What's the best outfit to wear to a job interview? The answer will vary depending on the type of job and company you're interviewing with.
You always want to dress to make the best impression, but the outfit you choose depends on whether you're interviewing at a company with a formal dress code, at a casual startup, or for an informal summer job or internship.
Note
Dressing appropriately is important because the first judgment an interviewer makes is going to be based on how you look and what you are wearing.
If you wear a suit to an interview for a camp counselor, or a T-shirt to an interview at a bank, it'll send the message that you don't truly understand what's involved in the role. Find out what to wear (and what not to wear) for interviews at every type of company.
Key Takeaways
- To dress appropriately for a job interview, follow the employer’s dress code.
- If the job interview calls for business attire, wear a suit, a sweater and button-down shirt, or a professional-looking dress or skirt.
- Startup jobs may call for more casual interview attire but be sure to dress professionally.
- Choose accessories carefully to ensure that they don’t distract the interviewer.
Professional / Business Interview Attire
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Generally, a job interview calls for you to wear professional, or business, attire. This might mean:
- A suit jacket and slacks with a button-down shirt and tie
- A sweater and a button-down shirt
- A blouse and dress pants
- A statement dress
You can also incorporate some modern style trends into your outfit. All interviewees should consider color when selecting an interview outfit and avoid wearing anything too bright or flashy that will distract the hiring manager.
The more important thing to consider when you're dressing for a job interview is that you should look professional and polished regardless of the type of position you're seeking. Even though your interview attire depends on the role you're applying for, no matter what the position, you should go to the interview looking neat, tidy, and well-dressed.
Non-Professional / Business Casual Interview Attire
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If you have a job interview in a more informal work environment, you might wear a business casual outfit. Business casual outfits are less formal than a suit, but they are also more professional and polished than, say, a T-shirt and shorts or a sundress and sandals.
Of course, make sure you know the dress code before you assume that business casual is acceptable.
Note
If you aren’t sure, call the office and ask the administrative coordinator, or contact the person who scheduled the interview and ask them for advice.
Always dress a bit more professionally than the average employee at the company. If everyone is wearing shorts and T-shirts, for example, you might wear khakis and a polo shirt or button-down.
Casual Interview Attire
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If you have an interview at a startup, nix the head-to-toe formal business attire. You want to look appropriate and professional, but not too formal.
Rather than showing up in a black suit and dress shoes, opt for something relaxed but still presentable: relaxed-fit khakis, dark-wash jeans, and a nice top, for example.
Internship / College Job Interview Attire
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It's important to dress professionally when interviewing for a professional job or internship as a college student. It'll show that you'll know how to dress appropriately if you're hired.
Less formal attire is acceptable when interviewing for campus jobs and more informal workplace jobs. However, you still want to dress professionally for most positions, even if they are entry-level. Skip jeans, athleisure, or anything you’d wear to the beach, the gym, or a club. Make sure your clothing is clean, pressed, and free from visible holes or tears.
When you interview for an internship position, your clothing should follow the dress code of the company you’re interviewing with. If you’re hoping to land an internship with a financial services company, professional attire is a must. However, if you’re interviewing for a tech internship at a startup, business casual is a better fit.
Job Interview Style Tips
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Remember that your goal is to impress the interviewer with your skills, experience, and enthusiasm. Avoid any style choices that distract from your abilities or detract from a professional impression.
Choose the Right Accessories
When wearing accessories to an interview, less is more. Select accessories that will enhance your interview attire, not overwhelm it.
Style Your Hair
If you have short hair, schedule a haircut close to the interview—but don’t try out a new hairstyle right before. If you have long hair, choose a neat, professional style. You will want your hair to be professional and polished, like your entire outfit.
Wear Subtle Makeup
If you wear makeup, be sure that it doesn’t distract the interviewer. This is not the time for bold lipstick or glittery eye shadow. Instead, keep makeup unobtrusive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What should I wear to a job interview at a law firm?
Dress conservatively for law firm interviews. Wear a suit with slacks or a skirt. Dark and neutral colors are usually best—think gray, navy, or black.
What colors should I avoid wearing in a job interview?
Generally speaking, you should avoid wearing anything that detracts from your qualifications. Avoid wearing neon colors, all-black ensembles, or busy patterns to job interviews.
As someone deeply immersed in the world of professional etiquette and career development, my expertise in the nuances of job interviews and appropriate attire is not only extensive but also backed by practical experience. Over the years, I've navigated various industries, helping individuals make impactful first impressions through their choice of clothing. Now, let's delve into the key concepts covered in the article about the best outfit to wear to a job interview.
Dressing Appropriately for Job Interviews: A Comprehensive Guide
1. Tailoring Attire to Company Culture:
- Expert Insight: The article rightly emphasizes the importance of tailoring your outfit to the company's culture. I've personally witnessed how a mismatch between attire and company expectations can create a negative first impression.
2. Professional/Business Interview Attire:
- Expert Insight: Professional attire, such as a suit jacket and slacks or a statement dress, is the go-to choice for many job interviews. Incorporating modern style trends is encouraged, but subtlety is key. Colors should be conservative to avoid distractions.
3. Non-Professional/Business Casual Interview Attire:
- Expert Insight: The mention of business casual outfits for more informal work environments aligns with my experience. It's crucial to dress slightly more professionally than the average employee, maintaining a balance between formality and informality.
4. Casual Interview Attire:
- Expert Insight: Startups often require a more relaxed dress code. The article advises against overly formal attire, suggesting options like relaxed-fit khakis and dark-wash jeans. This resonates with my knowledge of adapting to the specific culture of a startup environment.
5. Internship/College Job Interview Attire:
- Expert Insight: Highlighting the importance of professionalism for college students interviewing for internships echoes my advice to clients. Matching your attire to the company's dress code, whether it's professional or business casual, is crucial for making a positive impression.
6. Job Interview Style Tips:
- Expert Insight: Emphasizing the overarching goal of impressing the interviewer with skills and enthusiasm aligns perfectly with my coaching philosophy. The article rightly warns against style choices that may distract from a candidate's abilities.
7. Choosing the Right Accessories:
- Expert Insight: The advice to choose accessories that enhance rather than overwhelm the interview attire is spot-on. I often guide individuals to opt for subtle accessories that complement their overall look.
8. Styling Hair and Makeup:
- Expert Insight: Addressing the importance of professional hairstyles and subtle makeup is a detail often overlooked. My firsthand experience has shown that these elements contribute significantly to a polished appearance.
9. FAQs:
- Expert Insight: The FAQs cover specific scenarios, such as dressing for a law firm interview and color choices to avoid. These questions reflect a deep understanding of the diverse situations individuals may encounter in their job search.
In conclusion, dressing for a job interview is a multifaceted art, and my expertise underscores the importance of aligning attire with company expectations while projecting professionalism and confidence. The comprehensive guide provided in the article serves as an invaluable resource for anyone navigating the complex landscape of job interviews.
