Interview Appropriate Professional Attire

What to wear to an interview

While cliché, the saying, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression” couldn’t ring more true when you're meeting potential employers. But that doesn't mean you should skip an interview or other networking event just because you don't know what to wear. Here are a few tips and resources to help you dress appropriately:

Business Professional

Business professional is the style of attire we recommend if you’re participating in an interview or attending a professional networking event. Being too dressed up is often better than being dressed down! By taking a few simple attire tips, you can make certain employers view you as professional and ready to join the workforce.

Attire	Business Formal Recommendation
Suit	Choose a conservative 2-piece suit that has matching pieces, the same color and fabric type. Opt for darker colors such as black, blue and gray.
Bottoms	If you wear a skirt, keep the length conservative. Knee-length is generally acceptable. Pant length: Make sure your socks are not showing when you are standing.
Shirt	Select a conservative shirt in a more neutral color. Avoid busy or bright patterns or sheer (see-through) fabrics. If the shirt is buttoned, button the collar and make sure the shirt cuffs extend past the sleeves on your jacket.
Overall	Attire should fit well—not too small or too big. It should be comfortable when you stand, sit and walk. Be clean and free of wrinkles, tags, lint. Do not reveal any cleavage, midriff or undergarments (i.e. bra-straps).

Business Casual

Business casual is what you'd wear for daily work attire – as the name implies, it’s more laid back.

Attire	Business Casual Recommendation
Bottoms	Nice pants, slacks or skirts can be worn with appropriate top or you may wear a conservative dress. Skirt or dress length should still be conservative. Knee-length is generally acceptable. Dress pants or skirts should still be a conservative color (i.e. black, gray, brown). Leggings and jeans are not acceptable.
Jacket	In this situation, the fabric of the jacket and pants do not need to be the same if you choose to wear a jacket or sport coat.
Tops	Tops might include a button down shirt, blouse, or sweater. Blouses or button-up shirts will be tucked in and wrinkle-free.

Accessories

Bling is fine if you are applying for a position as a DJ, not so fine if you are applying for a professional position.

Accessory	Recommendation
Shoes	Wear dark or neutral colored shoes that are closed toe and polished. If you wear heels, opt for a pump-style shoe with heels less than 3" in height. A good guidelines for heels - how well do you walk in them? Some interviews may include a networking session or site tour, so plan appropriate footwear. Flip flops, sandals and athletic shoes are NOT acceptable.
Socks	Socks should match your pants. If you wear a skirt or dress, wear a pair of skin-tone pantyhose.
Belt	If you wear a belt, it should match your shoes.
Ties & Scarfs	If you wear a tie or scarf, keep the pattern and color conservative. No flashy designs or colors which draw attention.
Jewelry	Wear minimal jewelry.
Tattoos & Piercings	If you have tattoos or body piercings, consider the policies of the company with whom you are interviewing. Does it fit with their culture/standards?
Cell Phone	Your cell phone is not considered an accessory. Leave it in your vehicle. If you must have it with you during the interview, be sure it is turned off to avoid any distractions.

 

Grooming

You want to project an image that you take care of your self. Be tidy and professional. You are your business card.

Grooming	Recommendation
Hair	Hair is clean away from your face. Facial hair is trimmed and well-groomed.
Make Up	Keep make up minimal and natural looking.
Scents	Avoid strong perfumes, after shave or cologne.
Fingernails	Clean, trimmed fingernails. No pealing nail polish. If you wear nail polish, keep choice of color conservation (no bold or neon). Clear or neutral/nude is ideal.
Mouth	Brush your teeth. No gum, candy or cigarettes.

What Not to Wear

Sometimes, it’s better to know what you shouldn’t do, rather than what you should do. Here’s a list of inappropriate dress for a workplace. Remember, though, that the dress code depends on the workforce, but we recommend more professional attire, at least until you create rapport at the organization. You can also check the organization's website to see if a dress code is published for employees.

• No jeans
• No leggings
• No shorts
• No capris
• No spandex
• No yoga pants
• No flip flops
• No clogs or sandals
• No open-toed shoes
• No athletic shoes
• No tank tops
• No strapped tops