When NOT To Wear A Suit To An Interview (2024)

You've prepared a compelling resume.

Written a strong cover letter…

…and out of 1,000 applicants, you were selected.

Now it's time to prepare…which brings up a question.

How should you dress for the interview?

When NOT To Wear A Suit To An Interview (1)

An interview is an occasion for the sharpest outfit a man can wear.

A suit is a required and appropriate for most interviewsand business-related occasions.

But getting a job as a bulldozer driver in a construction company may not call for Hugo Boss.

Workplaces have changed a lot in the past couple of decades.

The startup and tech culture of Silicon Valley introduced a casual approach to dressing.

As a result, the suit is no longer the blanket interview uniform.

Some thought and preparation needs to be put into your dressing before meeting with a prospective employer.

What are the instances where you should consider leaving the suit in your wardrobe while attending a job interview?

#1 If The Suit Doesn't Fit You

If you are planning on wearing a suit to a job interview, it has to be of top quality.

Men holding the highest ranks in executive and sales positions still wear suits. But you can't just grab any suit and interview for these positions. If you're going to bother wearing a suit, it needs to fit you perfectly.

When NOT To Wear A Suit To An Interview (2)

A bad-fitting suit will leave a much worse impression than under-dressing by wearing a smart business casual outfit.

A custom-fitted suit will make you look and feel better. A sloppy fit on a suit is going to make you look like a rag doll begging for employment.

If your suit doesn't fit you right, do yourself a favor and don't wear it to an interview. It is better in this case to wear a fitted dress shirt, a tie and dress pants with formal shoes.

#2 The Interview Is With An Unorthodox Company

Some start-ups have unorthodox approaches to interviewing. You might find yourself invited to a game of paintball with the team to test your ability to cooperate with others under pressure.

A Silicon valley uniform of jeans, t-shirt and messenger bag is acceptable for an entrepreneur in those circles. Show up in a suit for a meeting with likely partners and you may alienate your chances of connecting with them.

First impressions count. But they also count towards whether people want to associate with you. An entrepreneur who is surrounded by people in smart casuals should imitate the intention of their style.

The difference is how you put your clothes together. It is possible to dress smart casual and still look like the best-dressed man in the room.

Check the fit of your jeans. Wear a smart shirt, with rolled up sleeves. Pick a pair of smart boots and smart sneakers. Carry a leather satchel.

Blend in but own your style to the point where you win the respect of your peers.

#3 The CEO Would Never Wear A Suit

It can feel awkward when you show up to an interview and you are dressed much smarter than the interviewer.

Or you are applying for a job that doesn’t require a suit. It’s a construction company where even the CEO wears outdoors clothing. Again, your first priority is to connect. Make a good impression. Don’t appear too stuffy and formal when the occasion doesn’t require it.

Steve Jobs wore turtlenecks, jeans, and sneakers. Mark Zuckerberg has a standard uniform of gray t-shirt and dark jeans. Satya Nadella often gives public presentations in a t-shirt. If the company CEO wears jeans, why would you go for a suit?

When NOT To Wear A Suit To An Interview (3)

It shows that you haven't done your researchabout the corporate culture and you may come across as stuffy and risk adverse.

How do you dress well enough to make an impression?Do your research about the workplace culture before your interview.

Find out what is appropriate to wear to the interview prior to your appointment. When in doubt, wear smart casual pants and a button down shirt with a sports jacket.You can throw on the jacket to formalize your attire and leave it off to be more casual

#4 The Company Culture Is Casual

Every organization has a culture. Think of it as the personality of the company.

What is the culture of the workplace you are interested in? Are you interviewing with a company where the employees wear suits every day or do they wear t-shirts and jeans?

If you show up wearing a suit and tie and all the employees are wearing shorts and flip-flops, you will look out of place, feel uncomfortable and may give off the wrong energy. The same is true of the opposite. If you show up wearing shorts and flip-flops to a company that wears professional attire, it could give the impression that you are not a good fit for the company.

The industry you are interviewing for should also be taken into consideration, as the dress code for an accounting firmis likely to be different to that of a construction company, for example.

Ask the recruiter or company contact person if you are expected to dress in formal clothes for the interview. Check if they would recommend a suitable dress code for your appointment. Remember that being the best-dressed version of you does not involve always wearing a suit and tie combination.

If you are interviewing at a construction site, a mine, or a landfill, you would not be required to adhere to a business dress code. A suit would be out of the question unless you want to be the butt of white-collar jokes.

What about online interviews? Is it right to wear a suit on a skype call with a potential employer? The answer requires research into the company's culture and expectations for the role you are applying for.

#5 When It’s Too Hot

When the weather doesn’t permit wearing a suit – switch to alternatives.

A smart and well-fitted trouser/shirt combination is a much cooler way to deal with the heat. How about a waistcoat with a knitted tie? You could opt for a seersucker or linen blazer if you still need to look sharp.

The last thing you want is to be sweating bullets by the time you arrive at the interview location. Maintain a cool facade by dressing in light, breathable fabrics.

Wearing what you're going to feel comfortable in and ensure that your clothes are neat and clean. It may feel strange wearing a button down shirt and shorts with loafers to an interview, but it wouldn't be out of place if you were meeting your company contact person at a beach restaurant to discuss your future employment.

While it is hard to say that a job application would be turned down just because a man showed up in a suit, chances are, you will lose a crucial moment of connection with the interviewer if you do not reflect the culture of the workplace where you are intending to work.

In most formal job interviews, you will always have a better chance if you're wearing a suit over wearing casual clothes. However, with the changes in corporate and workplace culture in modern society, wearing suits for interviews is no longer necessary. Consider this before dressing in your best suit for your next job interview.

Your appearance is the first thing people notice about you and it affects hiring decisions. The hiring manager needs to visualize you in the position they are trying to fill.

Remember, dress for the role you are trying to fill.

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When NOT To Wear A Suit To An Interview (2024)

FAQs

Is it OK to not wear a suit on an interview? ›

In many cases, wearing a suit isn't a necessity. However, it is always wise to do some research to learn about the company's workplace standards and use those as a guide. Just make sure to avoid dipping lower than business casual.

What should a man not wear to an interview? ›

Jeans, t-shirts, graphic or offensive language/prints, torn clothing, and smelly cologne are all huge interview outfit no-nos. Accessories should be very minimal — watches are an example of something acceptable. Shoes should look clean, shiny, and dressy.

What should you avoid wearing to an interview? ›

Stick with dress pants. Flip-flops or sneakers: Interview attire includes what you wear from head to toe. Leave the sneakers and flip-flops at home.
...
Avoid distractions such as:
  • Large, statement jewelry.
  • Too much makeup.
  • Exposed tattoos.
  • Body jewelry.
  • Clothes that are too tight.
  • Flashy patterns or colors.

What should be avoided while getting a new suit or a dress for the interview? ›

9 Things You Shouldn't Wear to a Job Interview
  • of 09. Bright, Flashy Colors. Getty Images. ...
  • of 09. A Blazer Doesn't Upgrade the Rest of Your Outfit. ...
  • of 09. Overly Casual Clothes. ...
  • of 09. Dated Fashions. ...
  • of 09. Heavy Perfume and Cologne. ...
  • of 09. Piles of Makeup. ...
  • of 09. Wacky or Novelty Ties. ...
  • of 09. Excessive Accessories.
Aug 26, 2021

What should a man wear to a 2022 interview? ›

Men should always have on a collared shirt. For a more executive look, an open-collared dress shirt with a suit jacket but no tie is a sharp way to present yourself. If you wear a tie, avoid any loud colored or wild print as they look bad onscreen.

Is it better to overdress or underdress for an interview? ›

If you will be wearing jeans every day to your job, dressing in a button down shirt and khakis (for men) or dress pants and a nice blouse (for women)would be appropriate for the interview. However, we always say it's better to overdress than underdress for an interview.

Is there such thing as overdressing for an interview? ›

Dress Basics

Overdressing for an interview is usually less of a concern than underdressing. You are more likely to turn off a hiring manager by dressing in a way that shows insincerity for the opportunity. It is important to consider the standard dress of a potential workplace, though.

What color should you not wear to an interview? ›

Yellow, green, orange and purple

Orange, in particular, is considered the most inappropriate color for an interview and can come across as overly confident and unprofessional.

Which is the thing that you should avoid in your first interview? ›

Ensure you don't go off on tangents or end abruptly without rounding out your answer back to what was asked. Also, avoid mumbling or speaking too fast. The interviewer shouldn't have to ask you to repeat an answer or strain to hear what you're saying.

What should I wear to an interview if I don't have a blazer? ›

If blazers or suits are common, then it's a good idea to wear one to the interview. But if not, there are lots of other options available that look just as professional.
...
  • Form-Fitting Sweater or Cardigan. ...
  • Matching Top and Skirt. ...
  • Boxy Jacket. ...
  • Back-Zip Tops. ...
  • Structured Dress.
Feb 24, 2014

Can I wear all black to an interview? ›

Wear: Black

“As a high-powered color, save it for high-powered interviews,” reports fashion brand Who What Wear. “Because black can come off as powerful and aloof, it's ideal for top jobs and managerial positions, but it's not great if you're applying for something in customer service, retail, or anything entry-level.”

What is the general rule of thumb for clothing attire for an interview? ›

A good rule of thumb is to dress as if you're applying for one position above the one in which you are interviewing. Clean, neutral slacks or pants, dress shirts, and jackets are safe and appropriate choices.

What not to wear to an interview 2022? ›

While you have some leeway in choosing your interview attire, there are some things to avoid: Heavy perfume or cologne. A lot of accessories. Wrinkled, torn, or ill-fitting garments.

Should I wear a mask to a job interview 2022? ›

It is absolutely fine to wear a mask to a job interview — whether it's because you're high risk, or live with people who are high-risk, or want to protect other people around you, or simply don't want to risk getting Covid or long Covid. It's not something you need to give an employer an advance heads-up about.

Should I go clean shaven to an interview? ›

If in doubt, it may be best to go clean shaven. You can always grow your beard back once you know your company's opinion, and there is no chance of it getting in your way in your interview.

Is it more professional to wear your hair up or down for an interview? ›

Keep it simple with a ponytail

Instead of wearing your hair down, wear a classy bun or ponytail, or twist your hair into a smooth, long braid to keep your hair away from your face. Classy buns, ponytails or a long braid can give a professional look to your style while keeping you comfortable.

Is it OK to wear jeans and a nice top to an interview? ›

For males, it is recommended to wear khakis or nice pair of jeans (darker wash, no holes and not faded) and a nice button down or polo to an interview. Moreover, women can still lean towards a nice pair of jeans and top but it is also recommended to wear slacks and a nice top or casual dress.

What should you do at the end of the interview? ›

Follow these steps to close an interview and position yourself for a job offer in the process.
  • Ask pointed questions about the job and the company. ...
  • Restate your interest in the position. ...
  • Summarize why you're the one for the job. ...
  • Find out next steps. ...
  • Send thank-you emails. ...
  • Hone your interviewing skills.

What are the top 3 interview mistakes? ›

Top 5 job interview mistakes
  • Being unprepared.
  • Dressing inappropriately.
  • Talking too much or not enough.
  • Criticising previous employers or colleagues.
  • Failing to ask questions.

What are 6 mistakes that can be made during an interview? ›

Avoid These Six Common Interview Mistakes
  • Bragging.
  • Answering but not asking.
  • Not knowing the company.
  • Not paying attention.
  • Making a bad first impression.
  • Trying to fake it.

Should I smile during a job interview? ›

Being confident can definitely get you way ahead of others competing for the same job position. And a smile is the best symbol of confidence. Not only does it create a good impression on the interviewer but it can also make you happy and feel positive during the interview.

What do you say at the beginning of an interview? ›

Start the interview with a polite greeting: “How are you today?” or “I'm pleased to meet you!” Thank the interviewer for meeting with you: “Thank you for taking the time to meet with me today.” Mention who you know at the company: “I was so excited when _____ told me this position was open!”

What are negative signs of a interview? ›

Signs interview went badly
  • The interview took less time than expected. ...
  • The interviewer was uninterested or distracted. ...
  • You faltered on a critical question. ...
  • There were fewer panellists than expected. ...
  • The interviewer shared too little information about the position. ...
  • The interviewer did little to sell the company.
Jul 26, 2021

Can you be too formal at an interview? ›

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.

Can you be co*cky in an interview? ›

Confidence is perfectly acceptable during an interview; however, if you display too much of it, the interviewer might think you're arrogant or that you believe you're the sole expert in your field.

Why should we hire you? ›

The first thing you should do when answering “why should we hire you?” is to highlight any skills and professional experience that are relevant to the position you're applying for. To make your answer all the more valid, make sure to always back up everything you say with examples, experiences, and achievements.

What shoes should you wear to an interview? ›

When deciding what professional shoes to wear to an interview, make sure your shoes are closed toe, the heel no higher than 3 inches, and in neutral colors. Flats are perfectly acceptable for an interview too. Leave the flip-flops, Eskimo boots, and Nike in the shoe cabinet.

What is the lucky color to wear in the job interview? ›

When picking colors to wear to an interview you should stick to neutral colors such as black, navy, or white. If you add a bright color to your outfit, try adding it to your accessories such as a tie, scarf, or jewelry.

What 3 questions should I ask interviewer? ›

Smart questions to ask about the interviewer

Has your role changed since you've been here? What did you do before this? Why did you come to this company? What's your favorite part about working here?

Should men shave before an interview? ›

Traditionally, shaving before a job interview would always have been recommended, as the clean-shaven look was seen as the smartest option. But times are changing, and it's now recognised that a beard or moustache can help you to express yourself, and in turn boost your confidence.

Should you tell your interviewer you are nervous? ›

It's okay to share with the interviewer that you are nervous. You might think it's one of the weaknesses that interviewers try to avoid when hiring, but it's a lot more normal for a person to be nervous at interviews than you might think. Saying it out loud can actually help.

Is it rude to wear a jacket to an interview? ›

Be sure they are polished – people notice. “Ladies have the option of pants suit or skirted suit, or a dress needs to very business professional looking. It's wiser to use a jacket and skirt or Blazer over a dress. Be sure whatever outfit you choose, you look great in.

Can I wear a cardigan instead of a blazer to an interview? ›

Dress pants, pencil skirts, knee-length dresses, blazers, neutral or light-colored blouses, sweaters, cardigans, tights, and suits are all acceptable forms of interview attire.

Do nails matter in an interview? ›

Avoid chipped or multicolored nails, she says, as well as artwork, gems, glitter and particularly dark or bright colors. Even if your navy manicure looks fabulous, your interviewer should be wondering where you'll fit on the org chart – not where you you get your nails done.

What questions do you ask at the end of an interview? ›

20 smart questions to ask at the end of your next job interview
  • What do you personally like most about working for this organisation? ...
  • What do you find most challenging about working for this organisation? ...
  • How would you describe your organisation's culture? ...
  • Can you tell me about the kind of supervision you provide?

Is it better to be overdressed or underdressed for an interview? ›

If you will be wearing jeans every day to your job, dressing in a button down shirt and khakis (for men) or dress pants and a nice blouse (for women)would be appropriate for the interview. However, we always say it's better to overdress than underdress for an interview.

Is it overkill to wear a suit to an interview? ›

In most formal job interviews, you will always have a better chance if you're wearing a suit over wearing casual clothes. However, with the changes in corporate and workplace culture in modern society, wearing suits for interviews is no longer necessary.

What 3 things should you consider when dressing for an interview? ›

6 Tips to Dressing for a Job Interview
  • Research the company's culture and dress code. What outfits are considered appropriate for an interview often varies by industry. ...
  • Invest in a “power outfit” ...
  • Wear appropriate and comfortable shoes. ...
  • Try out your interview outfit. ...
  • Don't over-accessorize. ...
  • Groom yourself.

Why is wearing a suit in interview important? ›

Respect. Dressing in the right attire for an interview shows that you're serious about the job, respectful of the interviewer's time, and are genuinely interested in the position. It also demonstrates an understanding of the corporate culture, and showcases you as someone who would fit easily into the workplace dynamic ...

Is it okay not to wear a blazer to an interview? ›

It's rare to go to an interview without even a jacket. When you do, it's usually for a job where there is no dress code, or only a very loose one, and typically a job where the interview process itself is fairly relaxed as well.

Can you be too casual in an interview? ›

Mistake #5: Being too casual, both in dress and attitude.

Impressions are everything, and if your dress or attitude is too casual it will leave a negative impression. Dress for the job you want, and dress appropriately for the industry. By the same token, don't overdress. You want to look like you already belong there.

Should I wear a suit to a zoom interview? ›

Suits and pantsuits might be more common, but often without suit jackets, ties, or luxury accessories. If you're interviewing for a more traditional company, this might be the dress code to follow.

How much does a person's dress style impact the first impression in an interview? ›

The way you dress defines the person you are and what value you bring to the table. In the corporate world, you are judged by the way you look and dress up for work. So, it's time to follow the old advice – Dress for the job you want, not the job you have.

Can you be overdressed to an interview? ›

While overdressing for an interview may amuse the interviewer, it's much better than underdressing. If you decide to wear a tie, the hiring manager may still respect your effort to be professional. In contrast, not wearing a tie when the hiring manager expects one can make you appear unprofessional.

Can you mess up a job interview? ›

Everyone wants to make the best impression when they are interviewing for a job, but it can be easy to mess up. In some cases, what you've done won't be critical and you'll get a pass. After all, employers expect applicants to get nervous and a case of the job interview jitters shouldn't cost you a job offer.

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