Getting Polished for Canadian Interviews
How to Update Your Style on a Budget as a Female Immigrant to Land a Job in Canada/ North America
Christi in Canada
7/29/20245 min read
Adapting to a new culture can be both exciting and challenging, especially when it comes to fitting in and making a good first impression. For female immigrants in North America and Canada, aligning your style with local trends can enhance your confidence and improve your job prospects. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news. But you have to look the part. The good news is, you don’t need a hefty budget to look fashionable and professional. Here are some practical tips to help you achieve a stylish appearance without breaking the bank.
Scout Your Employer's Linkedin
I kid you not, go and find out what your colleagues look like and what their vibe is. You can see what their look is on Linkedin or the company's website. Subconsciously you want to communicate - "I fit into your tribe". And no matter what anyone says, at the end of the day we all wear our own types of uniforms.
True story, I once saw someone get fired for being "too casual" with their presence. AKA, they would not change their style to be professional enough for the job and it drove my manager up the wall. And yes, she would compliment me when I put effort into my outfits. And no, it was not a retail job either.
DIY Gel Nails
I am gonna be honest, I used to like the colourful nail trends but think "Who is crazy enough to actually pay $60 on the regular for a manicure?" Then my friend introduced me to DIY kits on Amazon. And girl, it changed my life. For $100 I had dozens of manicures (and nobody could tell that they were not professional!)
So, well-groomed nails can make a significant difference in your overall look.
Available on Amazon and other online retailers, these kits include everything you need for salon-quality nails at home. Look for highly-rated kits that come with LED lamps, gel polish, and essential tools. Watching YouTube tutorials can help you master the technique, ensuring your nails look polished and professional for job interviews and daily wear. Here are the items I use (with affiliate links that cost you nothing extra, but support the blog):
UV Lamp (to set the gel nails:
UV Gloves to protect your hands from the UV lamp.
Electric Drill Nail (to remove the nail polish)
Smart Shopping: Black Friday and Thrifting
Updating your wardrobe is essential, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. Black Friday sales offer a great opportunity to purchase new clothes at a fraction of the cost. Make a list of essential items such as blouses, blazers, trousers, and comfortable yet stylish shoes. Keep an eye on deals from major retailers and set a budget to avoid overspending.
Top Canadian Retailers to Consider:
Ricki's (Women's fashion in their early career)
RW and Co (Women's business fashion)
Gap (More casual, but some great basics)
Thrifting is another excellent way to find unique and affordable clothing. Thrift stores and consignment shops often have a wide range of high-quality, gently-used items. Look for classic pieces that can be mixed and matched to create various outfits. Not only is thrifting budget-friendly, but it’s also a sustainable choice, reducing your fashion footprint.
Affordable Hair Care
A fresh hairstyle can boost your confidence and help you make a great impression. Professional salon visits can be pricey, but you can get your hair done affordably at a student cosmetology school. And honestly, I have done both and can often not tell the difference These schools offer services at reduced prices as students gain hands-on experience under the supervision of licensed instructors. Whether you need a haircut, color, or styling, you can enjoy quality services without the salon price tag. Mind you, you may end up spending a lot of extra time in the chair. So budget your time accordingly.
Invest in Key Accessories
Accessories can elevate even the simplest outfits. Invest in a few key pieces such as a versatile handbag, a statement necklace, and a classic watch. These items can add a touch of sophistication and completeness to your look. Check out clearance sections in stores or look for deals online to find affordable options.
Learn Basic Makeup Skills
A little makeup can go a long way in enhancing your appearance. Learning basic makeup skills doesn’t require a professional course. There are countless tutorials available online that can teach you how to apply makeup for a polished, professional look. Start with essential products like foundation, mascara, a neutral eyeshadow palette, and a lipstick that complements your skin tone. Drugstore brands offer high-quality products at a fraction of the cost of high-end brands.
Honestly, my top products are:
True story, this foundation suits my skin tone better than the pricy department store's version that costs three times the amount. And I didn't have to go in store, I just submitted a picture on their site and it colour matched me to perfection!
Confidence is Key
No matter what you wear, confidence is your best accessory. Feeling good about yourself will reflect in how you carry yourself. Practice good posture, maintain eye contact, and smile. Confidence not only makes you more approachable but also leaves a lasting positive impression.
Building a Professional Wardrobe Capsule
Creating a capsule wardrobe can simplify getting dressed and ensure you always look put together. Focus on purchasing versatile, timeless pieces that can be mixed and matched. Essential items might include:
A blazer (oversized is more the current look thanks to gen Z)
A white button-down shirt
Black trousers
Jeans (that are not skinny)
Comfortable yet stylish flats
These pieces can be combined in various ways to create multiple outfits suitable for different occasions.
But again, more importantly DO YOUR TRIBALE RESEARCH! If the above mentioned items don't match what the people in your team are wearing, don't do that. Instead find out what they are wearing and find a version of that which works for you.
Final Thoughts
Adapting your style to fit North American and Canadian norms doesn’t have to be expensive. By utilizing DIY solutions, taking advantage of sales, and exploring thrift stores, you can create a fashionable and professional look on a budget. Remember, the goal is to feel confident and comfortable in your appearance, as this will positively impact your job search and integration into your new environment. With a bit of creativity and smart shopping, you can look and feel your best without overspending.
