Among the changes that will come as you transition from student to working man or woman, it will be time to trade in the sweats, jeans and sneakers for something a little more polished — at least for the interview.

Typically the starting point of a career, the interview is an opportunity to show strengths to potential employers. The process becomes easier if an unkempt mess of an outfit doesn’t serve as a distraction.

The biggest mistake student applicants often make when dressing for an interview is taking it too casual — T-shirts, jeans, hooded sweatshirts and running shorts are not appropriate attire.

A suit isn’t always necessary, though. Attire should be appropriate for the workplace. An employer should be able to see a potential employee fitting in easily with the surroundings.

The very basics of interview attire noted thus far apply to all, but there are some gender specifics that men and women should keep in mind as well.

MEN

Hair

Looking clean and polished begins with hair.

Hair should be neat and minimal product should be used. Too much styling gel can make it look greasy.

If you plan on getting a haircut, do so about a week before the interview so you’ll have a chance to practice with the new look.

Look to the men in the potential place of employment to see what is acceptable in terms of facial hair and length of hair.

Accessories

Men don’t have as much room to play with accessories as women do, but they still have a chance to add some personalization.

When choosing a tie, select one that shows a unique sense of style. Choose a favorite color or a smart pattern.

One fashion faux pas no man has any excuse for committing is wearing a novelty tie to an interview. They are not appropriate. If a predetermined goal is to highlight a good sense of humor, do so with wit and quickness when responding to questions — not with a dancing Santa tie.

For jewelry, look at other employees to see what is acceptable. In some offices, jewelry other than a wedding ring or watch is not suitable. If it is allowed, it should never be characterized as “bling.”

Jackets and Shirts

First and foremost, pants, jackets and shirts should always be wrinkle-free.

Proper fit is just as important for men wanting to look clean and polished as it is for women. If a jacket or shirt is too loose or too tight or if the length is wrong, it looks messy.

There are several factors to consider when choosing a properly fitting shirt or jacket, such as breadth of the chest, shoulder width and arm length. Measurements can vary widely from person to person, so it is best to be fitted professionally in order to know which sizes fit best.

Pants

Fit of pants is also essential. Don’t be afraid to purchase a pair that is a little tighter than usual. They should fit and feel differently than a pair of jeans.

The two main components for pant fit are the length and the waist. Lengthwise, a pant should end right at the top of the heel of a dress shoe.

The waist shouldn’t be too big. In other words, dress pants shouldn’t be falling down.

Shoes and Socks

The biggest fashion mistake among men is often their shoes.

In business situations, dress shoes — not athletic shoes ­— should always be worn. Also, a good polish on your shoes will make a big difference.

WOMEN

Hair and makeup

Hairstyles should not resemble what you wore to the gym this morning or to the club last weekend. Hair should flatter personal style, yet still be acceptable for the workplace.

For an interview, keep your hair out of your eyes. Nothing is more distracting than constantly fiddling with hair.

Makeup should remain minimal. Save a smoky eye for the holiday party.

Accessories

This is an opportunity to put a little extra effort into an outfit, and it allows for personality to show through.

A simple locket necklace or charm bracelet can look classy and start a conversation about its sentimental value. Oversized hoop earrings or anything with glitter, however, could scream “trashy ‘90s girl.”

Keeping a balance with accessories is the key to maintaining a clean look. For example, don’t wear a chunky necklace and big earrings — choose one or the other.

Also, remember that less is really more — especially during an interview. As CoCo Chanel once said, “Take one thing off before you leave the house.”

Women have a variety of accessory choices. Use that advantage to have fun — but, as with everything, keep it work appropriate.

Jackets and tops

Choosing the formality of a top or the necessity of a jacket depends on the specific workplace. Taste, however, should be considered for all work environments.

Most importantly, a potential employer should never see cleavage.

Proper fit is also important. Jackets should be able to button without pulling. Tops should not be too tight or too loose.

Clothes that don’t fit well make a person look sloppy, a characteristic most employers are not searching for.

Pants and Skirts

Again, fit and appropriateness are imperative. void the dreaded “muffin top” by choosing bottoms that fit your waist.

With pants, length is many of women go wrong. Pants should just barely skim the floor. Anything shorter makes legs look stumpy, and anything longer makes the outfit look overwhelming.

Skirts shouldn’t be short. If a skirt is even the slightest bit too mini, throw on a pair of tights (without runs) or change.

Shoes

Athletic shoes should never be worn to an interview — no exceptions. Put on a pair of heels, flats or boots, preferably a clean pair.

A quick tip: Remove chipped nail polish. Even if nails aren’t repainted, no nail polish will look cleaner than chipped polish.