Dress code varies by workplace, especially in LHSI sites that range from labs to clinical to office settings.

• Casual dress may be appropriate for everyday work in lab settings.
• Many office and clinical sites require business casual dress for everyday work, though this has relaxed in some places since COVID.
• Shorts, sleeveless tops, and sandals/other open-toed shoes are a no-go at almost every site for professional and safety reasons.

Aim for at least business casual for LHSI interviews. The exact definition of “business casual” differs from place to place, but here are some helpful guidelines:

• When in doubt, it’s better to be over-dressed than under-dressed!
• Stick to neutral colors with clothing, makeup, and jewelry – bright colors can be distracting in person and on video and should be worn sparingly.
• A nice top should be ok for a video or in person interview, but no t-shirts or hats.
• Wear closed-toe shoes (but not Crocs!).
• Cleanliness and grooming are just as important as clothing. This includes head hair, facial hair, finger nails, skin, etc.
• Cover visible tattoos and remove facial piercings. Like dress code, this rule varies but it’s best to start and then relax when you see what others do.
• Wear something that makes you feel confident and comfortable.

For virtual interviews, test out what you look like on screen before the interview. For instance, if your screen only shows waist up, then it is okay to dress business casual and look presentable waist up.

For in person interviews, make sure your entire outfit is business casual. Remember, what you wear plays a big role in your first impression, so make sure you put thought into your outfit.

If you have a question about a particular item or outfit or are in need of something appropriate to wear, please let us know as soon as possible. The sites are relatively flexible and understanding during interviews. Just do your best. They (and we) want you to succeed and we’re here to help!

Most importantly, your interview attire has to be something that makes you feel comfortable and confident. If that’s a full suit and tie or a formal dress, then wear that!

Hire Attire

Paws’ Closet opened Fall 2018 to connect IU Indianapolis students to FREE everyday clothing, business attire, and accessories such as ties, shoes, and simple jewelry. Many students have used this resource. As of spring 2024 Paws Closet has been renamed Hire Attire and is now based in the Office of Student Employment. Hire Attire is a free service available to all IU Indianapolis students to expand their professional wardrobe for interviews, career fairs, or even a new job.

The closet is located in Hine Hall room 210. Students will make an appointment through SAS to look through the many clothing options available. They will be guided through the process by the Hire Attire Ambassador who can assist with looking into what items they need and helping plan out outfits for the occasion.

Items are available on a first-come, first-served basis and depend on received donations. Typical items include suits, blazers, dress shirts, dress pants, slacks blouses, dresses, professional footwear, belts, and some accessories.

Contact the ambassadors with any of your interview dress code questions.