Chic for Cheap: Dressing for a Graduate School Interview

Today's outfit was requested by Patricia, a 29 year old reader who will soon be on her way to interview for the graduate school of her dreams.  Here's a bit more about her needs:

"I am writing in a desperate request for outfit ideas for an upcoming graduate school interview. After applying to 10 Ph.D. programs in clinical psychology, I have unbelievably made it through three rounds of selections at my first choice school and have been invited to a face-to-face interview/visitation day at the department. I am extremely nervous because I know I will be completing several rounds of intense interviews and that every aspect of myself will be carefully scrutinized (by psychologists!).  I am on a limited budget but want to appear poised and pulled together.  I am going less for a business professional (suit ensemble) look than I am one that is approachable but very polished.  Also, it is still really cold at the interview location and I have been advised to plan on doing a lot of walking outside so I think dresses/skirts are probably out and closed toed shoes are a must."

For this look I wanted to select a cheerful and approachable accent color that steers clear of trends and is fresh and confident.  I envision Patricia arriving with her coat buttoned up (just a hint of color hanging from her ears).  Once indoors she can remove the jacket showing her beautifully colored cardigan (unbuttoned).  The accessories (shoes and bag) are stylish but also appropriate and chic.  The entire ensemble costs just over $250 and will add a multitude of options to Patricia's closet that she can use again and again. I wish you the best of luck Patricia!

• Sheer Stripe Blouse at Forever 21
• Lace Trim Cami in pink (shown under blouse) also at Forever 21
• Ruffle Neck Cardigan in watermelon from Old Navy
• Bell-Sleeve Swing Jacket also from Old Navy
• Crocodile Everhardt Bag at Target
• Coral Drop Earrings from American Eagle Outfitters
• Mia "Michelle" T-Strap Pumps at Macy's
• The Perfect Trouser at Gap

Comments

[Melissa Brown]

Oh! I love it, I love it! This is just perfect! I think Patricia would feel so confident in this outfit! wonderful hun..xoMelis

[cyndi]

What a fantastic outfit! Totally polished but yet fun + fresh. Good luck Patricia!

[Melissa]

Wow, this is a really great outfit! I love all of it. I'll take the whole outfit.

[Victoria Bennett Beyer]

Love this! Patricia will be able to wear this outfit for so many occasions - it is cheery but classic and professional.

[Sal]

Love it. The color choice is perfect - an ideal spring transitional shade!

[amanda]

this is such a great outfit - thanks for posting!!!

[Patricia]

Oh this is PERFECT! I love it! Thank you Thank you! This is exactly what I was going for! I know I will feel confident, professional and pretty in this outfit- exactly what I need! I love that it is professional and still very feminine and approachable- just perfect. And how did you know I already own this Old Navy coat in black?! :)

I am in awe of your impeccable style and your ability to translate it to others. Thanks so much Ez! :) Patricia

[Diana H.]

Wow - I love this outfit! You really nailed it. :)

[MrsH]

Lovely out fit! Now if only you would post about hair. Specifically, long hair and creative ways wear it.

[Casey C.]

Lovely outfit as usual! :) I'm loving those earrings--can't believe how much of a bargain they are too!

[kc]

patricia - good luck! i've been in grad school for psych for a few years (ahem) and have seen lots of folks at visiting weekends. this outfit will be great! clinical prospectives tend to dress more formally than those visiting other areas of psych, but the most important thing is to be comfortable in your own skin, able to engage confidently and clearly with the faculty. nothing is worse than being already nervous, and then fidgeting in strange clothes! very best of luck, and remember, all the uncertainty and craziness will be over soon. :-)

[ariane Phillips]

Nice outfit! I am purchasing the whole thing right now! Thanks!

[Catherine]

Love the blouse!

[vana]

so so cute! Love it all!

[Amanda]

Something I overlook way too often.. this is a great post and definitely has me rethinking my wardrobe options! Don't have a lot, and I've got a lot of events coming up to start my career off! Figure I should get ready, I'll be a senior in college next semester!

[Pravina Studio]

That's my favorite color combination, black and white with a punch of color.

[Jennifer]

this is such a cute outfit! love the pop of pink and ruffly shirt. i want it all.

[Creme de la Mode]

What a fantastic idea, it never occurred to me what I would need to wear for such and interview (as I have dreams of pursuing a PhD someday)!

Thank you!

[April]

I absolutely love this outfit. I'm a therapist and would love to have this outfit to wear to work.

[spread your wings]

i love this outfit and all at such a reasonable price. i'd like to go out and buy it right now.great blog site. glad i found it.