans/clean shoes/shirt - so what you're talking about would easily be suitable. I wore jeans and a white shirt to my interview with them. I don't think khakis would be a problem though.

However, if you're going for a higher position, those rules change I'm sure.

What you want most of all, is for them to be able to imagine you working for them - if you look like a Gap employee they're more likely to hire you. Whenever I do interviews in retail I change my outfit according to what they sell instore, and how their employees look.

 

[Jovan]

For the record these aren't beat up jeans either. They're selvage denim that are still pretty dark (and from the Gap).

Thanks for the advice, I appreciate it especially from one who's worked for them. Everyone else, thanks as well.

Any other suggestions? Collar points buttoned or unbuttoned, etc.?

 

[SinatraStyle]

How did the interview go?

 

[Jovan]

It went pretty well. I think I made a very good impression on them. I ended up wearing black dress shoes instead of sneakers... because my only sneakers are a bit dirty and I couldn't clean them up sufficiently in time.

 

[Emmababy]

Jovan, I think you're pretty sexy

 

[Lincsong]

The heck with The Gap, Emmababy awaits.....

Get your passport and book a flight to London.

FAST!!!!!!!

 

[lyburnum]

Well The Gap's a world wide brand anyway - be pretty easy to transfer over seas lol

 

[Emmababy]

uhoh!

 

[Lincsong]

bada bing!!!!

 

[Emmababy]

UHOH!

 

[Diamondback]

bada boom!

Or did I get it backward relative to Lincsong's line?

Shoulda picked up that Sopranos DVD...lol

 

[Lincsong]

Ring a ding ding ding.