When it comes to landing that first internship or job after graduation, first impressions can make a world of difference. Employers are not only evaluating qualifications but also assessing whether a candidate will be a good cultural fit and bring something unique to the table. What you wear can say a lot about the kind of person you are before you even speak—and help you create a memorable first impression.

While students may not have the most extensive professional wardrobes, the right accessories can elevate even the most basic outfits and set you apart from the competition. Adding a touch of personalization can help communicate your passions and accomplishments in a subtle, yet memorable way. 

From customized clothing patches to monogrammed cufflinks or a personalized tie bar, simple touches can elevate your look and show that you take pride in both your appearance and individuality, while showcasing your personality and unique style. These seemingly small decisions can make a big difference, helping you be remembered not just as another candidate, but as someone who is polished, thoughtful, and passionate—and as someone who can bring a fresh perspective to the role.

TIPS FOR STANDING OUT

Even a student can stand out in an interview like a seasoned pro. That’s why we’ve put together a comprehensive list on how to use personalized accessories to help you make a memorable impression and ace your first interview. The more the accessories tell your personal journey and create a visual story, the more likely you are to stand out from other candidates and show that you would be a good cultural fit. Follow the tips below to create a memorable style and give yourself the confidence to succeed. 

PERSONALIZED ACCESSORIES

Wear a suit pin to improve formal look, and choose a unique charm for your briefcase to express your style and help you make a lasting first impression. Remember, hiring managers are not only evaluating you based on your resume and qualifications. Your appearance, personality, and experiences help present a full picture for the hiring manager and give your resume more context. Personalized accessories are a simple, yet sophisticated way to elevate your appearance and showcase your individuality and experiences. 

VOLUNTEER WORK

 
If you’re passionate about volunteering, custom-made accessories are a stylish way to showcase your passion and commitment to civic duty. If you’re applying to a field that gives back to communities or is related to your volunteer work, showcasing volunteer experiences will help differentiate yourself from other candidates and show hiring managers that you’re someone who loves to give back.  

• Try adding a pin to your suit lapel that subtly signifies your volunteer work. From medical symbols that commemorate volunteer work at a hospital to a logo of a youth group you volunteered for, you can create unique pins that make a profound statement. 

• Highlight your volunteer work with personalized accents and add visual interest to your work bag. If you volunteered for park services, a nature-themed patch can be a great conversation starter. 

• Add polish to your look and turn your tie into a conversation starter with a custom-made tie bar that highlights your commitment to civic duty. 

HOBBIES AND PASSIONS

Accessories are a sophisticated way to showcase your hobbies and passions without overpowering your look. Subtly incorporating what makes you unique can give hiring managers a clearer picture of the kind of person you are and whether or not you’d be a good culture fit. 

• Try placing a personalized accessory on your suit jacket of one of your favorite passions or hobbies. With a little online research, you can see if you and an interviewer have something in common. For example, if you both love cycling, a customized pin of a racing bike or helmet is a unique way to spark a conversation during the interview and make a lasting impression. 

• Accessorize your messenger bag or laptop bag with accents that speak to your favorite hobbies, such as a guitar if you’re musically inclined, or a simple golf club if you love to play. 

• If you’re passionate about travel, accessories that highlight your travels and experiences can show hiring managers that you’re cultured and have a broadened perspective. Try an airport code on a tie-bar, or adorn your blazer with a simple national flag of your favorite country to visit.

CULTURE AND HERITAGE

 
Companies will often ask candidates about their heritage when filling out job applications. With the right accessories, you can lean into this and proudly represent your culture and heritage, and differentiate yourself from the competition. Whether it’s creating one-of-a-kind accessories that highlight your heritage or designing enamel pins that celebrate what makes your culture unique, you can let your true colors shine and stand out from the competition. 

• Show off your heritage by adorning your suit’s breast pocket or lapel with an elegant accessory that features your family crest or a national landmark. 

• Make your laptop bag stand out by creating a visual story of your culture using embroidered accents. Try incorporating traditional patterns, national delicacies, or cultural landmarks. 

• Dress up your dress shirt with cufflinks that feature a religious emblem if your faith is important to you. Little touches like that can show that you’re a well-rounded candidate. 

MAKE A LASTING IMPRESSION

Standing out in an interview isn’t just about having the right qualifications—it’s about leaving a lasting impression that makes you memorable long after the conversation ends. In a competitive job market, employers often meet with multiple candidates who have similar experience or skillsets. Personalizing your look with thoughtful accessories shows that you pay attention to detail, take pride in your presentation, and aren’t afraid to express your individuality. It's a subtle yet powerful way to communicate confidence, creativity, and authenticity—all traits that can help tip the scales in your favor.

If you’re wanting to make your own accessories, THE/STUDIO has the craftsmanship and inventory to help you stand out in your next interview. More than a custom patch store, THE/STUDIO has the accessories you need to elevate your style. Shop custom pins, made-to-order cufflinks and more—and make an unforgettable first impression.