When preparing for an interview, think of selecting your interview attire as the icing on the cake — that final detail that pulls all your efforts together.
Dressing to impress or power dressing is the usual go-to when it comes to dressing for an interview. Interviews, after all, afford you the opportunity to make a brilliant first impression. Thus, like when meeting anyone for the first time, looking your best becomes a priority.
But what exactly does looking your best mean within the business domain? Certainly not the usual chic get-up you would throw together when stepping out for some social engagement or party. And even though the dress code does depend on the type of company and its culture, the main aim should be to look professional and respectful.
So basically, when considering how to dress for an interview, use your best judgment and don’t overthink it. You should choose clothes that make you feel comfortable and confident — nothing that you’d have to tug or pull at or something that would wrinkle easily on your commute to the interview.
Matching your outfit to the workplace
Because you’ve already researched the company, you should have a sense of the workplace and what level of formality is appropriate. Look at photos on their social media sites to get a sense of what people wear at the office.
1. Casual workplace
For more casual workplaces, professional-looking casual job interview attire is appropriate. For women, this could mean:
• Dress pants, a blouse and a cardigan
• A knee-length skirt and button-down shirt or blouse
• Both options can be worn with flats or heels; avoid open-toe shoes
For men, this could mean:
• Dress pants or slacks and a button-down shirt or polo
• Any closed-toe shoes that are neat and clean.
2. Business casual workplace
For a casual business environment, you’ll need to dress up a bit more. For women, this could mean:
• Black or navy dress pants or pencil skirt
• A button-down shirt and cardigan or jacket
• Flats or heels are appropriate
For men, this could mean:
• Black or navy dress slacks with a belt, button-down shirt and tie
• A blazer is optional
• Oxfords or loafers
3. Formal workplace
For a formal workplace, wear a dark-coloured suit. For women, this can be a tailored dress with a matching jacket or suit pants or a skirt with a matching jacket. For men, this means suit pants and a jacket with a button-down shirt and tie.
What not to wear to an interview
Finally, let’s review what you should not wear to an interview, regardless of how formal or informal the workplace is. Your goal in a job interview is to make a good first impression, and how you dress is an important part of how others perceive you. So to make sure you look your best, avoid the following:
• Flip flops and other open-toed sandals
• Athletic shoes
• Tank tops or shirts with thin straps
• Shorts
• Underwear that sticks out from your clothing (This could include the top of your boxers, briefs, etc., showing from the top of your pants or skirt, or bra straps showing.)
• Skirts or dresses that are too short (You can test this by standing and placing your arms straight down your sides. If the hem of your skirt is shorter than the end of your fingers, you may want to choose a longer one.)
• Shirts with low necklines or crop tops
Wearing the right interview clothes demonstrates to the interviewer that you respect the company culture, that you have spent time doing your research and that you are committed to making the best impression. Your attention to detail suggests that you have made every effort for your job interview. Think about your nails, your accessories, your shoes. Nothing is less impressive than a pair of scuffed shoes teamed with a crisp and professional suit!
Thus, even in this current day and age, where most interviews are conducted virtually, do not forget to follow these simple checklists and ensure that while you are comfortable, you are also respectful, smart and professional looking during the interview.