Suited & Booted Charity

Public agencies refer vulnerable, unemployed and low-income men to us, and we help them get into employment by providing suitable interview clothing donated by companies and professionals. We also offer our clients interview advice and mentoring. In our first year, we helped about 800 men for their job interview by providing them with a suit, shirt and tie, and accessories.

There is a huge demand for our services, and now in our fifth year, we expect to help at least 1300 clients. At Suited & Booted, we recognise that wearing a great suit or smart clothing can be an empowering, transformative experience, giving the wearer the self-esteem and confidence necessary to succeed at job interview and into employment. Stepping into a new suit or outfit not only changes the way others see you, but also changes the way you see yourself. When you feel and look your best, you exude confidence and ability.

Psychologist Dr Mair says: ‘Being well dressed can improve our self-confidence and what we wear affects how we are perceived by others. Therefore, wearing appropriate clothes, for example, a formal suit for an interview, builds our confidence and can make us appear more serious, conscientious and respectful.’ Dr Carolyn Mair, CPsychol, CSci, FHEA, AFBPsS, London College of Fashion, University of the Arts London.