After a long job search, you finally get an interview. Great, but while you're busy preparing for questions the interviewer might ask you, don't overlook one other important factor -- your outfit.

Your appearance is just as important to the interview process, if not more important than the actual answers you give.

Sue Morem, author of "How To Gain A Professional Edge," said if your outfit isn't professional, you've already failed the interview.

"Many interviewers develop an opinion of you around the time you walk into the door," Morem said.

Morem offers these tips:

• Look polished: "Looking good expresses how you feel about yourself. It's also a measure of respect toward the interviewer and the company," Morem said.
• Wear a suit to the interview: "It doesn't matter if you know the dress code is casual, the interview is not casual," said Morem. "Ensure you look your best by having your suit tailored to fit your body. If the sleeves are too long or the suit just doesn't fit well, it will look like you're not taking the interview seriously."
• Don't overlook your shoes: "Many interviewers always check out shoes. If you look great but you're wearing scruffy shoes, it shows a lack of attention to detail," Morem said. Take the time to clean and polish your shoes to make the right impression.

Interviewers notice details you could overlook. Be prepared. Bring a briefcase to the interview and leave your purse at home. Carrying multiple bags can cause you to look unorganized or sloppy.

"Another often-overlooked detail is the pen you use. It doesn't have to be a Mont Blanc, but make sure it's not a pen marked with hotel or gas station advertisements," Morem said. "Also, bring a notebook, not a yellow pad of paper."

Build Your Wardrobe On A Budget

Morem said shopping needs to be started before the job search begins, not the night before an interview. You could find a suit at a great price before you really need it, and if it's a classic, you can use it for a long time.

Search the sale racks at department stores and discount stores like T.J. Maxx and Marshalls. Discount stores often offer similar items to department stores at a much lower price, though sometimes the quality is lower. Many department stores also offer alteration services.

"Resale shops can be a great resource. Some people who spend more may get tired of their clothes," said Morem, which gives you a great opportunity to own an expensive, high-quality suit at a very low price.

"When you're shopping, talk to the store employees," said Morem. "They may be able to help you find great deals or let you know about upcoming sales.

Even if you think your work wardrobe is in good order now, you should still take a minute each day to consider the image you're portraying.

"Never underestimate what you wear each day," Morem said. "It is the loudest impact you make on your coworkers, especially those you don't connect with on a daily basis."

Dress Well After Getting Hired, Too

You got the job, and now you need to look at your work wardrobe. Just because you've made it through the first day doesn't mean you can start shlepping around in jeans and a T-shirt.

"Stay away from fads. Stick with classic pieces for your workplace." Sue said. "If you wear funky, trendy clothes to work, remember that your outfits form an impression of you. Some higher-ups in your company may not take you seriously if you dress overly trendy."

"Men should look for a good, basic, neutral suit in a dark color. A work wardrobe will typically consist of blazers, sport coats and suits with slacks, polos and button-down shirts," said Morem. "Also, take the time to make sure they aren't wrinkled." Ties are a good way to add a little personality without going overboard.

Women should look for neutral pieces as well. Skirt suits are often received well, but pantsuits are becoming more common. If wearing a skirt, wear hosiery. Many sweaters, knit tops and button-down shirts are just fine for a business casual environment, when paired with the right bottoms.

Morem offers some important tips for choosing staple wardrobe pieces:

• If your office is business casual, remember "business first, casual second" as a rule.
• Choose quality over quantity. A good quality suit beats three inexpensive suits.
• Unless you work in the fashion industry, err on the traditional side.
• Dress for the position you want to have, not the one you have.

Back To Basics

Whether you're choosing an interview outfit or business wardrobe staples, basics rule.

Choose suits, separates and the basics in neutral colors. "No one will know if you wear the same pair of basic black pants twice a week. Everyone will notice if you wear that pink paisley button-up or that wild sweater," Morem said.

Black, navy, beige, tan and other neutral colors work well as wardrobe staples. Darker colors are better at hiding stains, so if you spill a bit of coffee, you don't have to worry about rushing immediately to the cleaners.

What Not To Wear

Morem suggests keeping the following items out of your business wardrobe:

• Stiletto heels higher than 3"
• Low-cut tops
• Anything stretchy or made of lycra
• Camisoles: a bit can show from under a blazer, but no cleavage
• See-through fabrics -- make sure they aren't sheer
• Low-cut pants -- make sure your undergarments don't show
• Visible tattoos
• Skirts that are more than 2-3 inches above the knee
• Fishnet hose or bright tights

Accessorize

Morem also suggests wearing simple accessories in the work place.

• Wear no more than two earrings per ear
• Avoid all facial piercings
• Stick with smaller earrings even though large ones may be in style
• Keep rings from being distracting -- no more than one per hand
• Stay away from jewelry that jangles or makes noise
• When wearing makeup, less is more