What To Wear On A Job Interview And What To Avoid
Choosing an interview outfit can be a stressful experience. It can leave you feeling unprepared for your appointment. Here are some tips that can help you!
Dressing for a job interview or business casual can be just as stressful as the interview itself. We all know that first impressions usually stick. Wearing interview attire that looks good on you and fits the style of the company can help you make a great first impression. On the other hand, wearing something that's not appropriate or that doesn't fit well can do the opposite.
To help you figure out what to wear and what to avoid on a next job interview, we've put together a guide with some tips on what to wear and what to avoid. Keep reading for our advice on putting together the perfect interview outfit.
Got The Interview What To Do Next?
When it comes time to decide what to wear to a job interview, it can be helpful to think about the company's culture and the position you're interviewing for. If you're not sure what the office dress code is like, do some research online or by talking to people who work there. If you have a friend or family member who works at the company, they may be able to give you some insight into what the office dress code is like.
We know that everyone is different, so we can't just say, "pair the top with dress pants" and cover every professional on the planet. It doesn't work that way. You need to decide what to wear based on what makes you feel comfortable and like your best self. We suggest wearing something that makes you feel confident and shows off your personal style.
Right Styles To Wear For A Job Interview
When it comes time for a job interview, most of us feel the pressure to dress to impress. But what does that actually mean? What is the best formal business attire to wear to an interview? And what interview clothes should you avoid?
To help make things a little simpler, we've put together the following styles on what to wear to a job interview, as well as what to avoid.
Smart Casual
A smart casual is a great option for job interviews. It's professional but not overly formal dress code, which makes it ideal for most workplaces. To dress smart casual, pair a button-up shirt or blouse with dress pants or dark-wash jeans. You can also add a blazer or cardigan if you want to cover up your arms. Finish the look with closed-toe shoes, such as loafers, pumps, or Oxfords.
Wearing anything too casual, such as ripped jeans or t-shirts. You should also avoid wearing anything too revealing, such as short skirts or low-cut tops.
Business Casual
If you've ever wondered what to wear to a job interview at a bank or another more traditional company, business casual outfits are probably your best bet. This look is all about looking polished and put-together, without being too formal for a business casual job interview.
Avoid anything too casual, such as jeans, t-shirts, or sneakers. You should also avoid anything too formal, such as a suit or tie.
Business Formal
The most business formal option would be to wear a full matching suit and tie. This look is very polished and professional including a suit jacket, and it's the most likely to make a good impression on your interviewer. However, job interview attire can be a bit more difficult to prepare for, especially if you're not used to wearing a suit jacket.
If you decide to go for a business formal look, make sure your suit fits well and is clean and wrinkle-free. You should also avoid wearing anything too casual, such as sneakers or jeans.
Tips To Make Sure Your Style Is Bulletproof On Your Interview Day
One of the best things you can do to maximize your chances of success is cover all of your bases and plan for the worst. These tactics will help you make it happen.
The first thing you should do is research the company and the position you're interviewing for. This will help you understand the company's culture and what type of outfit would be appropriate. Tips are discussed in the following:
Do Your Laundry Before Interview Day
If you're going to be wearing a suit, make sure it's clean and pressed. The last thing you want is to show up to your interview with wrinkles in your clothes. If you're not sure how to iron a suit, take it to the dry cleaner the day before your interview and have them do it for you.
Prepare Your Interview
This will help you avoid any last-minute scrambling on the day of your interview. Layout everything you're going to wear, including your shoes and accessories. This will also give you a chance to make sure everything is clean and wrinkle-free.
Set Out Your Clothes The Night Before
This will help you avoid any last-minute mishaps, such as forgetting to iron your shirt or polish your shoes. You should also lay out any accessories you plan on wearing, such as a belt or watch. This way, you can make sure you have everything you need before you head out the door.
Give Yourself Plenty Of Time
The last thing you want is to show up to your interview sweaty and out of breath. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to get ready so you can take your time and relax. This will help you feel more confident and make a better impression on your interviewer.
Wear Appropriate Shoes
One of the most important things to remember when choosing what to wear to a job interview is to pick appropriate shoes. You want to avoid anything too casual, such as sneakers or sandals. Instead, opt for closed-toe shoes, such as loafers, Oxfords, or pumps.
Make sure your shoes are clean and in good condition. You don't want your interviewer to think you don't take care of your belongings.
Pack A Backup Interview Outfit
If you have the option to pack a backup interview outfit, do it. You never know what can happen between now and the moment you need to suit up. That way, you'll be prepared for any situation that comes your way.
Don't Skimp For The Video Interview
One way to make sure you're putting your best foot forward is to dress the part. You want to treat your video interview the same way you'd treat an in person. One, because you'll feel better if you give it the same weight. And two, because your interviewer will be able to get a better sense of who you are if they can see what you look like.
Make Sure You've Prepared For The Other Aspects
Of course, your outfit is important, but it's not the only thing that matters. You also need to make sure you've prepared for the other aspects of the interview, such as knowing how to answer common interview questions and researching the company.
If you focus on these things, you'll be sure to make a great impression at your next job interview.
What Not To Wear To A Job Interview
Now that we've gone over what you should wear, let's talk about what you shouldn't wear to a job interview. These are the things that will definitely not make a good impression on your interviewer.
Overly Casual Wear
Wearing a business casual interview dress code can be interpreted in different ways, so it's important to understand what your interviewer is expecting. Generally speaking, though, overly casual clothing is considered too informal for a job interview outfit. Some of the items that are usually considered too casual include jeans, t-shirt, sneakers, tank top, and hoodies.
If you're not sure if something is too casual, err on the side of caution and don't wear it. It's better to be overdressed than underdressed for a job interview.
Tight Or Ripped Clothing
Make sure that your clothing fits well before you go to an interview. Anything too tight should be left at home and replaced with something more appropriate. Wearing clothing that is too tight will make you look unprofessional and it will be uncomfortable to wear. choose clothing that is comfortable and tailored to fit your body well.
Anything Too Bright Or Flashy
While you want to make a memorable impression in your interview, wearing bright and flashy clothes is not the way to do it. It can be easy to stand out in a negative way if you're not careful with your clothing choices. Stick to muted colors and classic styles for your interview outfit. This will help you look polished and professional.
Clothing That Doesn’t Fit The Company Culture
Do your research on the company before you even attempt to choose something from your wardrobe. You want to be sure that what you're wearing is appropriate for the company culture. For example, if you're interviewing with a conservative company, you'll want to avoid wearing clothing that is too revealing, flashy, or a casual shirt.
On the other hand, if you're interviewing with a more relaxed company, you can be a little more creative with your clothing choices. The key is to make sure that you look like a good fit for the company culture.
Too Many Accessories
While some light accessories such as a watch, bracelet, or necklace, might be a great addition to your outfit, too many might cause an unwanted distraction. Try to stick to one or two accessories at the most, and make sure they are tasteful and not too flashy. This will help you keep the focus on your outfit, not your accessories.
Headwear
Hats are a definite no-go for a professional job interview. This means hats, beanies, and hoods. They will make you look unprofessional and they could potentially mess up your hair. Make sure that you're wearing shoes that are appropriate for the occasion, and avoid any overly casual clothing items.
Final Thoughts
