1)     How important is a professional image when entering the work world?

 Not just important,  it is actually the most important!

Imagine going to formal ballroom party in a bikini... The last thing you'd want to show is a misrepresentation of yourself.  Much like a  professional image that dictates professional answer in every conversation. Professional image has a non-written dress code in every working environment that has no substitute 

2)     What are steps people  to build a professional wardrobe without breaking your budget?

As long as what you wear is clean and crisp (by ironing) clothes look professional.  It does not have to be new. Having new clothes once in a while is good but it is never a requirement to look professional.

3)     How would you describe an ideal job interview style for women?

Women going for an interview for an office job: black or anything very dark, blazer will complete the look.  If going for an interview for a factory work wear something white or light color.  Accent yourself with simple jewelry and never forget a watch.  Watch means that you care for time. Clean shoes and bag will complete the look.

4)     How would you describe an ideal job interview style for men?

Men going for an interview for an office job: black or anything dark suit with matching tie that fits your skin tone will complete the look.  Clean black shoes is a must with black socks.  If going for an interview for a factory work wear something white or light colors with collar. Accent yourself with a watch which means you care for time. Watch can be a focal attention so wear something simple. 

5)     What is a common mistake people make when dressing for a job interview?

Clothes that are too trendy can be misunderstood. Make sure your clothes will not be interpreted as a clown outfit by a 55 year old interviewer. Common clothes is your best bet got all time.

Women:  Do not overdo your makeup in any job interview.
Men: Avoid that heavy hair mousse during interview.

Women and Men:  Avoid perfume if you can.  Smell of a perfume can remind someone in many ways.  The worst thing that could happen is for you to smell someone the interviewer hates, or had bad experience, or just fired.

6)     What are some fashion or accessory items that could be essential for an interview?

Watch means you will not be late to work.  Earrings for women means your care for details )Make sure earrings and watch are simple).  Bag that contains your paperworks is a must.

7)     What advice would you give someine entering the work world on a tight budget?

Wear clean and crisp all the time when at work, it’s enough to be respected.  Simplicity in your clothing is noble as long as you are not wearing something old fashion that will make you look as if you do not have TV at home or never watch one before.   If you buy clothes, maintain the flow of your style.  You can’t be Lady Diana-look the first day and be Lady Gaga the next day and Cat Woman the day after. Create your own identity in a simple way that gives your own character its own version.  No copy cat, or you will be dubbed and nick named as such like " the lady in red or the Lady Gaga"

8)     What are some style alternatives for people on a tight budget?

Anything with collar is good for work is good.  Minimize show of skin.  If your next job assignment is speaking in a crowd, wear something with strong color, like red.  So reserve those colors that you have in your wardrobe for that occasion.