Your attire is one of the first things a hiring manager will notice, and it plays a significant part in shaping their initial impression. The way you present yourself communicates professionalism, attention to detail, and respect for the opportunity. Navigating the different expectations for interview dress can feel complex, with standards varying widely across industries. This ensures that the focus remains on your skills and qualifications from the moment you walk in.
How to Determine the Company Dress Code
Before selecting an outfit, the first step is to research the company’s culture to understand its standard dress code. A great place to start is the company’s website, particularly the “About Us” or “Careers” pages, which often feature photos of employees in their work environment. These images provide direct visual cues as to whether the daily attire is formal suits or more relaxed ensembles. You can also look at the LinkedIn profiles of current employees to see what they are wearing in their professional photos.
If you still feel unsure after looking online, it is perfectly acceptable to ask the recruiter or your HR contact about the typical office dress code. If you have a personal connection at the company, reaching out to them for insight is another effective way to gauge expectations.
The Formal Business Interview Outfit
For interviews in traditionally conservative fields like finance, law, or corporate management, business formal attire is the standard. The foundation of this outfit is a well-tailored two-piece suit. Opt for a suit in a conservative, neutral color such as navy blue or charcoal gray, as these shades are versatile and convey competence. Black suits are also acceptable but can sometimes be perceived as overly formal, better suited for evening events.
The fit of the suit is important for a polished look. A suit jacket should fit comfortably around your shoulders and chest without appearing tight or boxy, and the trousers should be tailored to the correct length. Underneath the suit, a crisp, long-sleeved dress shirt in white or light blue is the most appropriate choice. These colors complement a dark suit.
Complete the ensemble with a silk tie that features a subtle pattern or a solid color, like burgundy or navy. Your leather belt should match the color of your shoes. For footwear, polished leather dress shoes are expected; black or dark brown Oxfords or Derbys are good options. Finally, ensure your socks are a dark color that coordinates with your trousers.
The Business Casual Interview Outfit
Business casual is a common dress code, but its definition can vary between companies. It still requires a polished and professional appearance. For a business casual interview, you can forgo the full suit but should still aim to look sharp and put-together. A good option is to pair a blazer or sport coat with dress slacks or chinos. A navy blazer is a versatile choice that can be paired with gray, khaki, or even navy trousers for a subtly contrasting look.
A button-down shirt remains a standard choice for a business casual interview. While white and light blue are always safe bets, you have more latitude to choose shirts with subtle patterns like fine checks or stripes. Whether or not you wear a tie is often optional in a business casual setting, but it’s wise to err on the side of caution and wear one if you’re unsure. You can always remove it if you feel overdressed upon arrival.
Your choice of footwear also expands with business casual. In addition to classic dress shoes like Derbys, you can also consider loafers, brogues, or Chelsea boots in leather or suede. Make sure your shoes are clean and in good condition, as they are a detail that interviewers often notice.
The Casual or Startup Interview Outfit
Dressing for an interview at a company with a casual or startup culture can be challenging because “casual” should not be interpreted as sloppy. While the environment may be relaxed, you still need to show that you are serious about the opportunity. It is always better to be slightly overdressed than to appear as though you didn’t put in any effort.
For this type of interview, consider pairing dark-wash jeans that are free of any rips or fading with a clean, well-fitting polo shirt or a casual button-down shirt. Another strong option is to wear chinos with a simple sweater or a casual blazer.
When it comes to footwear, you have more relaxed options, but they should still be clean and presentable. Clean leather sneakers, desert boots, or chukkas are all appropriate choices that complement a casual interview outfit. Avoid wearing athletic sneakers, sandals, or worn-out shoes.
Grooming and Finishing Touches
Regardless of the dress code, proper grooming is fundamental to making a positive first impression. Ensure you have a neat, professional haircut and that your facial hair is either cleanly shaved or tidily groomed. Pay attention to your hands as well; your fingernails should be clean and trimmed.
Your clothes must be clean, ironed, and free from any lint or pet hair. When it comes to accessories, less is more. A simple, classic watch can add a touch of sophistication, but avoid anything too flashy. It is also best to use cologne sparingly or not at all, as strong scents can be distracting or trigger allergies.
If you need to bring copies of your resume, a portfolio, or a notepad, carry them in a professional bag or a simple portfolio. This is more polished than carrying a backpack or a stack of loose papers.
What Not to Wear to an Interview
There are certain items of clothing and accessories that are generally inappropriate for any job interview, regardless of the company’s dress code. Avoiding these common missteps is just as important as choosing the right outfit. Casual clothing items such as graphic t-shirts, hoodies, shorts, and athletic wear should never be worn to an interview. Similarly, any clothing that is ripped, faded, or visibly worn should be avoided.
Footwear choices like sandals, flip-flops, and athletic sneakers are too informal for an interview setting. Even for casual interviews, it is best to opt for more polished shoe styles. Accessories like hats or excessive jewelry can be distracting and should be left at home.
Finally, ensure your clothing fits well and is not too revealing. Shirts should be properly buttoned, and your attire should be comfortable enough that you are not fidgeting or adjusting it during the interview.