what to wear to a job fair

Key word- professional.

A black suit can look great if you wear a blouse with color and maybe a nice unique pin on the lapel.

The standard used to be 2 inch heels, enough to get a lift and make the legs look good, but not high or spiked.

Makeup that looks natural, not overdone.

Hair that is neat and trimmed.

Look like someone people would want to leave their kids with to get an eduation.

I'd say low or no heel. The black suit would work with a colorful blouse (not too colorful, though - no fucshia, etc.)

And think about your purse/briefcase. They are part of your professional image, too.

Take it easy with perfume, and keep the jewelry conservative.

Hmm, a black suit could be fine, especially if worn open with a colorful shirt.

Pumps are the least-risky shoes, with a medium heel. (1.5/ 2 inches.)

Describe the suit -- what kind of material? Pants or skirt? Etc.

Oh, hi mac and Camille! Consensus seems to be brewing... :-D

The jacket and skirt are some sort of super-duper travel material that doesn't wrinkle and is stain resistant. It actually feels nice and soft, drapes slightly, and has a matte finish. Plain buttons, single breasted. I thought about khaki dress pants instead of the skirt???

I have an azure blouse that I usually wear with the suit.

I dunno... If I were choosing, I'd want someone who projects a professional, yet warm appearance. I'm aiming for science teaching, so I'd like to look like I can go outside and know what's what. Professional, yet a bit granola. Is that possible?

Hmmm, it's a job fair, which has its own rules. At a job fair, you want to go for professional. You haven't said yet whether the suit is pants or a skirt; pants and nice oxfords/ loafers that coordinate could be professional but a little sportier.

Generally, they're not expecting that you'll wear to the job fair what you'll wear to work, they're expecting that you know how to present yourself professionally. I see what you're saying about image, but khakis seem too casual.

You can do the "a bit granola" with hairstyle, makeup (or lack thereof) and jewelry.

The suit has a plain black skirt. You're probably right, sozobe.

But I wanted an excuse to buy new clothes!!!

The suit sounds promising. That, your azure blouse (unless it's satin or something shiny), some nice pumps, some slightly individualistic/ granola jewelry, and a soft hairstyle (to counteract the severity of the black suit), and you're good to go! :-D

Just saw your last comment... ha! Well, confidence is incredibly important, and if you think you'd be more confident in a new suit...

Good points! Carry a briefcase or portfolio, not loose papers!

Is a tote bag okay?

Yes, a tote bag can be fine, as long as it looks neat. You know, not a beach bag or a diaper bag or some such...

Buy a new suit. Treat yourself. Something other than black. blue or brown, tho. Here's your excuse...it'll be springtime!! Nothing wrong with a more festive, stand-out color if you wear color well. And a nice, soft, off-white blouse. Keep the pumps low and in a light neutral like taupe or beige. Handbag AND briefcase/tote/portfolio absolutely must compliment. Can't get away with a good handbag and a funky, coming-out-of-nowhere totebag.
Much luck to you.

Buy that new suit!

About the shoes: you may may be standing in a lot of lines for a long, long time. Do NOT wear the cruel shoes, no matter how good they look.

Well, I went shopping. I wound up going to Target; I was surprised at how nice the clothes were there. I bought a khaki skirt and striped blouse to go with my black jacket. I felt good about my outfit.

I went to the job fair and... what was the name of that Lucas film I never watched - Attack of the Clones...

I swear I think I saw at least three women wearing the same blouse as I. The most popular outfit seemed to be the black pantsuit, then there were the black suits with skirts. At least I had the khaki skirt.

As for shoes, I found a nice pair of 'loafers' with a slight heel - very comfy.

I did see one woman wearing a pair of mid-calf boots with a 4-5 inch stilleto heel. Eek!

and........

......any prospects?

Let us know!