You are aware that it is essential to make a positive first impression during a work interview, and that the choice of interview wardrobe plays an important role in this. However, dressing for work interviews is a lot more difficult than it used to be.
Let’s assume you’re going to an interview with a company where no one wears a suit – not even the CEO. Should you always dress professionally for the occasion, or would you stand out? And, if you do intend to go with a more relaxed look, how can you maintain a professional and polite demeanor?
Interview Attire
Begin by learning about the company’s dress code.
Follow the guidelines in our business dress guide below.
Choose clothing that makes you feel at ease and secure.
- Don’t overthink it and use your sound judgment.
- Avoid wearing something too provocative.
- Choose apparel that is appropriate for the climate and season.
- Examine the item for streaks, snags, pet hairs, and cracks.
- Make sure your clothes are wrinkle-free and pressed.
- When training for an interview, consider your interview wardrobe to be the icing on the cake — the finishing touch that ties all of your activities together.
When it comes to interview attire, use your best sense and without overthinking it. Choose clothing that make you feel relaxed and happy — nothing that you will have to tug or pull at or that would wrinkle quickly on the way to the interview.
- Avoid wearing one that is too provocative or that does not suit properly.
- Examine the item for streaks, snags, pet fur, and cracks. Make sure it’s safe and ready for your interview a few days ahead of time.
- Layout or hang up your wardrobe the night before the interview.
Match Your Outfit With the Workplace
Casual Workplace
Professional-looking casual career interview wear is fitting for more casual workplaces.
This may mean one of two things for women:
- a pair of dark jeans, a blouse, and a cardigan
- A knee-length skirt and a button-down shirt or blouse are required.
- Both options may be paired with flats or pumps, but open-toe shoes can be avoided.
This may mean one of two things for men:
- Dark slacks or trousers with a button-down shirt or polo
- Shoes with a closed toe that are neat and tidy.
Business casual workplace
You’ll need to dress up a little more for a business casual atmosphere.
This may mean one of two things for women:
- Wear trousers in black or navy or a pencil skirt in black or navy.
- Shirt with buttons and a cardigan or jacket
- It is fitting to wear flats or boots.
This may mean one of two things for men
- Wear slacks in black or navy with a collar, a button-down shirt, and a tie
- A blazer is not needed.
- Loafers or Oxfords
Wear a dark-colored suit to a formal office. A fitted dress with a matching jacket or suit trousers or skirt with a matching jacket may be worn by women. This includes suit trousers and a belt, as well as a button-down collar and tie for men.
