"My bf is graduating college this year and is getting ready to start the interview process... he has no idea how to shop for interview attire and I don't really know where to start. How about a few suggestions for 'men's professional fashion' for the spring!"
When it comes to men's professional fashion you can't go wrong with a classy suit. However it's definitely important that it fits right, which is something the sales associates at wherever you choose to shop can help you with. The problem with soon-to-be college grads is that suits are expensive, and what college kid has the pocket change to drop a few hundred bucks on a nice suit? The good thing is, that he really only needs one! (At least for the interview process, we'll deal with his professional wardrobe once he's landed a job.) Also, department stores frequently have suits ON SALE! (THIS WEEKEND MACY'S IS HAVING A HUGE SALE 20-50% OFF SALE)
When looking for an interview suite for your boyfriend, I'd suggest sticking with a simple black or navy with or without a pinstripe. These colors are classic, timeless, and can be worn with lots of different shirt/tie combinations to change the look up. I personally prefer a suit with a subtle pinstripe, i feel it gives it a little fashionable touch.
Don't be afraid to mix patterns when it comes to choosing a shirt and tie. Now i wouldn't go crazy, stick to similar colors such as the blue striped shirt and blue paisley tie i show in the pictures above. It really depends on what the person wearing it feels comfortable in. If he wants to stick to solids, maybe suggest a a shirt with a little detail and a solid tie or vice versa. The men's spring runways are showing light sweaters under their suits, but I'd stick with the traditional interview suiting attire, as most corporations aren't always up to date with their runway fashion!
Things he might not think about are: dress socks, nice shoes, and a classy belt. When he sits down to start answering those interview questions his potential boss will think twice he glances down and sees your boyfriend's old gym socks peeking out. If he hasn't gotten a new pair of dress shoes since his high school graduation, its probably about that time. I suggest a black pair of shoes, if he decides to go with a brown suit go with brown, but i feel like black will be more logical. A dress belt makes the look. There are these amazing belts that are double sided and the buckle flips around so you can wear brown one day and black the next, two belts in one!
In regards to where to shop I'd look online first to get your bearings. Definitely look at the Macys sale, they have some good deals. Don't be afraid of Mens Warehouse, suits are all they do. I've noticed that the brand Alfani has some nice stuff for some great prices.
I hope this helps a little bit, good luck shopping!