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Suit Jacket!

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Anonymous

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Suit Jacket! I have a final interview on Tuesday. It's a VP level job. I dressed up for the two web interviews, the interviewers did not seem to be dressed up. The headhunter mentioned a suit.

I do not want to wear a suit, because I'm fat and it's hot. Argh! Talking myself out of going on this interview.

What do you think? Does a VP job interview need a suit jacket?

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  1. Anonymous

    You need to show this position and interview the respect it deserves…wear the suit jacket and rise to the occasion.

  2. Anonymous

    Your recruiter told you to wear a suit jacket to this final interview.
    And you’re thinking about ignoring this advice and skipping the interview? If you’re truly going to withdraw from consideration over a piece of clothing then call the headhunter and rescind your application now so they can remain focused on other candidates. This comes off as a bit of a temper tantrum. It’s surprising to me that you’d self sabatoge a final interview over a business attire.

  3. Balanced372207

    Excellent answer.

  4. Anonymous

    Suit it up. If you are unhappy with your weight, be monochromatic on your color. All black or all red, there are light linen suits, it's still a thing to be professionally dressed. The recruiter may have had feedback on prior candidates on how they presented themselves. You can't judge what they're wearing, they have jobs. I bet you will be happier wearing with my suggestion. You got this!

  5. Anonymous

    I hate to be the bad guy, yet I've been interviewing and HOPING to get where you are: the potential offer.

    All along, I've been wearing a suit.

    I'm not bitter about it being a good fit professionally for the roles- yet losing out to people that complain about this after they got to the stage I could have.

    Pick black or any color you prefer.

    Wear a nice sleeveless top underneath, and put the jacket in the car until you have to wear it and take it off after.

    If you decide to cancel the interview over this, it's your prerogative. But then there's no right to complain you can't find a job

    Oh...I was involved in an accident and have a brace on my arm that the suit has to go over. Talk about hot and inconvenient. But I'm doing what I have to.

  6. Anonymous

    If you are not comfortable in a suit, there are plenty of professional VP worthy dresses and skirt options that would fit the occasion.

    You certainly don't need a suit to dress appropriately. Think Amal Clooney who never wears a suit as an Attorney but is always beautiful and professional and holds a much more visible position.

  7. Anonymous

    JMO, but yes. Everyone looking for a job should have to suck it up and wear a suit during an in-person interview (no matter what others are wearging).

  8. Anonymous

    Yes especially on a VP level. But you can wear a tank top underneath or even a T-shirt.

  9. Anonymous

    I guess the bottom line is how bad do you want this job? My guess is that if you're even bothering to ask this question is that you don't really want it. It NEVER hurts to dress to impress on an interview, even if you feel overdressed and uncomfortable for the short time you'll be wearing the clothes. And you're asking this about a VP level position interview??! If this is your final interview, chances are the CEO or their equivalent will be there & likely this will be their first impression of you. I guarantee the other candidates will be dressed for the occasion, so unless you really want to take yourself out of the running, spiff up & look like you're taking the interview seriously. You can always ask about the company dress code at the interview. Sounds like it's casual, but this is not the time for YOU to be casual. Dress up, get the job & you'll have the rest of your time at the company to wear more comfortable clothes.

  10. June Weatherbee

    Wear the suit !!

  11. Anonymous

    I agree. This is one of those situations where you have to dress the part.

    What really concerns me is the bigger picture: deciding what to wear as a VP should be the least of your concerns. Imagine the decisions if hired

  12. Anonymous

    Best comment. Agree. And I would NOT want to work for this person.

  13. Balanced372207

    Great comment! And so on point.

  14. Anonymous

    Thank you!!I am hoodie, scrunchie, ball cap and Levi's gal, but recognize there's a time and place for everything.To me, VP interview -- dress up

  15. Anonymous

    Thanks!!

  16. Anonymous

    I'm not sure I understand the problem. Putting a light jacket or cardigan over a short-sleeved shirt, tank, or camisole helps hide some of the body image you have a problem with and is not much hotter than wearing a t-shirt. This is no reason to pass on a possible VP position. Especially if that is what you have been working toward. The webcam on your computer probably projects more weight than you realize, so it's not like they won't be expecting it. Keep focused on the positive: your drive, ambition, knowledge, and experience. Your confidence will speak much louder than your weight.

  17. Barb Hansen

    do you need to wear a suit jacket for a senior executive interview?

    IMHO, no.

    Should wear some sort of over-garment that looks professional?

    IMHO, yes.

    An unstructured jacket would work.

    The issue around how an additional layer adds to how hot and uncomfortable we feel, linen is a great choice if you have the ability to buy a new jacket before Tuesday.

  18. Sarah Hall

    Yes

  19. Eagles Aerie 631

    be uncomfortable if you want this position! Life isn't an easy chair

  20. Zoey Price

    yes, just do it make a good impression GOOD LUCK

  21. Kristie White

    Yes. Dress for the level of respect you want.

  22. Anonymous

    Suit jacket doesn’t have to be stuffy, there are many fashionable choices and come in knit stretchy fabric. I would wear something smart for the interview

  23. Afo Ogbeyalu Kalu

    YES!!!!

    If not a suit, suit separates, or a dress and blazer. This is the etiquette for interview attire; especially for C-Level Suite, upper management positions . . .

    Travel with your blazer off to keep cool, freshen up in the restroom at the interview site, and don your jacket before you meet with the interviewer(s).

  24. Jo Ann Egan-Gindville

    Yes it does and you can wait to put the suit jacket on once you arrive at the air conditioned office.

  25. Gillian Bradford

    I would wear a sleeveless professional dress and take a suit jacket for the interview. Good luck and fingers crossed

  26. Anonymous

    The headhunter told you to wear a suit. Do you want the job or not? It doesn’t matter what any of us think or whether it should or shouldn’t be.

  27. Anonymous

    Agreed. I would wear a full gorilla costume (if they asked me to) at this point if a good job was at stake.

  28. Balanced372207

    Do you want the job, or don't you. Put on a suit, and take it off after the interview. If you are inflexible about wearing a suit to the interview, what ELSE are you inflexible about?

  29. Anonymous

    Making yourself physically uncomfortable just so somebody else can decide you look “professional” enough to work for them isn’t a matter of flexibility.

  30. Anonymous

    I an also fat and run very hot, even in the winter, so when I interviewed for VP roles I would always wear a suit dress with short sleeves or a 3 quarter sleeve jacket with a sleeveless dress. Good luck!

  31. Linda Quarshie

    It is possible that so far they haven’t really seen the “executive presence” in you and for the HR person to specifically say that, take it as a hint and if you want the job then do it. A lot of fat people wear suits in the summer and Uber right to the door so you are not sweaty. Good luck and congratulations for making it this far.

  32. Anonymous

    Depends on the industry and company size. By the fact you're asking this question, I'm guessing this is possibly the first time you've interviewed for a position at this level. If you're not comfortable wearing suits then don't wear a suit. If they don't give you the job because you're not dressed at the level they would like, this would have been a problem in your regular workday also because you likely wouldn't have been dressing up to the expected level for a VP day to day either.

  33. Kelly Cranford

    Better to be over dressed and show respect than casual. You could wear a nice dress or blouse (long or 3/4 sleeves) since this will be your 3rd interview. VP's don't wear suits everyday but they do always dress professionally.

  34. Mara Jevera Fulmer

    As others have pointed out, keep your eye on the ball and think more about the substance of the interview.

    I’m not by any means thin. But if you’re uncomfortable with a suit, I’ve found lightweight dusters or longer jackets work well with a 3/4 or short sleeved loose dress, or shirt with pants. It’s all about professional presentation of you, not a fiction.

    I’ve also had colleagues work with a stylist to help them find clothes that will look professional but are also comfortable to wear.

  35. Nadine Bonner

    The difference is in the details. I can only speak from my own experience. I was a hiring a graphic designer. One candidate showed up wearing jeans. The other candidate wore a suit. Both were very talented. I hired the one in the suit because I felt his attire indicated he was serious about wanting the job. He never had to wear a suit again in the office.

  36. Anonymous

    Deciding who to hire based on the way they look is about the least professional hiring practice I can think of.

  37. GirlBossanova934974

    Here's a simple approach. So what is the annual salary for this VP job? Write that down. Is a a job worth a big chunk of dollars worth wearing a suit for a few hours? This is NOT to say this suit is going to be the difference maker BUT it probably will not hurt. Pretty simple choice to me.

  38. Anonymous

    Wear a nice dress, that's sleeveless/short sleeved, with a suit jacket over it. You can accessorize to dress the look up or down. I think looking polished and 'the part' is important so you come across with the right gravitas for the role. In the end, it should be your abilities and experience that get you the role, but how people dress leans into unconscious assumptions. Make sure you are leaving their unconscious thoughts about you with a positive impression. I'm sure once you have the job, the dress will be much more relaxed.

  39. Anonymous

    Think about the look holistically. For my current role as a contractor, I had two Zoom interviews scheduled by the staffing agency (my employer of record), and I actually wore a suit to both of them, even though I work in IT, which is pretty casual.

    Note: I am fat, and I was hot, but since it was in my home, I was able to turn the thermostat down and have my ceiling fan on the highest setting.

    In the first interview, I had my hair down, and in the second interview, I had my hair pulled back in a low bun. Before the start of my first interview, the scheduler said nothing; at the start of the second interview, he remarked on how professional I looked. Literally, the only thing that was different was how did my hair.

    As others have pointed out, I think you can look professional without making yourself uncomfortable. Lightweight-material jackets and sweaters can achieve a buttoned-up look without adding a lot of layers. Good luck with your interview!

  40. Victoria Zona

    Always dress up in person or web interview. It’s simple no ever looses a job for being over dressed but you can be skipped over for not dressing appropriately.

  41. Lisa Marie

    Yes.

    Nothing else need to be said.

  42. Julie McGovern, EdD

    I loathe suits, but, like others have said, you can get that professional look in other ways than a traditional full suit. Remember to dress for the job you want, but when you feel good about what you’re wearing, you project more confidence. Congrats on getting this interview, and good luck!

    Also, a gentle reminder to some of the respondents. The original poster is nervous. Let’s support her and help her feel at ease with positive alternatives instead of posting snarky remarks.

  43. Anonymous

    You can tell from a lot of the replies here that many of the people responding have never dealt with being plus size and having to buy a specific piece of clothing on short notice. It’s not as simple as just a trip to the mall for those of us with larger bodies. Yes, there are shops that carry plus size clothing, but the inventory per size at those places is often limited, and even if they have something in her size, she might still need to get it tailored to look polished.

    That said, if the OP doesn’t already have something in her closet that looks polished enough, I’d make a trip to the mall to see if I can find something workable, and/or if she has enough time, order a rush box from Dia or Stitch Fix with the specific request for professional interview attire.

  44. Anonymous

    Many companies are going more casual these days but there’s no way to know for sure. The VPs where I work are usually in dress jeans and shirts, no suits, but this company may be dressier. I would dress based on those who interviewed you on video chat. If they were more casual than dress shirt and tie is probably good. If they were dressier than I’d wear a suit. Your recruiter should have more insight on how the company operates. Good luck in the interview!!

  45. Anonymous

    Try Torrid. They have some nice blazers in all sizes that flatter your figure.

  46. Carol Noble

    Yes.

  47. Anonymous

    No, you don't need a suit. The quality should feel elevated but a blouse and pants or a dress is always appropriate. Personally, I would pull out a cool accessory or something like that also. You should wear what's comfortable for you while also being respectful. You got this, good luck!

  48. Anonymous

    Maybe the OP has a skill set that doesn’t involve “fashion”? Hard to believe that there are other valuable skills, I know, but they do exist. The fact that she gotten this far certainly implies that she’s bringing something other than fashion savvy to the table.

  49. Anonymous

    A blouse and dress pants is appropriate if that's more comfortable for you. If you choose to wear a suit, you can always take off during interview if in person. As long as your attire is professional I don't think it would be a problem.

  50. Anonymous

    Bring a suit jacket to the interview. If the interviewers dressed more casual, then you can leave the jacket aside. If they are dressy, then you put the jacket on for the interview, should just be an hour or two.

    I worked for banks, these days the culture is a lot more casual. I have seen VP with tattoos and wear polo shirts during the day, but when they go to meetings with the executive team or clients they put on the jacket to show respect.

    For job interviews, dress for success is important. Even if you are slightly dressier than the interviewer’s that’s acceptable as you need to impress them, not the other way around.

    As some people mentioned here, there are plus size stores that sell’s comfortable and nice blazers or sweaters that would fit your body type. Invest in one of those pieces for work.

    Good luck on the search!

  51. Anonymous

    Wow, your comment is mean. Everyone in a VP position must become a VP for the first time - why on earth would you assume that she’s been a VP before? And even if she HAS been a VP, “VP” can mean different things in different companies - guessing you yourself haven’t been a VP before or you’d recognize this. It is one thing to be a high level VP in a Fortune 500, and quite another to be a VP in a tiny family-owned company. Questions of dress are not insignificant when you move from one type of company to another - it is quite possible that the OP is just very good at her job and questions of dress have not been at the top of the performance list at her current job. This community should be supportive of each other. Please moderate your comments accordingly.

  52. Anonymous

    This comment is unnecessary! We support each other here or we stay silent. Keep your negativity to yourself or stop coming to this site.

  53. Tara James

    I am also fat (very). I usually wear a white shirt and dressy draped pull on open shirt that kind of looks like a jacket but isn’t. It’s a fabric that breathes. Last in person interview I went to I sweated awfully so do wear something professional but cooling. Lane Bryant has lots of alternatives (but is pricey). You can do it, don’t let the dressing issue stop you.

  54. Karen Bannister

    The first two interviews were web - is this 3rd one in person? That could make a difference because people tend to dress more casually in virtual environments than in person. Another factor is the industry; although business casual is becoming more the norm, some still work in professional attire at the office.

    With that, it's always better to arrive over-dressed than under-dressed. You can never go wrong with a dark, neutral suit (notice I did not say black). I appreciated that it's hot, but you don't need to wear the jacket in transit. Wear a dress or nice slacks and blouse, and carry it with you. Put it on upon arrival. When you see how the interviewer is dressed, you can remove it.

    You never have a 2nd chance to make a 1st impression. Make it count.

  55. Anonymous

    Let’s keep mean comments to ourselves. We are meant to be a group of supportive people, not mudslingers. Why would you assume the OP has been a VP before? Every VP has had their first VP job at some stage! Also, the expectations of a VP at a Fortune 500 company are vastly different from those at a small family-owned company, and there is great variance within these, too.

    I’d personally rather manage (or work for) a VP who is good at their job and who thinks for themselves. “Fitting in” fashion-wise is not necessarily required at the VP level (at least not at any company I’d personally be willing to work for!), provided that the employee clearly keeps themselves clean and neat. I would never turn down an incredible employee due to not having the right suit coat - what a waste of talent for, as you say, a ‘tiny tiny insignificant piece of the role’. Fitting in is far more important at more junior levels where compliance is a big part of the role, in my experience.

    More to the point, if the company is going to say yes or no based on the existence of a suit coat, I’m going to guess that the OP would not want to work at these companies, as their priorities are clearly in the wrong place!

  56. Anonymous

    I get you! I personally hate suit jackets too. Your question is a bit tricky. In all honesty, if the role is right for you, they’re not going to turn you down over a suit jacket. If the company is that petty, do you really want to work for them? I think being neat and clean is the most important thing. It’s not going to look good if you’re sweating bullets and looking uncomfortable during the interview because you forced yourself to wear an uncomfortable suit jacket!

    That said, I use jackets for client meetings, etc., so always have a jacket with me just in case. I think it’s pretty standard to have one available ‘just in case’. My solution has been to buy the black sweater blazers from J crew to deal with this problem. They look formal but are very comfy (I have a big bust so most suit jackets don’t work for me). You could also just carry a jacket with you to the interview and just not put it on! It shows that you’re aware of the need for a jacket - just put it over the back of your chair. Good luck!

  57. Lorna Rose, J.D., M.S.

    What if the person she ends up interviewing with is blind? How will her professionalism be judged then? Maybe OP doesn't want to be bothered with such trivial things as what item of clothing to wear to an interview where she will be judged on her ability to do a really important job, because the item of clothing is essentially MEANINGLESS concerning her ability to be a great VP.

  58. Angelica Alvarez-Ibarra

    I think people still fall back on saying suits when what they really mean is dress professional. There are so many ways to pull off a polished high level look. If it’s not going to make you feel confident, Pinterest some inspo outfits. And I wouldn’t compare what you wear to interviewers if they’re dressed down. They already have their jobs. Good luck!!

  59. Anonymous

    I totally sympathize. I'm very busty, so finding a suit jacket that fits properly is next to impossible. During my most recent job hunt I wore business dressy blouses with skirts or pants. If your look is neat, professional, and polished you should be okay.

  60. Anonymous

    The “wear a suit” comment came from the headhunter. It might just be generic advice—headhunters aren’t typically looped into company culture.

  61. maria rose

    If sizing and weight plus heat ( outside weather) is your issue, it sounds like you haven’t looked or shopped for the newer styling options that are professional for your needs. You can look professional and be comfortable and confident in appearance because of the use of fabrics that will flatter you. I am going to agree that most shops don’t have sizing and options for real women figures but there are plenty of sites that offer better options—May I suggest one of those sites that take your measurements and give/ send you a set of options to try on before you buy or just rent for the occasion as needed. —Dia&Co as an example.— Right now, you need something professional to wear for an interview that will be comfortable and professional in appearance for the occasion. Once you land the job, then put together an entire wardrobe.

  62. Anonymous

    You be you. If it's hot wear something cotton and breathable. I would go to linkedin and view the profiles of those that you will be meeting with and as much as possible mirror any types of clothes that they all wear or look at the company photos or press release or careers page and use those as examples. A longer cardigan works in the absence of a suit jacket as well. Limit the makeup and jewelry so you do not distract, same for low cut blouses. Otherwise business casual is the norm. Ignore the headhunter. You will know best. And FYI real women have curves, don't be so self deprecating!

  63. Anonymous

    Yes a VP level needs a suit. You never want to show up under dressed. It’s disrespectful. It doesn’t matter what they wear, they have the job - they are taking time out to interview you. You always need to dress to impress / especially at the VP level. Plus the recruiter did you a favor and told you to wear a suit. Take the hint from them.

  64. Anonymous

    I would think so since it is high level! Blast that AC!

  65. Heather Cutler

    Earlier in my career I had multiple interviews for a job in a Government Relations department of a large health insurer. All the interviews went well, I was asked back several times to meet the team and given strong indications they’d eventually make an offer. During each interview, I paid very close attention to what others were wearing in the office…both men and woman. And I tried to mirror their attire in each subsequent interview. I made the fatal flaw of dressing too casually for my final interview. I was in a lovely pair of pants and a colorful silk top, I thought I nailed it! I didn’t get a job offer from this corporation and when I asked them for constructive feedback, they said my attire was not reflective of the corporate persona they wanted to project in congressional offices on Cap Hill. I NEVER made the mistake of under dressing for an interview since. Wear the suit, choose lighter fabrics that will keep you cool and flatter your shape. Don’t lose a role over a formal jacket.

  66. Anonymous

    I feel your pain as I am overweight and busty. It is really hard to find a suit that fits well. However, there are a lot more options now. For a VP position, I probably would go with a suit or dress regardless of what the interviewers are wearing, particularly if that was what was suggested or required.

  67. Anonymous

    I was always told dress for success and for interviewing, dress 1 level up. So if you see people wearing nice slacks and a blouse, you want to go into the interview like you want the job. So YES- wear a suit, it may be hot but its one day maybe an hour or two if your time

  68. William West

    I don’t know . You should try to talk to someone who had a successful interview, or maybe just ask your interviewer. You are usually not wrong to overdress. Maybe you just need a Jacket and tie. Best to talk to someone who knows

  69. Brie Wilkerson

    Wear a dress and a blazer if that will make you feel more comfortable (it will pass for a suit), either way remember your gifts/quality of experience speak for themselves and be confident in the suit even though, you do not love it.

  70. Heather (she/her)

    I feel you, for sure. Wear the most comfortable trousers you can find, and the lightest weight blouse you can get away with. If your hair is long, pull it up so it's off your neck. Then don't put on the suit jacket until the last possible second, and if there are breaks in the interview, use them to go to the bathroom and take it off for a second to cool down.

    Personally, I think it's ridiculous that clothes can make or break an interview, but if the recruiter specifically said suit, I wouldn't risk it if you want the job. Once you have it, you'll probably never have to wear the suit again.

  71. Jennifer Sharpnack

    My advice is a suit jacket would be expected at that level. We were always taught to dress a level higher than what you’re interviewing for…

  72. athenanow1

    Think of it this way: the first impression you will make is visual. If, as you enter the room you fit their image of a VP, they will be more open to seeing you that way. Whatever you say after that they will be more inclined to be positive about. If the jacket is a symbol to them, use it. Once they know you, how you look becomes less important. And if you know you look the part, it will be easier to take that first step into the room. It will be your armour! I am also a big woman, and I know it is hard to find a well-fitting and comfortable jacket, but they are out there, and I'm sure you will find one that is fabulous. Good luck!

  73. Anonymous

    Definitely wear a suit jacket whether with a dress, a skirt or tailored pants - whichever you find the most comfortable. It does help to dress for the level you are applying for. Remember the saying "dress for the job you want, not the job you have". I also wear large sizes and there are nice jackets out there, even if you have to spend a good amount. Keep the jacket off until you are ready to go into the location of the interview if it is hot out. Walk in there feeling polished and professional. Be confident and show them how valuable you really are! Good luck !

  74. Anonymous

    Don’t forget the 3/4 sleeve open blazer as an alternative. Those are usually structured enough to pair with a nice top or dress while keeping you a bit cooler.

  75. Anonymous

    Great advice, that's what I purchased (Kasper) since I gained weight and the jackets, pants and sleeveless tops have all been comfortable and attractive (even when I'm not feeling it myself. :))

  76. Anonymous

    I totally agree with the comments, wear a suit,

    I'd wear a dress and jacket, and do all the other heat survival tips, light blouse or dress, dress, hair up, and once you're sitting down, if appropriate remove the jacket.

    I'd also have a place to go afterwards, for an ice cold frap or coffee as a treat for surviving the heat in a suit!

    Good luck!

  77. Simone Bellamy

    #WearTheSuit

  78. Dawn Christian

    A good head hunter will set candidates up to be best positioned to win. So if they tell you to wear a suit, there's probably a good reason. If you don't have a traditional suit, try a maxi dress, some lightweight slacks, a sleeveless blouse, and a blazer for the suit look. Sometimes, separates can be easier to pull together and still be comfortable. Also, try a clothing rental service like Express or Rent the Runway or something like that. Those services usually give you multiple looks in your sizes and style preferences for one price, and you won't have to make the full investment. You got this!

  79. MP

    Good luck, hope it goes well today!!

  80. Deborah Vidmar

    Yes.

  81. Monique Strootman

    wear the suit.

    invest in a blazer that fits you comfortably.

    we all get a little sweaty in interviews.

    wear the suit [jacket].

  82. Anonymous

    Yes

  83. Anonymous

    Yes, definitely go with the suit. If you land the job, your daily attire can be tailored to the organization's culture. Good luck!

  84. Anonymous

    Please do. You'll look and feel like a million bucks. Go land that job. You got this!

  85. Amparo

    Wear what makes you comfortable, dress for yourself not for others, not because they told you to wear a suit! Be YOU and that's what they're going to hire not the suit.

  86. Maria Paula Calvo

    You´ve come to far on the way so you don´t want to miss the final step, right?

    How you dress will not be what guides the decisions, for sure. However, by now you may know the culture and stereotypes of your industry, sector, the company you are applying for itself, and the way you dress may have to do with you fitting that culture. If they tend to be quite formal, I believe you should consider it.

    Good luck! I know you´ll make it!!!!!

  87. Sharon Stewart

    Most definitely. Always look your best, especially for an executive role. Good luck and you got this!!!!

  88. Carolina Perez Sanz

    Yes!!! Dress the part! First impressions are unconscious and therefore, they don't follow "logic." If they see you look like the "stereotypical idea of what a VP looks like," you're more likely to get the job. You've got this!!!!! Good luck!

  89. Gem0124

    It's an executive level job! Wear the suit. I wouldn't put the jacket on until I was actually inside of the building that way you won't feel as hot.

  90. Valerie Rieger

    If the headhunter suggested it, then you should wear a suit. They wouldn't have suggested it if they didn't feel it was necessary.

    I'm plus sized and swore that when I left healthcare 20 years ago that I would NEVER wear another blazer. I bought some ponte knit blazers this year. They're pretty comfortable and have a lot of give.

  91. Guadalupe Diaz

    First impressions matter. In this case, first in-person impressions for a VP position matter a lot. Wear the suit for the interview. When you land the job, you'll see what the actual culture for clothing is and I'm sure you'll be able to dress down from a suit.

  92. Shirley Holmes

    Yes, wear the suit. One of the best designers for plus size upscale outfits is Argents, ASOS, Chadwicks, Eloquii, Lane Bryant, and Tahari (a little expensive look for sales). All of them have plus size business outfits that are affordable.

  93. Jos Waller

    Torrid is great too! They have great and interesting suit and work wear options as well as their fun and casual options. Wearing a suit for a C suite job is a must and there are options for everyone. Find a great tailor if you can't find a suit that fits well, and I'm sure this will make all the difference. Good luck to you!

  94. TC Tamara Nasser

    Always dress for the next level position you want.
    Your impression will last in the interview. Do not dress down, just because the person interviewing you failed to dress appropriately.

  95. Angelica

    Wear the suit…and some cute heels! ? And don’t talk yourself out of this interview, you have earned. I’m a curvy chick and Torrid or Eloquii are my go too for suits…and they are usually comfy.

    Take a personal fan and use it until you walk into the interview doors. The fan might be the icebreaker.

  96. Anonymous

    Love this vibe! Angelica you rock!

  97. Kaley

    Dress for the job you want! From showing horses, the rule is we always were our jackets!! You can handle it for a short while, I would suggest wearing a breathable shirt underneath and prepare by staying hydrate! Best of luck to you!! Youve got this!

  98. Anonymous

    Every woman, whether she is a size 2 or a size 22, should have at least two "interview" suits....a lightweight one and a heavier weight one. It will not kill you to wear a suit to an interview. If you cannot follow that simple instruction, I don't see you succeeding in a position where you may have to follow many instructions that you might not agree with.

  99. Anonymous

    Dressing professionally doesn't equal wearing a suit for me. I've seen sloppy suit-wearing and chic, professional separates at all levels. Wearing something that's reflective of you but more elevated keeps you comfortable, and respectful while hopefully revealing a bit of your personality. Personally, I couldn't do a dress code (I get that's not what this is) and choose fashion for a little daily self-expression.

  100. Anonymous

    The headhunter may know that culture, so pay attention to the advice. You can carry the jacket when you're outdoors. Indoors, you may encounter a freezing cold environment and be glad for the advice.

  101. Anonymous

    I think it's interesting all the people who are saying wear the jacket - especially in hot weather. I recently landed a Director position and given the weather, I wore a tailored dress to my final interview that was dark colors, but lightweight fabric. The interviewers actually complimented me on my apparel choice because of the heat. Sweating profusely in a jacket just for the sake of wearing a jacket for an interview is not a good look IMO.

    I wore the dress because it made me feel more comfortable and therefore confident - if the jacket isn't doing that for you, I'd skip it. Conversely, I also sometimes use a jacket as a confidence booster, but in cooler weather of course!

  102. Christine

    Can you wear a comfortable (not jeans) pair of pants and shirt and just carry the jacket? I don't think it matters that the interviewers on your web interviews weren't dressed up. After you get the job you can probably relax the attire but especially since you wore a suit the other times, it may have been something that moved you ahead of another candidate that didn't. You never know what motivates people. I feel you pain though, I'm heavy and the heat and a suit jacket sounds miserable to me. Luckily you likely won't have to wear it long. Good luck!

  103. Anonymous

    I would expect that a VP level candidate would dress the part for the interview at least. Leave the jacket off until you get into the building. I expect most people would be understanding of that.

  104. Anonymous

    Personally, if a suit was mentioned by the head hunter, I would wear one. As others noted--at least a professional pant suit.

  105. Anonymous

    Yes, a VP would know how to dress to impress and that should be how you want to sell yourself to the interviewer. You can put the jacket on the moment you get to the door and take it off when you leave the interview. It is a relative short amount of time and if you really expect to be hired as a VP you should dress like one. I would wear a suit if I was interviewing~no matter the position. What the interviewers wear does not matter to the process, you are the one making the first impression on the people and company. Listen to the headhunter, they know their clients. If you get the job you can inquire on their dress code.

  106. Anonymous

    Today I am interviewing for a role that is important to me for MANY reasons.
    It's not VP and I'll be on a zoom call with the camera on.

    I WILL have the jacket and nice shirt on (along with my prepared notes and jeans!!) because I want to dress to impress. Looking important - feeling important.

    BTW, the dress code is khakis -- business casual - and once I hopefully get the job, the jacket can return to my closet.

    20 min of inconvenience for hopefully......

  107. Anonymous

    Dress for success and for a first impression! After that, you may follow the dress code you see around you. Although I have always believed dressing better than those around me, often led to greater opportunities. Dress for the job (above you) that you want! PS Jackets can be slimming-- look and feel your best, good luck!

  108. Anonymous

    I would wear the suit. When I was a new graduate looking for a job fresh out of college I was told to always wear a suit for any professional job interview and this advice has served me well.

  109. Anonymous

    I don’t think you have to wear a pant suit per se, but it’s clear they expect you to dress up. I would imagine a professional dress or skirt with a blouse would do the same as a suit. I’m also assuming you’re female but I know there have been more male contributors recently so apologies if a suit is the only option!

  110. Kim Pfeiffer

    Yes. Dress for the job you want, not the job you have. You don't have the job yet.

  111. Tara O'Connor

    Wear the jacket, maybe over a light dress or skirt and blouse to keep cool. Linen maybe?

  112. Anonymous

    OP. Decided against a suit or suit jacket. The two highest people in the org were dressed like me, the next level down panel interviewers had jackets that did not look comfortable or normal. I needed to be me.

  113. Anonymous

    OP - I'm really curious to know if you were offered the position. Would you be comfortable posting here? There are still people posting in response to your question and given that you chose the non-traditional route of foregoing the jacket, it would be helpful to know if this ended up hurting your candidacy for the VP position.

  114. Susan Robles

    My two cents are women have so many rules for how we live and work. I wish we could just be. Clothes do not make the whole person, nor does hair. We need to stop having old fashioned ideas and create opportunities for us to be our authentic selves. I think.

  115. Susan Robles

    Related ish, shapermint? Does it work?

  116. Cyndi Rosenblatt

    Shapermint is complete crap. Ended up trashing all of it almost immediately because it was useless. I've tried Honeylove - it's so-so. Really like Ruby Ribbon, almost against my will (bit pricey and I generically dislike those type of businesses). But the Ruby Ribbon support camis (levels 4 & 5 - the lower support levels aren't supportive at all) are the ones I always reach for and they've stood up to repeated washings (don't put them in the dryer). I haven't tried their support bottoms - I prefer the high-waist, long-leg versions to avoid panty lines so generally go for the Target Spanx bottoms (go down one size if you need extra compression) as they are very reasonably priced.

  117. Gillian Lester-George de Montesinos

    I have stopped wearing suits and jackets for the most part. I usually wear dress pants and a nice top. If a company does not want to hire me because I did not wear a suit or jacket, it is probably not a company I want to work for.

    Would you wear a suit/jacket to work if you were hired? If not, I wouldn't wear one to the interview. Women are more than their clothes.

  118. Afo Ogbeyalu Kalu

    In an ideal world, in many instances, appearances should not matter . . .

    In the real world, they do, and for D/V/C- Level (Director, Vice President, Chief- Level) interviews, traditional corporate attire is expected, and reflects a candidate's respect for the position they are applying, and respect for the interviewing process. Once hired, an individual would follow the company dress code.

  119. D.Elizabeth Nathaniel

    Since it is VP level job interview the attire should be decent enough, that any one looking at the personality / dress shouldn’t be given a chance to ask the deviated questions . The suitable color, proper fitting , decent cover up is definitely an added qualification,which wouldn’t be given any chance of indecent deviations of the talking turns .

    always keep neat , suitable, good dresses - at least two pairs in spare for this sort of emerging situations - this preparation makes us always ready to face the official situations- allows not to disturb the technical readiness to approach the task. So in advance set the selected dresses a side at the cup board in a cover after properly pressing the dress .

    the neat dress , properly covered will always / definitely attains the honour and respect .

    so suitably coloured neatly fit dress you wear for the interview. It not only give pleasant appearance but the mind also will be at exalted state - which leaves you in delivering the decent words while delivering your opinion- hence always I give importance to the near and suitable dresses

    all the best for your interview, god bless you abundantly

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