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:
Video: Dress for Success
It's a well-known fact that first impressions go a long way. When it comes to your chosen attire, your look could make the difference in landing the interview, the job, or even a promotion down the road. We show you how to build the perfect outfit for both Business Formal and Business Casual occasions as well as tell you when to wear each one!
Dress for Success Video
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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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| 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).
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Video: Professional Dress
The way you dress and present yourself for a job interview can make or break landing the job. Fashion experts from a major retailer share best practices and common misconceptions for attire, accessories, and hygiene.
Professional Dress Video
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.
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| Tops |
- Tops might include a button down shirt, blouse, or sweater. Blouses or button-up shirts will be tucked in and wrinkle-free.
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Video: Business Casual
Business casual is a less formal style of attire for the workplace. Learn the do’s and don’ts of business casual dress from fashion experts.
Business Casual Video
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 |
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| 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?
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| 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.
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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.
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| 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.
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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