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Anna Wintour, as editor-in-chief of American Vogue, has become one of the most influential people in the fashion industry. Many know her from the film ’The Devil Wears Prada’, based on the book of the same name about an employee who spills the beans on bossy Wintour.
Ever since 1988, when she joined Vogue, the editor-in-chief, has become notorious for being a demanding and tough employer. But not without results. With her outstanding knowledge of fashion, she has turned the magazine into a worldwide phenomenon.
Ask Anna!
In addition to running the magazine, Wintour has also recently started sharing her opinions and tips via the Vogue Youtube channel. The questions and themes come from random people who the team approach on the street.
One lady asked Anna what is best to wear when applying for a job at Vogue. In the video below from the 1:55 mark, you can see what the answer was. Prefer to read the answer then scroll down a bit further.
Anna Wintour’s advise on dressing for a job interview
Wintour says she finds it very interesting to see what clothes people wear when they arrive in for a job interview with her.“Sometimes you feel they are wearing clothes that they just bought that morning, or maybe the day before, and not something that represents their personality. I think what everyone should remember, no matter where you are interviewing, we’re not hiring your wardrobe. Your wardrobe is not going to be doing the job for you — you are.” It is important that you dress for yourself. Nobody benefits when you are not being your true self in your clothes”, says Wintour.
Perspective
It is ironic that this woman who is famous for her hardcore opinions is so down to earth when it comes to the subject of dressing for job interviews. I have been in a similar situation. When I was studying fashion, people assumed I would be surrounded by super fashionable students all day. But that was not the case at all. Just because you work in fashion, or are a student of fashion, does not mean you look a certain way. Of course, there were students who dressed strikingly or very fashionably, but the majority wore jeans, a t-shirt, and sneakers.
I fully agree with Anna that it is not smart to wear something that you just bought, which does not necessarily suit you. Personally, I would advise you to wear an item which you’ve had for a while and makes you feel great every time you wear it. Or an item which you’ve received many compliments on, this really gives you a boost. And confidence is much more important.
That is not to say that you should not take the company culture into account. Because if you arrive wearing something inappropriate, you will feel insecure and out of place.
Have you ever felt uncomfortable in an interview because you were wearing new clothes?
Greetings,
Aileen