I've never worn a suit in my life . .

Soldato
Joined
14 Apr 2004
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It's now time to buy one, I received the following email:

My name is Steve Carroll from BMW Plant Oxford IT. I have been sent a copy of your CV regarding a student placement opportunity and we would like to bring you in for an interview.

Please let me know if you are still interested / available and would like details of the appointment.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Regards,

Steve

A number of friends were declined and I don't know anyone who's been called for an interview yet. When my friends were contacted they told, that over 1500 applications had been received and the number of places are very limited for the position. My peers had told me I was wasting my time, as my chances were weak. I obviously didn't have none of that . . . . my placement tutor said there's something very different about me, what I've done and there's a lot more than meets the eye. I did spend a number of days working some of the toughest questions for the application form.

Wow! is all I can say. It's the Software Development department over at the Mini plant, that produces all the Mini's in the world.

I've always blagged my way out of wearing a suit at weddings and large events, but now I have no choice but to get one. Any recommendations on brands/places to try and what's a winning combination?
 
Since you don't seem to like wearing a suit and you'll probably only wear it as a one off, there's no real point in spending a fortune. You best bet is an off the rail suit from Marks and Spencer. Keep it simple. Don't go for any of these so called fashionable "slim fits" or anything, keep it traditional. A black or charcoal suit is probably best.

Avoid River Island, Next, Matalan and other such places, their suits are cheap, look cheap and will fall apart and develop a shine after a few wears. M&S are one of the best for <£200 suits on the high street. You'll get teenagers coming on here saying "Next suits look smart m8y lol" but don't listen to them.
 
could always try renting a good un

or ask mates/family who are similar size to you ?

better to borrow a smart/decent suit than to buy a crap un
 
black / charcoal 2/3 button single breasted suit, white shirt, simple tie and smart black shoes and you will be fine

as a one off £150-200 should cover it
 
Yes, no matter what anyone tells you, don't wear brown shoes. Its is not "well smart" and it is not clever. Don't do it. Square toes are a bad idea too. No brown and no square toe. Black belt too.

And for the love of god, do NOT, I repeat, DO NOT WEAR A BLACK SHIRT. Negative on the black. Stick with a white shirt and a solid tie, red is always a winner.

Another thing, get the trousers taken up to the correct length. Nothing looks worse than baggy suit trousers. Don't get a suit to "grow into". Get one that fits you properly. You dont want stressed buttons or american footballer shoulders.
 
I'm not going to give you any suit advice as you have had plenty so far.

But, from your initial post, you say that there is "something very different about me, what I've done and there's a lot more than meets the eye".

It could be risky, but what if you went in a clean t-shirt and jeans? You are student and the people interviewing you, were exactly the same at some stage. If they ask you why you didnt fancy dressing up, tell them that you "believe you are ideal for the role, have all the relevant credentials and that you didnt think wearing a suit should have any bearing on whether or not you get hired." (pause) Then tell them, "That, I dont own a suit and am flat broke."

I promise you that after you leave, you will not be thought of just another candidate. They will refer to you as 'the one in the t-shirt'. If you are very very good and what comes out of your mouth is exactly what they are looking for, then it could be an idea to do this.

Only a candidate who is exceptional and knows he is, should ever do something like this and the interviewers would also know this. Of course, if you dont think you are that "great", then DONOT do the above, as your application will be thrown out and you will be thought of as some cocky so-and-so.

Whatever you do though, dont panic or get over-anxious, as this is just a student placement. If you dont get this one then I'm sure you will get something else. Just dont put too much pressure on yourself and good luck.

When is your interview, btw?
 
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