Are cornrows appropriate for an Interview?

Recently I lost my job and I've been looking around for a new one. For my most recent interview, I had my friend cornrow my hair and put it into a bun. It's a very neat style. My mom told me cornrows are inappropriate for an interview and she was told some years ago by someone that the number one mistake African Americans make when going on interviews is wearing cornrows in their hair. I think this is ludicrous, but I want to see what other people think about this.

It really depends on how the cornrows are done. I personally wouldn't wear cornrows to an interview. I don't view them as professional. If you are going to an interview wear your hair in an puff.

I'm going to agree. Cornrows to an interview is risky. You have to hope and pray that they view them the same as you for if they don't- you'll be judged and dismissed before it even starts.

Here's a pic of how they look

[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

I am sorry but I wouldn't wear my hair like that to an interview. People still judge us even though we believe they shouldn't. It just isn't very professional and I am an professional. Even in an job setting I make sure that my hair always looks professional because of how I could be judged.

This is interesting, I wonder if theres a double standard for women because my husband wears his hair in cornrows and has never had a problem getting a job like that. But if he goes into work with a puff in the back of his ponytail, they are like so when are you getting your hair done? They consider that unprofessional.

This is interesting, I wonder if theres a double standard for women because my husband wears his hair in cornrows and has never had a problem getting a job like that. But if he goes into work with a puff in the back of his ponytail, they are like so when are you getting your hair done? They consider that unprofessional.

Personally I would not. Also depends on the type of job you are applying for too? I don't think they are professional enough for an interview. Just my two cents.

Cornrows is not appropriate for an interview, especially in this job market. I do think that if you un-braid it then it will be a cute braid out style. It is sometimes different for men, but that still is a toss up because there are a lot of times that I have people lose out on good jobs in the corporate world.

If the cornrows were simply straight back and put into a bun, I might be tempted to say it still looks professional but any type of designs should be avoided. Personally, I would forego cornrows altogether. I'm interviewing as well and I just wear it in a 'fro/twistout. But the type of job you are looking for will determine a lot. I'm in politics/women studies and it seems my 'fro is welcomed by most in my field.

@Janique Me personally, I wouldn't wear the cornrows! You want to be as clean cut as possible....not saying that the cornrows aren't, but in a professional environment, especially on an interview that is very risky! And if you're not sure how their work environment is, then assume the highest and go for a style that you know will be a winner! Maybe after you get the job, you can wear your cornrows...but I definitely wouldn't chance that in your interview! I understand exactly where you are coming from on this subject. I have an interview on Monday with a panel of 5 people (please pray for me yall that I get this job...super excited about it!) and I plan on either having a really nice, clean low bun, or either a twist out with half of it pinned up in the top. I've worn both of these styles on interviews before, as well as in the workplace and it was never a problem.

Good luck on your interview!

I think it all depends on the type of job your intervieewing for. If ur trying to work at Forever 21 or Taco Bell, then i'm sure they won't care. But if your looking for a job in a more professional environment like a bank or office, than cornrows are a no-go for the interview. I personally wouldn't wear conrnrows to the interview. Its sad to say but most people judge u by what u look like, first impressions are everything; so i would just try to look as clean cut as possible. Buns are the most safe option to me.

I have had interviews right after cornrowing my hair....I took them out. The last thing you want the interviewer focusing on is your hair. Just like the outfit and jewelry you wear - your hair shouldn't be too distracting. I personally think the design is too much for an interview. Do you do wigs? Maybe you can wear a simple one just so that you don't have to take them out.

Thanks for everyone's input...I guess my mom was right. I'm not applying at any fast food places so I see my cornrows might be an issue. I'm about to get a BS in psychology so I'm looking for a job that has something to do with this...I applied at a group home. I don't know how professional this setting would be considered but I guess I have to be more cautious about how I present myself.

Maybe straight back or with a slight curve, but I think the zig-zag design is a bit much. I'm interviewing right now also and I usually wear a bun.

Straight back, small and close together are interview appropriate. The ones you have not so much.

It makes me angry to think this natural hairstyle is not appropriate for the "corporate" world, but I know it's true that people in that arena are very judgmental about looks, i.e. hairstyles, attire, etc. It's a shame. I wonder if it will ever be acceptable.

Exactly my sentiments....I thought my mom was wrong but apparently from all the feedback I have been getting, she isn't.

I have to agree with your mom! Good luck on your interview!! [You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

I agree with your mom and the other curlies too.

Professional image has been on my mind quite a bit lately as I am testing the job market waters. I love being naturally and everything that goes along with it but the minute I walk into the my current workplace I feel out of place. I still rock the fro with confidence but I get tired of the "looks", makes me want to say to them "Don't worry about me; did you look at yourself before you left home this morning? " Looking like they in an 70's and 80's time warp...something straight out of a vintage MTV video. [You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]
Ok I feel better now that I got that off my chest! [You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

Lol NT.


I have a job interview today and I dyed my hair last night because I just did NOT feel together.

I agree with your mother and the rest of the curlys...I know that it is not about what you look like but what can you bring to the table for the job. BUT, we have to still be smart about somethings and know that the world does see things differently. I JUST finish talking to a co-worker of mine and she said that she has had job interviews where she gets the job with a fro. But Janique your hair looks very long in those pictures and i think with your glasses and your hair in a cute bun. Will be like sexy librarian.. lol j/k it will be professional and neat.

LOL thanks ktoliver...I'll have to go for that sexy librarian look next time [You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

Is there an interview thread? Cause I need some emotional support lol.

I see you've gotten tons of advice Janique, so all I'll say is good luck and keep it professional.

I also have an interview, which I am a bit nervous about and all I can think about is my hair since it is still in twa stage.