Tuesday
May042010
Chic for Cheap: PhD Entrance Interview
Hello lovelies! It's Chic for Cheap time. This week, reader Julia wrote in with a request for an outfit she can wear for an important PhD program interview. Here are her specific needs:
"In a few weeks, I have an interview for a place on my dream PhD programme, and will also be meeting my potential supervisor for the first time. I've been told that formal wear is not necessary, but I'd really like to make a good impression in a 'respectable, but pretty' way! I'm thinking that a skirt would be the most appropriate way to go, but as a jeans/pyjama pant-dweller, I'm a little stuck on a nice but budget friendly outfit! Any suggestions would be very much appreciated!"
Congrats Julia...how exciting! For this challenge I wanted to go for a look that is both classic and polished..."investing" in individual pieces that are worth their weight in gold for their timeless appeal. Of course the great thing about classics is that you can have fun adding unique accessories that feel appropriate for the occasion. I wanted to keep it simple this time around (you don't want to distract the interviewer), but if you feel a touch more whimsy or color is needed, go for it. Whatever you end up putting on for your big day, don't forget to "wear" your confidence...because that is the most chic look of all! Best of luck to you Julia. I hope you'll write and let us know how it goes. xo Ez
- Wide Stripe Tuxedo Shirt - Banana Republic
- Pencil Skirt with Feminine Detail - Loft
- Front Pocket Computer Tote - Target
- Inverted Teardrop Earrings - Charlotte Russe
- Klarah Heels - Anne Klein
Psst...Want more Chic for Cheap looks? See past outfits right here.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010 
Reader Comments (8)
I love when you do these posts. Your sense of style is amazing! This one will come in handy for me down the road when I start looking for a professional job. :)
I love this! I'm always looking for non-boring 'legally' friendly looks. Its formal most days so I usually go for unconventional white blouses with unexpected details. of course for Julia a sleek pencil skirt can never go wrong!
This is perfect EZ. Super classy, but not stuffy. I adore it. You are so good at this.
i love those earrings. so cheap, i love it!
xo Alison
Oh I luv this post! What a fab idea. Hope you are having a lovely week :)
Great outfit! This would work awesome for an interview or as regular office attire...love it.
Love it! Very classy andI like how affordable they are :) That pencil skirt has to be my favorite! Best of luck, Julia!
~ Kristen
As a current PhDer I really have to say that one can't go wrong with Banana Republic and LOFT. Jazz up any outfit with cool accessories and you're good to go. And yes, please don't leave the house without your confidence!
-Jordana