Your appearance is one of the most important factors in the interview. Recruiters form a first impression within the first 30 seconds and your appearance is important in forming a positive first impression.

There's been a lot of emphasis on business dress and image in the past. While the idea of dressing appropriately for an interview is universally accepted, exactly what that means can vary widely from company to company, region to region and industry to industry. Styles are always changing, and what's considered appropriate for a 25-year-old copywriter may not be considerate appropriate for a 50-year- old accountant. It's also true that even if you are the world's greatest financial analyst or programmer, interviewer may have trouble believing it if your appearance is unprofessional.

Why all the fuss about appearance? Isn't the most criterion your ability to do the job? Yes, say interviewers, but if your appearance is unkempt or inappropriate, it may speak so loudly that the interviewer ’ s ability to listen to your abilities and credentials suffers. "Your goal should be to stand out, not stick out," says one interviewer.

What are some of the pet peeves of interviewers?

• Ponytails, particularly on men
• Sagging ankle socks
• Scuffed, down-at-the-heel shoes
• Polyester ties and shirts on candidates for professional positions
• Heaps of jewelry that bangs, clangs, and glitters
• Women who dress provocatively; it's distracting for interviewers of both sexes
• Untrimmed beards and moustaches
• Too much perfume or cologne or makeup

The company culture is particularly important in determining what to wear. In some companies, you may be instantly branded a maverick if you show up in anything other than a navy suit, white shirt and striped tie. For instance, the finance department of a newspaper is bound to be more buttoned-up than editorial department.

The location of the company might also have an impact on employees' dress. If you're a Texan interviewing with a firm in New York, you probably want to leave your cowboy boots at home. And if you're a New Yorker interviewing in Miami in the summer, they just might think you're not so cool if the one you're wearing has long sleeves.

Your experience and the level of the job you are applying for will also affect your ideal mode of dress. For an entry-level candidate, the objective is to come across as capable and mature.

Professional Attire for Women

• A dark conservative business suit with a shirt or blouse that goes well with the suit. The fabric should complement the suit. Cotton, silk or rayon are generally acceptable for executive or professional positions.
• While pants suits have become increasingly more acceptable, the safest interviewattire is a skirt suit. The ideal length of a skirt is no more than two inches above or below the knee.
  
• Your blouse should be a solid or subtle print with a conservative neckline.
  
• Keep jewelry to a minimum. No large earrings, no dangling bracelets and minimum rings.
  
• Make-up should be lightly applied. Stay away from trendy colors and glitter.
  
• Low heels are a must. Avoid thick, clunky shoes. Make sure you can walk in them comfortably.
  
• Be sure to conceal tattoos.
  
• Fingernails should be short, and if you choose to wear nail polish choose neutral colors.

Professional Attire for Men

• A two piece suit will suffice in most instances. A classic cut suit in navy, gray, or black is acceptable.
  
• Wear natural fabrics, like wool and cotton.
  
• Choose a dress shirt in a subtle color. Be sure it is well pressed. Your tie should not be a distracting color or pattern.
  
• Wear an undershirt! Most dress shirts look better over a cotton undershirt.
  
• Your socks should be in extremely good condition. People notice! Wear dark color socks and be sure they keep your skin covered.
  
• It is advisable to remove any earrings for your interview. Be sure to conceal tattoos!