In the College of Creative Arts and Media, the professional attire is as varied as the students and disciplines. In some professions wearing a hoodie to work every day is common and in others a tuxedo is required – so with that in mind, it is important to consult with your closest faculty, mentors, and professional organizations about the expectations in your unique career path. Professional dress is emphasized as a way to demonstrate readiness and ensure that nothing distracts from your qualifications.
When in doubt, dress more professionally
- Dress one level above the workplace standard.
- It is better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.
- For interviews, always default to business professional.
Grooming and Presentation
Your overall presentation matters just as much as your clothing.
Checklist
- Clothing is clean, pressed, and properly fitted.
- Hair is neat and intentional.
- Shoes are clean and appropriate.
- Accessories are minimal.
- Fragrance is light or avoided.
- Overall appearance is polished and put-together.
Industry Awareness Matters
Different creative fields have different expectations:
Corporate media / communications: business professional
Design / arts / entertainment: polished business casual
Startups / freelance: more flexibility, still intentional
How to prepare:
- Review the company’s website and social media.
- Observe how employees dress.
- Ask your recruiter or interview contact how employees typically dress.
- Use networking insights or prior experience
Understanding Professional Dress Codes
Professional attire exists on a spectrum. Knowing these categories will help you dress appropriately for interviews, events, and workplace environments.
Business Professional (Recommended for Interviews)
The most formal standard—and the expectation for interviews and employer-facing events.
Best for:
- Interviews
- Career fairs
- Employer presentations
- Networking events and formal programs
Key Elements
- Matching two-piece suit (pants or skirt)
- Long-sleeve dress shirt or conservative blouse
- Tie (optional depending on role/industry)
- Closed-toe dress shoes (heels, flats, or professional dress shoes)
Business Casual
A flexible but still professional dress code commonly used in many workplaces.
Examples:
- Dress pants, khakis, or tailored pieces
- Blouses, polos, or button-down shirts
- Sweaters or cardigans
- Optional blazer
- Loafers, flats, or dressy leather sneakers
Guidelines
- Dark jeans are acceptable only if clean and without rips or tears
- Dresses and skirts should be modest and knee-length
- Coordinated separates (not a full suit) are appropriate
- Ties are not required
Smart Casual
A polished but relaxed style appropriate only in certain creative or informal environments.
Must be:
- Clean, neat, and wrinkle-free
- Coordinated and intentional
- Still professional in appearance
- Optional blazer
- Loafers, flats, or dressy leather sneakers
Avoid
- Hoodies
- Graphic t-shirts with inappropriate content
- Athletic wear or sweatpants
- Distressed or overly revealing clothing
Dressing for Creative Media Industries
Creative fields allow for more individuality—but professionalism still comes first.
Best Practices:
- Dress professional first, then add personal style
- Incorporate subtle personality (color, accessories, textures)
- Align your look with the employer’s brand or aesthetic
- Avoid overly trendy or distracting pieces
- Your goal is to show creativity while maintaining a polished, professional image
What to Avoid
- Avoid anything that distracts from your qualifications
- Wrinkled, ripped, or poorly fitting clothing
- Flip-flops or overly casual shoes
- Athletic wear (unless context-specific)
- Loud patterns or excessive accessories
- Revealing or unprofessional fits