High powered women's interview suit guide

If you have an interview for a high powered conservative job (law, investment banking, consulting, management, etc) you want to look your best. However the interviewer will be less interested in what you are wearing and more interested in you, your words and your CV.
So dress sharp but keep it muted, you don't want to distract the interviewer from your real goal, to let your personality and talent shine through.

Below are some tips for wearing a business suit for such an occasion.

Colour? A lot of tailors will advise that navy or charcoal are the safest bets as black suits can look a little severe. Personally I don't agree with this and I think a black suit works fine. So if you're investing in your first bespoke suit this is actually a good choice as it can be broken down and worn as separates easily. Just make sure the blacks match, wearing mismatched black separates together will make you look like a novice.

If you already have a couple of suits and want to expand stay in the plain conservative colour palette of blues/greys/black. Patterns like pinstripes and checks can be harder to match with accessories, difficult to wear as seperates & will get less wear as they are more memorable.
For those who really want to be bold but bearing in mind the above advice about keeping it muted, a pinstripe suit can be very slimming and make a statement.

What to wear beneath your blazer?
To be practical sleeves are advisable when wearing a suit, even a short sleeve, it means you'll be dry cleaning your suit less. That said a suit can be hot enough, especially in India and many women prefer to wear something feminine underneath.
A silk jersey top in a solid colour is a safe and easy option. Particularly for women who have issues with gaping blouses with buttons, remember you will probably be sitting for a long time. Prints are ok and can make your outfit pop but if you want to play it safe you can not go wrong with a solid colour that flatters your skin tone.
A button down shirt or blouse is also good (provided there is no gaping) just again go for solid classics, white, black, or pastels.
If you are wearing a black suit avoid black or white, you do not want to look like a waiter or a hired hit-woman!
A lot of people think square necks look best with suits, this generally they are ok for most body types just make sure the neckline is not too low!

What to wear with your suit?
Heels, flats, bags, jewellery? So many things to consider!
Let's start with the bag. Something classic and big enough to hold a few copies of your resume. Keep it reasonably nondescript, as mentioned before you want the interviewer to remember you not what you are wearing.

Shoes. Heels or flats are fine, just make sure they are comfortable enough to walk a few blocks in. If the interview goes well you may have a lunch or another second interview to attend on the same day.

Jewellery. Avoid earrings that swish too much when you move your head, these can be very distracting to an interviewer when you are talking. Wear a watch, (even if you use your phone to check the time!) subconsciously it signifies reliability and punctuality to an interviewer. Necklaces are fine just make sure it works with the rest of the outfit.