What to Wear to an Interview
Interviews are important opportunities to make a great first impression! When it comes to your outfit, there are some key points to keep in mind when deciding what to wear.
Choosing an outfit that is appropriate for the job and environment you’re interviewing for can be very challenging. It should be clean and neat, not overly flashy while still being professional enough to fit your surroundings as well as the company’s culture.
We understand that it can become really confusing what to wear for an interview or how to look your best which is why we have created this article for you.
There is a lot to discuss when choosing the right outfit for your job interview. Here is how to properly for an interview for both men and women.
Most Recommended Outfits for Job Interviews
For men, a suit with a dress shirt, tie, and dress shoes is the gold standard for interview attire. Make sure your suit fits properly so you look well-put together from shoulders to ankles.
For women, the same applies with pantsuits or skirt suits in neutral colors—just make sure it hits at least knee length so you look professional. Consider adding simple jewelry such as pearl studs or a small pendant necklace if appropriate.
Accessorize modestly with conservative scarves or ties that match and complement your outfit as opposed to bold statement pieces that may draw attention away from you during the interview process.
Professional Job Interview Dressing
For Men
When it comes to professional job interview dressing for men, a suit is always the go-to. A classic black, navy blue, or gray suit is best—these colors are timeless and professional. Finding a slim fit suit that fits properly on the shoulders and in the waist can be tricky, so get fitted by a tailor if possible. The fabric is also important.
Look for breathable materials like cotton or wool that won’t wrinkle easily. And don’t forget to pick out an appropriate dress shirt to pair with your suit. White and light blue are always reliable choices!
In terms of formal footwear, polished leather Oxfords are a great option as they look sophisticated yet comfortable enough to wear throughout an entire day of interviews or meetings. When accessories like ties and pocket squares come into play, keep it simple with muted colors that match the rest of your outfit.
Complete your look with a well-groomed hairstyle and subtle cologne so you come across as put together and prepared!
For Women
For professional job interview dressing for women, a tailored pantsuit or skirt suit in a neutral color is always a great choice. Look for fitted pieces that don’t wrinkle easily and hit at least knee-length so you look polished and professional.
Make sure to keep accessories modest with small stud earrings and subtle necklaces that won’t overpower the rest of your outfit. A simple scarf or tie can add an extra layer of sophistication if necessary.
When it comes to shoes, stick with heels that are comfortable enough to walk in all day yet stylish enough to make an impressive first impression. Avoid overly flashy colors or patterns—remember, the goal is to look professional! Lastly, finish off your look with subtle makeup and well-groomed hair so you come across as prepared and confident.
Non-Professional / Business Casual Interview Attire
For casual interview dressing for both men and women, the key is to go with comfortable yet stylish pieces that make you look put together.
For men, try a pair of dark-washed jeans with a collared shirt or jacket for a relaxed yet professional vibe. You can also opt for chinos or khakis in classic colors like navy blue, olive green, or gray. Finish off your outfit with leather loafers and minimal accessories so as not to overpower your look.
For women, an A-line dress in a muted color can work wonders. A blazer over the dress is also an option if you’re feeling extra confident! Complete the outfit with simple jewelry, classic pumps, and a structured bag that won’t draw too much attention away from the rest of your ensemble. Remember to maintain an overall polished appearance while staying true to your personal style—this will help you show who you are without going overboard on the clothing front!
Internship / College Job Interview Attire
For an internship or college job interview, aim for a look that is professional yet still relatable to your age group.
Men can try pairing khaki trousers with a collared shirt and a lightweight blazer. For shoes, choose loafers or leather dress shoes in black, brown, or navy blue. Wrap up the look by accessorizing with simple pieces like a tie bar or cufflinks.
Women should opt for tailored separates such as slacks and a blouse in muted colors like black, navy blue, or grey. Finish off the outfit with classic pumps and minimal accessories—think small earrings and an understated necklace. Avoid overly flashy hues and patterns so you come across as mature yet age-appropriate.
Remember to keep it simple—just enough to make you stand out from other candidates!
Job Interview Style Tips
Ace your job interview with these 6 essential dressing tips.
Style Tip 1:
Wear professional, yet age-appropriate clothing that is tailored and fits well – nothing too tight or revealing.
Style Tip 2:
Stick to neutral colors like navy blue, grey, black, and brown for a classic look.
Style Tip 3:
Avoid flashy hues and patterns such as bright prints and sequins as these are too distracting.
Style Tip 4:
Accessorize tastefully with simple pieces like a pocket square or tie bar. For women, opt for small earrings and an understated necklace or bracelet.
Style Tip 5:
Polish up your look with leather dress shoes in classic colors like black or brown.
Style Tip 6:
Don’t forget the basics: groom yourself before the interview so you look your best!
Choose the Right Accessories
When selecting accessories for a job interview, it pays to stick to classic basics like watches, ties, pocket squares, and cufflinks for men.
For women, opt for elegant pieces such as pearl earrings, small necklaces, bracelets, or brooches in silver or gold tones. Make sure the accessories are subtle and not overly flashy—they should complement rather than distract from your outfit.
Be mindful of the job type you’re applying for—for example, if it’s a more conservative line of work then avoid statement jewelry pieces or colorful scarves.
Style Your Hair
When styling your hair for a job interview, it’s important to take into account the job type you’re applying for. If it’s a more conservative line of work, opt for a neat, polished look such as slicked back or side-parted hair. Consider getting a professional trim prior to the day of the interview; this will ensure that your hairstyle is neat and tidy.
For more creative roles you can experiment with your hair such as adding volume or using accessories like headbands or clips. The aim should be to create an effortless yet polished look.
Best Job Interview Hair Styles for Men
When selecting a hairstyle for a job interview, it’s important to take into account the job type you’re applying for. Men should opt for a neat, polished look such as slicked-back or side-parted hair.
Consider getting a professional trim prior to the day of the interview; this will ensure that your hairstyle is neat and tidy. Spiked or gelled styles are not recommended as they can appear too casual for certain jobs. A classic barber cut can work in almost any situation and adds an air of sophistication to your look.
Best Job Interview Hair Styles for Women
When it comes to hair styling for a job interview, there are many options available for women. To project a professional and put-together look, try opting for a neat and polished style such as a low bun or smooth ponytail.
Make sure to get any stray hair tied back and keep accessories to a minimum. Avoid dramatic hairstyles such as curls or wild styles; they can be too distracting during the interview. Consider wearing your hair half up, and half down with some loose waves; this adds just enough of an edge without going overboard.
Wear Subtle Makeup
When it comes to makeup for a job interview, the key is to look polished and professional. Opt for neutral colors such as beige, brown, or natural hues. Avoid wearing bold colors which can be too distracting.
Make sure your makeup is applied lightly and looks natural; try using a BB cream or tinted moisturizer to give you an even skin tone. Always apply a thin layer of mascara and subtle lip color; this will help you look put together without being over the top.
If you wear foundation, make sure it matches your skin tone perfectly, and never cake it on!
Conclusion
Always remember that your first impression is your last impression. Your actions and your body languages speak louder than what is written on your resume.
An employer not only evaluates you as a professional but also a person as well. How you dress tell hiring managers many things about your personality and what to expect from you, therefore looking your best and dressing appropriately is the key if you want to ace your job interview.
FAQs
What are the 5 rules for dressing for an interview?
Here are five rules for dressing for an interview:
- Always dress professionally and opt for conservative pieces such as a blazer, skirt, or trousers.
- Avoid wearing clothing that is too revealing or distracting. Choose classic colors such as navy, black or gray when selecting your outfit.
- Make sure your clothes are clean and pressed; wrinkles can be a major distraction in an interview setting!
- Select shoes that are comfortable and appropriate for the job you’re applying for- if you’re interviewing in an office environment, stick to more professional styles like pumps or loafers.
- Accessorize wisely; only wear jewelry and accessories if they add to the overall professional look of your outfit.
What should you avoid wearing to an interview?
Avoid wearing clothing that is too revealing or distracting also make sure your clothes are clean and pressed because wrinkles can be a major distraction in an interview setting
What are 2 things you should wear to an interview?
When it comes to dressing for a job interview, two key pieces of clothing you should include are a blazer or suit jacket and tailored trousers or skirt. The blazer will help create a polished look while the trousers or skirt will add a professional touch.
What should females not wear to an interview?
Avoid wearing clothing that is too revealing or distracting also make sure your clothes are clean and pressed because wrinkles can be a major distraction in an interview setting
