Video: The interview suit making a comeback

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SEATTLE - Over the last decade, some believe corporate fashion has pulled away from that polished look, but the economy could be pushing a new fashion trend.

Despite a dip in retail clothing sales overall, suit sales - particularly interview type suits - seem to be an exception. With the unemployment rate at a 16 year high, it seems more people are looking to dress to impress.

Compared with other big cities, Seattle isn't exactly known as a dress-up town, but these days, it could be starting to snap back.

"It seems like the pendulum is swinging back again to wearing more of a professional look," said Roy Boholst, manager at Joseph A. Bank, a men's clothing store in Seattle.

Fashion experts are noticing a national trend that's likely economy-caused, as more people look for jobs. Seattle's Joseph A. Bank has been getting a lot of customers on a quest for the classic interview suit.

"One of the major banks that has just been taken over by another major company - you know which one I'm talking about - a lot of them have lost their positions," said Boholst.

So they're looking for new jobs and a new suit to make the perfect first impression.

"You can't go wrong with a navy blue or charcoal suit," Boholst said.

For an interview, you want style without too much flash.

"The first interview? We recommend a white shirt," he advised.

And the tie?

"Just give it a little splash of color, so you don't come across as being dull and drab," he added.

As for women, despite the controversy surrounding her campaign clothes, many fashion experts believe Sarah Palin was spot on with her sensible suits. They suggest emulating her look on a budget.

Of course a lot of people don't have the money to buy a lot of power clothes right now. At Joseph A. Bank, they've noticed some customers who used to buy a few suits at a time are just spending money for one good suit.