COLLOQUY

I have read all the debate entries so far, and have yet to see one which addresses the issue of gender-appropriate clothing. I bring this up because I am a female who has suits (as in male-tailored) and ties for private dress occasions; I also have extremely short hair. I am concerned about going on the job market next year; I will have to grow my hair longer and buy some "gender-appropriate" clothes in order to be considered for any position! My dress clothes are more than suitable for a male candidate... but I would certainly suffer by the different standard applied simply because I am a female. My clothes are not a statement about my ideologies, but about what I like and look darn good wearing! They are professional, well-cut, flattering... but not feminine. I see this theme in the entries from women professors, and even from Ms. Mentor's reference to never wearing pants to an interview. Is it really that important for prospective employers to know what my legs look like?

The suggestions from my mentors and colleagues have generally followed the same thread -- dress "appropriately" (e.g. more feminine, including longer hair) for the interview; then ease them into your regular look once you get the job.

By the way, I teach now and dress in slacks, tailored shirts, vests, etc.

-- anonymous (posted 2/20, 9:45 a.m., E.S.T.)

previous response

next response