I have had some sort of job in accounting since the fall of 2003. One thing I always notice when magazines or popular bloggers do posts about what to wear on an interview is that they must have never held a job in a traditional office. These posts always seem geared towards more creative jobs. Professional jobs (like lawyers or accountants) tend to be more conservative and buttoned down. This means that when you are interviewing for a job in finance or accounting you should know your audience. Remember you are asking someone to take you seriously as a person who is analytical and good with numbers. Your interview outfit should convey the same level of professionalism as the office you are entering. This is what to wear to an Accounting Interview. 
What to wear to an Accounting Interview
First off I would suggest spending money on quality pieces that you can wear again and again throughout the first few years of your career. If you are entering the audit field you can easily get lots of wear out of your interview clothes on the first day at a new audit client. I always dressed the most conservative on the first day of a new audit until I got a feel for what was the appropriate dress code at the clients offices.
- Keaton Wrap Coat – Unless you are interviewing in the heat of the summer, you will need a classic looking coat to throw over your interview outfit. I would stick with a classic shape in wool. Throwing a parka or puffer jacket over an interview outfit is just not overly professional looking.
- Rhodes Blazer – Even if you have blazers in a bunch of fun colours and patterns I would stick with a classic shape and colour for an accounting interview. Navy, grey or black are your best candidates.
- Pencil skirt – While I tend to prefer pants on a regular day at the office I do prefer a skirt for an interview. A classic wide leg trouser would also work for an interview, it really depends on your preference and what is going to give you the confidence you need to rock the interview.
- Silk Window Pane blouse – If there is one place that you can add some personality to your interview outfit it is through your blouse. Maybe a cheeky print or a pop of colour. If you want to play it safe go with a classic blue or stripe.
- Multistrand pearl necklace – Sticking with the classic feel of the interview outfit I added this multi strand pearl necklace. To be honest I would also be ok with keeping it simple and just wearing earrings.
- ‘Jaime’ Pump – Another way to add a bit of fun to your interview outfit is through your shoes. Whether it is a embossed leather or a pop of colour it is a subtle way to up the ante.
- Work Satchel – Don’t let your bag ruin your interview outfit. Make sure to carry something professional, something with structure. Something you would be proud to pull your business card out of and share with clients. More on what bag to carry to an interview here.
If you have to go through second and third interviews this is when you can interpret what is appropriate based on what everyone else is wearing. Look to the interviewers and other top executives to set the tone. You might want to switch it up and wear trousers if you had worn a skirt the first time or vice versa. Or mix and match pieces to create a modern looking suit.
What are you wearing to your next accounting interview?