What to Wear to Your Job Interview
Your complete guide to making the perfect first impression, from boardroom to video call
Professional Color Palette
What you wear to a job interview speaks volumes before you even say a word. In the few seconds it takes to form a first impression, your attire communicates professionalism, attention to detail, and respect for the opportunity.
Whether you're walking into a boardroom or logging onto a video call, choosing the right outfit is a strategic move that boosts your confidence and lets your qualifications shine.
Here's how to nail your interview look, every time.
1 The Golden Rule: Do Your Homework First
The single most important step is to decode the company's culture. A suit might be perfect for a law firm but could make you look out of place at a tech startup. Your goal is to look like you belong.
Check their website and social media
Look at "About Us" or "Team" pages. Photos from office events on LinkedIn or Instagram are great clues.
Ask the recruiter
It's perfectly acceptable to ask about the company's dress code when scheduling your interview.
When in doubt, dress one step up
Business casual office? Aim for business professional. Shows you're serious without looking disconnected.
2 For the In-Person Interview: A Head-to-Toe Guide
👔 Business Formal
Think: Law, Finance, Corporate - The most traditional look
Men
- • Well-tailored suit (navy or charcoal gray)
- • White or light blue dress shirt
- • Conservative tie
- • Polished leather dress shoes
Women
- • Matching pantsuit or skirt suit
- • Simple blouse
- • Closed-toe pumps or flats
- • Minimal jewelry
👗 Business Casual
Most modern offices - Polished without a full suit
Men
- • Dress slacks, chinos, or khakis
- • Button-down shirt or polo
- • Sport coat or blazer (optional)
- • Leather shoes or loafers
Women
- • Tailored slacks or knee-length skirt
- • Blouse or sweater
- • Professional dress with blazer
- • Pumps, flats, or ankle boots
👟 Startup Casual
Think: Tech, Creative Agencies - Being overdressed is riskier than underdressed
Men
- • Clean, dark-wash jeans (no rips)
- • Button-down shirt or quality polo
- • Chinos or smart trousers
- • Clean sneakers or casual shoes
Women
- • Dark-wash jeans or smart trousers
- • Stylish blouse
- • Casual blazer for polish
- • Fashion sneakers, flats, or ankle boots
📹 For the Virtual Interview: Mastering the On-Screen Look
Camera-Friendly Color Guide
✅ Best Colors
❌ Avoid These
🎯 Full Outfit
Dress professionally head to toe. You might need to stand unexpectedly, and it puts you in the right mindset.
🎨 Create Contrast
Don't blend into your background. Light wall? Wear darker colors. Dark background? Choose lighter tones.
🏠 Clean Background
Tidy wall or neat bookshelf works best. Use virtual backgrounds sparingly and keep them professional.
✨ The Finishing Touches for Any Interview
Grooming
Hair neat and styled away from face. Clean, trimmed nails.
Accessories
Keep minimal and non-distracting. Simple watch or small earrings.
Scent
Avoid strong perfumes or colognes. None at all is safest.
Your Interview Outfit is a Tool
Use it to build confidence and present a polished, professional image that allows your skills and personality to be the main event. When you look good, you feel good—and when you feel good, you interview better.
