Suits-Should be a shade of gray or blue; usually the darker the shade, the greater amount of authority it conveys to the wearer. Medium to charcoal gray are considered good colors for suits. Black communicates too much authority. Brown is not generally recommended for business and interview attire. The lapel of the suit should be no wider than the necktie.

Sports Jacket-A carefully chosen jacket is appropriate for many interview situations, but imparts less authority than a suit.

Avoid 100 percent polyester materials. Poly/wool mixes are all right as long as the wool is recognizable. In warmer climates, practicality wins out, but the suit should look professional and business like. In the Northern states, every suit should look like it's made from wool, unless it's July and 100 degrees, when something lighter may do.

Shirt-Color should be lighter than the color of your suit. White is always good or a blue shirt with a navy suit is acceptable. Should be long sleeved.

Necktie-Should be made of silk. Patterns should be subtle and repetitive. Stripes should be of a uniform pattern and not a lot of different widths and hues.

Socks-Should be black or very dark navy blue that keeps any part of your ankle, shin or calf from being seen. (In warmer climates lighter tones may be acceptable.)

Shoes-Should be black or cordovan, preferably with laces, at least in the northern states. The rules are a bit more relaxed in the south and on the west coast. Skip the Hush Puppies and brown penny loafers.

APPEARANCE IS THE FIRST IMPRESSION THE INTERVIEWER HAS OF YOU, SO YOU WANT TO LOOK YOUR BEST! IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO BE WELL GROOMED-CLEAN AND FRESH, INCLUDING NAILS AND A CLOSE SHAVE.