The clothing you choose for a job interview signals your professionalism, respect for the opportunity, and attention to detail. Making a strong first impression is an important part of the process, and appropriate attire is a component of that. Your outfit should reflect the company’s culture and the role’s expectations, demonstrating that you can fit within their professional environment.
How to Determine the Company Dress Code
Before selecting an interview outfit, research the company’s level of formality. A good starting point is the company’s website, specifically the “About Us” or “Careers” pages, which often feature photos of employees at work. These images provide visual cues about the daily office attire.
Another resource is LinkedIn. Look up current employees of the company and observe what they are wearing in their professional photos or from company events. This can give you a sense of the workplace environment. If you have a direct contact, such as a recruiter, do not hesitate to ask them for guidance on the expected dress code. Observing the office in person, if possible, can also offer clues.
Common Interview Dress Codes for Men
Business Formal
Business formal is the most traditional and conservative dress code, reserved for interviews in fields like law, finance, or executive-level corporate roles. The standard for this category is a well-fitting, two-piece suit in a conservative color. Navy blue and charcoal gray are the safest and most professional choices.
Underneath the suit jacket, wear a crisp, long-sleeved dress shirt in white or light blue. A silk tie with a subtle pattern, such as stripes or a small geometric design, is a required element that should complement the suit and shirt. Complete the outfit with polished leather dress shoes, such as Oxfords, in black or dark brown, and ensure your dress socks match the color of your trousers.
Business Casual
Business casual is a common dress code for interviews in a wide range of industries. This style is more relaxed than business formal but still maintains a professional appearance. It does not require a full suit or a tie.
Start with a pair of slacks, such as dress pants or chinos, in a neutral color like gray, navy, or khaki. Pair these with a collared dress shirt. While a tie is not necessary, adding a sport coat or blazer is highly recommended as it elevates the entire look. For footwear, leather loafers or dress shoes are appropriate choices.
Smart Casual
For interviews at companies with a more relaxed atmosphere, such as tech startups or creative agencies, smart casual is an appropriate choice. This dress code balances a polished look with a more comfortable and modern feel. It allows for more personality than the other dress codes while still looking put-together.
A pair of dark-wash jeans, free of any rips or distressing, can be acceptable in this context. Alternatively, chinos are always a safe bet. Pair them with a clean, button-down shirt, which can be worn on its own or layered under a quality sweater or a casual blazer. Footwear options are broader here and can include clean, stylish sneakers, chukka boots, or loafers.
Key Grooming and Accessory Details
Beyond the clothes themselves, grooming and accessories are fundamental to presenting a polished image. Arrive with a neat, recent haircut. If you have facial hair, it must be well-trimmed and tidy; otherwise, be clean-shaven. Pay attention to your hands by ensuring your fingernails are clean and trimmed.
Accessories should be understated and professional. A classic watch with a leather or metal band is a suitable choice. Your belt should be made of leather and match the color of your shoes. If you carry anything into the interview, opt for a professional portfolio or a simple leather bag rather than a backpack. Cologne or aftershave should be used sparingly, as strong scents can be distracting or trigger allergies.
What to Avoid Wearing to an Interview
Certain items should always be avoided, regardless of the company’s dress code. Wrinkled or ill-fitting clothing suggests a lack of attention to detail. Avoid loud colors and busy patterns that can be distracting; your skills and experience should be the focus, not your shirt.
Graphic t-shirts, shorts, and athletic wear are too casual for any interview setting. Similarly, footwear like sandals, flip-flops, or athletic sneakers should not be worn. Do not wear a hat or any excessive jewelry. The goal is to appear professional and serious about the opportunity, and these items detract from that image.
Dressing for a Virtual Interview
Dressing for a video interview requires special considerations. It is important to dress with the same level of professionalism as you would for an in-person meeting to maintain a confident mindset. Focus on your appearance from the waist up, as this is what the interviewer will see.
Choose solid colors that look good on camera, as busy patterns can appear distorted or distracting on screen. Test your outfit with your lighting setup beforehand to ensure it presents well. It is also wise to wear professional pants or slacks; dressing completely helps you feel more prepared and avoids any potential embarrassment if you need to stand up unexpectedly. Finally, ensure your background is clean, organized, and free from distractions.