Because of the large amount of students graduating and seeking employment, it is important to dress competitively for job interviews, a Penn State career counselor says.

Acting and dressing as professionally as possible is the best way to go, said Bob Orndorff, associate director for career counseling in the MBNA Career Services Center.

"The interview is a chance for you to make a good impression. Dressing professionally shows recruiters that you respect the company and are serious about getting the job," Orndorff said. "Not only does it allow you to put your best face forward, you feel more confident and serious-minded when you are dressed properly for the occasion."

Brian Cohen, owner of Jack Harper's Young Men's Shop, 114 W College Ave., recommends men buy a dark suit with pleated trousers.

"The key is to be as simple and professional as possible," Cohen said. "A suit, a white point-collar dress shirt and a clean tie pulls the look off well."

Although there are many styles, colors and fabrics to choose from, Cohen said a dark two button suit in 100 percent worsted wool is suitable for most men. There are two main options for women when purchasing a suit: a skirt or a pantsuit. "The skirt suit has been the traditional norm, while pantsuits are almost just as accepted now in the workforce," Orndorff said.

But if he had to pick the safer alternative, he would stick with a skirt suit.

"It is almost better to be more formal than not formal enough," he said.

Erin McGrail (senior-political science), an employee at Gia & Co., 114 S. Allen St., said you can't go wrong with black. "What you wear also depends on the industry you're looking at," she said. "For an art major, you might have a bit more leeway in what you can wear, whereas if you're in the business field, the more professional, the better."

Bob Steinbach, owner of Connections, 130 S. Allen St., said conservative is key. Being conservative means no flashy accessories, like big hoop earrings, obnoxious ties or too much makeup, he added. For those who don't want to break the bank, Cohen has a few suggestions for how men can establish a basic professional wardrobe. A few simple items to own include a navy blazer, two or three pairs of wool dress trousers, dress shirts and a few matching ties. For women, McGrail said a blouse with dress pants and pumps are a clean and versatile look.

The best time to shop for a suit is before the seasonal rush just before career fairs and on-campus interviews. Suits and professional wear can be purchased at department stores, specialty shops, online and other locations. They run from about $150 to $4,000 depending on material, brand and style.