Parent interviews and school visits are common subjects in kindergarten and elementary school entrance exams. Early preparation is essential regarding clothing and belongings to avoid last-minute panic. This article, based on advice from the kindergarten and elementary school entrance exam prep school "Rieikai," will introduce key points regarding fathers' attire and grooming for entrance exams, item by item. Let's start preparing now with the correct knowledge so you can face the day with confidence.

Let's learn the basics: clothing and grooming

The key to dressing appropriately is to show respect.

 

First and foremost, the most important thing regarding a father's attire is to dress in a way that shows respect for the school his child is applying to. A respectful attire means not being overly individualistic, giving an impression of sincerity and composure. Since the overall impression of the family is crucial in the interview, it's important to dress in a way that conveys you've prepared thoroughly, just like your child and mother.

Now, let's go over the key points for each item.

1. Suit

◾️Color and pattern
Dark navy is the most common color, and a plain dark suit is the standard. Woven patterns and thin pinstripes are acceptable as long as they are not too flashy, but avoid anything that is too shiny or has a flashy, unique pattern. Designs that are too obviously branded, and black suits, are also unacceptable as they can look like they're being reused for weddings and funerals. Choosing a high-quality wool material will further enhance the elegance of the suit.

◾️Jacket and Pants
For jackets, a single-button closure is standard, and choose a style with center or side vents (slits at the back of the hem) that suits your body type. Both single and double cuffs are acceptable for trousers, but single cuffs are recommended. Avoid trousers that are so short that bare skin is visible above your socks when you sit down.

◾️Notes
Suits with frayed hems or those that don't fit properly give the impression that you're just wearing whatever you had on hand, so choose a suit that fits well and be sure to check for any fraying or other damage before wearing it. Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building also offers an online ordering service.

View the list of "Recommended Suits for School Entrance Exams" at the Mitsukoshi Isetan Online Store.


View the " ISETAN MEN'S Custom Suits" page on the Mitsukoshi Isetan Online Store.

2. Shirt

For shirts, a plain white regular collar with a narrow opening is the standard. Button-down shirts are considered too casual and are therefore not recommended.

View the list of "recommended shirts for entrance exams" at the Mitsukoshi Isetan online store.

3. Necktie

While the color of a tie doesn't matter as long as it's not flashy or attention-grabbing, a solid navy blue tie is generally preferred, and if you choose a tie, opt for a subtle design such as a small pattern or woven design.

View "Recommended ties for entrance exams" at the Mitsukoshi Isetan online store.

4. Shoes

The basic rule is black leather shoes. Avoid overly casual shoes, slip-on loafers without laces, or highly designed shoes that don't match a suit. Here, we recommend choosing a formal straight-tip oxford. It's also a good idea to choose shoes that don't make excessive noise when entering or leaving a room.

View the list of "Recommended Shoes for Entrance Exams" at the Mitsukoshi Isetan Online Store.

5. Socks

Plain, light-colored business socks in black or dark blue are the norm; thick, casual socks or short socks are not acceptable. Choose a length that covers your bare skin when sitting. Knee-length long socks reduce the surface area of direct contact between your pants and skin, thus reducing friction and wear on the fabric.

View "Recommended socks for entrance exams" at the Mitsukoshi Isetan online store.

6. Slippers

◾️Recommended


Choose a subdued color like navy blue. A high heel is recommended as it will make less noise when you walk. It will stand out if your mother and father wear different slippers, so coordinating the color and material will create a more balanced look.

7. Clock

◾️Recommended


When choosing a watch, opt for something simple and avoid anything too flashy. Casual sports watches, watches with obvious branding, and overly ornate designs are all unsuitable.

View the "Watch Brand List" at MITSUKOSHI ISETAN LUXURY

8. Hairstyle

The key is cleanliness and a fresh look. Regardless of length, an unkempt hairstyle is considered rude, so styling is essential. Choose a styling product that suits you, from a soft hair cream to a wax. Also, if your job doesn't pose a problem, it's preferable to be clean-shaven.

View the "Hair Styling" list at the Mitsukoshi Isetan Online Store.

Important storage and care instructions to avoid panicking on the day of the event.

When the entrance exam season begins, you may find yourself wearing your suit for a long period of time, from school visits and photo shoots to interviews. At times like these, it's important to take good care of your suit and shoes and store them properly so you don't panic when you need to wear them again and find them wrinkled or moldy. Here, we'll introduce some basic care and storage methods.

Suit care

If you have any problems, feel free to consult a specialist.

If you know what you need and want to buy everything but are unsure where to buy it, please consult the category specialists at Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building . We will suggest items tailored to your needs, from standard items to high-quality, carefully selected pieces.

Click here for a complete list of all service reservations at Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building