suit for interview for smoeone who doesn't wear suits and hour glass shape

[Anonymous]

I'm size 10 on top and 8 on bottom (sometimes 8 for both) and I am looking for 2-3 business suits to interview in. I'm not accustomed to wearing suits so I need something that is both appropriate for a relatively conservative industry but that feels comfortable. I'd WAY rather wear a dress - I don't feel like "me" in an interview - but I need a suit and am coming to terms with that. Nothing too harsh.

Any suggestions? Specific links welcome. I'm on a budget so no suggestions to Neiman Marcus; I'm more about outlet stores. I have a very hour-glass figure. (Large breasts, small stomach).

[Anonymous]

Try the Kasper ASL outlet at the Potomac Mills Mall (or the Queenstown outlets or the one nearest wherever you are). Their suits aren;t of the finest fabrics but they're lined and definitely better than Wal-mart quality.

They've got a wide selection if suits and the prices are good enough that you could afford to tailor if you need different sizes in the top and the vottom.

It's definitely a conservative type of place too.

This is a review I found on Yelp:
If you are a business woman in need of business attire and don't want to break the bank - than this is your store.

They had a large selection of women's skirt suits, pant suits, dresses, blouses. All look very professional and was definitely work clothing.

The sales associate that helpmed me pick out a couple of suits made some very good recommendations, she was helpful and friendly. I ended up buying 2 suits here and they gave me a discount.

[Anonymous]

PP here- sorry - links here to MD and VA outlets:

http://www.outlet-locator.com/Kasper/state/Maryland
http://www.outlet-locator.com/Kasper/state/Virginia

Quality may differ among outlets.

[Anonymous]

I'm another hourglass, 12 top, 10 bottom. The problem with Kasper is that they sell suits together, so both the jacket and the skirt/pants will have to be the same size. I would try a place where you can get pieces separately, like Macy's or Lord & Taylor. As for outlets, maybe the Jones New York or Banana Republic outlets in Leesburg?

[Anonymous]

You don't think you could wear a structured dress with a jacket in the same material?

[Anonymous]

Hi,
To clarify, I'm looking for links to specific outfits. Online stuff would be perfect! I am new at this!
For me a structured dress with a blazer would sorta have the same affect... but it's a good idea! I'm interviewing in a formal/conservative industry although it's not my background.
Thanks.

[Anonymous]

The Limited.

Seriously, go there, the outfits are sorted by color and the entire thing is right there - and they are cut well for an hourglass shape. They have various styles - A-line, wide leg pants, pencil skirts, shorter or longer jackets, many of them belted...or a dress with a matching jacket...

And usually there is a 'buy a bottom get the jacket for 50% off' or something like that. Plus the material is stretchy, not confining like traditional suit-wear.

http://www.thelimited.com/Top-Look/August12_outfit_09,default,pd.html?start=22&ppid=c22&cgid=top-looks
http://www.thelimited.com/Top-Look/August12_outfit_15,default,pd.html?start=24&cgid=top-looks
http://www.thelimited.com/Top-Look/August12_outfit_22,default,pd.html?start=25&cgid=top-looks
http://www.thelimited.com/Top-Look/August12_outfit_27,default,pd.html?start=27&cgid=top-looks (think with a jacket)

Also, don't rule out buying tops/bottoms separately in basic colors...I found a great black skirt online at Banana Republic (the 'modern' A-line) that looks great with a white jacket from H&M and a solid shell underneath. Conservative, but fits very well. That might be your best bet if you're on a short timeline - one mall trip and you're done.

Definitely pay attention to your accessories, too...that will make or break the outfit. No scuffed shoes, simple jewelry, new-looking purse, etc.