Shop to the Top

Show them you’re worth hiring by spending a bit of time on your image.

Clean hair, clothes and nails, and a subtle perfume or aftershave are a must for guys and gals, as are simple jewellery and fresh makeup for the ladies.

You also need the perfect interview outfit. However, striking the balance between conservative and stylish, and doing it on a student budget to top it all, can be a bit of challenge.

What to wear and where to get it

Luckily, the high street is awash with affordable, stylish formal wear that is perfect for any interview. Here’s three of the best places to kit yourself out.

1. Next

The Next website has a workwear section for women with lots of suitable attire that is still youthful and attractive.

They do a good range of sizes and the clothes are well made which is great if you expect to be going on a few interviews!

Have a look at their grey check bootcut trousers and classic black pencil skirt (which would also look fab dressed up for the evening!)

If you fancy a dress, they do a lovely black shift for only £40.

The website has the added bonus of being presented as a catalogue, so you can see how pieces work together, such as this whole sexy yet smart ensemble.

For the blokes, Next have a wide range of suits, shirts and ties to fit all budgets and taste, from very formal through to smart/casual.

Their performance suits are the best value for money and are a good investment for later on in your career, or for the inevitable family function you’ll have to attend!

Next also do shirt and tie combinations for around £25 so you don’t even have to spend time worrying about which tie goes with your outfit. [-[quote]-]

2. Zara

If you’re looking for smart attire in neutral colours that’s good value for money, you’re guaranteed to find something in this Spanish high street store.

Zara is especially good for the boys, as it has an extensive suit department and a wide range of colours and styles of shirts.

The only problem is that the sizing can vary from item to item so always try before you buy to ensure you’re looking your best.

3. New Look

It might not be the first place you’d think of but New Look have really embraced tailoring recently and are showcasing demure styles with a flirty twist.

Admittedly, they don’t wear as well as Next but they’re much cheaper.

Pick up a blazer for just £20 and some smart trousers for only £12 – when workwear is that affordable it doesn’t matter if you don’t wear them again!

Or if you’re feeling a bit more daring, dazzle your future boss in this ruched skirt (which can also be easily dressed up for a night out too).

New Look also do a smart men’s range, including bootcut trousers in a wide range of leg lengths and waist sizes, for a reasonable £20.

Don’t forget to pick yourself up some new shoes too – try these £30 versatile black lace ups which are sure to come in handy in the future for a stylish 21st party or end of term ball.