Dress Code Guide: What to Wear to a Job Interview

A job interview is not just an opportunity to showcase your skills and qualifications. It’s also a chance to make a lasting impression through your attire. The way you dress can convey professionalism, confidence, and attention to detail…or the exact opposite.

If you’re wondering what to wear to a job interview, you’ve come to the perfect place.

To help you make the right choices, we’ve put together a comprehensive dress code guide for job interviews. From general rules for matching various dress codes to specific attire suggestions for both men and women, we’ve got you covered.

How to Dress for a Job Interview

When it comes to dressing for a job interview, some general rules apply across all industries and positions.

First, you want to keep things conservative. Always opt for conservative attire that aligns with the company culture and the industry you’re applying to. It’s better to err on the side of being slightly overdressed than underdressed.

Next, you want to show up neat and wrinkle-free. While you want to show up in a well-pressed outfit for some industries, others allow you to be less pressed but still put together. You want to show that you pay attention to details and are taking the interview seriously.

For makeup, keep it subtle and professional. Ensure you show up with a clean and well-groomed appearance, including trimmed nails and tidy hair.

Choose comfortable shoes that are also professional. Typically, closed-toe heels or flats for women and polished dress shoes for men are safe choices. Also, you may want to avoid excessive jewelry and accessories to keep it simple, streamlined, and elegant.

When it comes to choosing a fragrance, avoid strong perfumes or colognes. You never know if you’ll encounter someone who has a sensitivity to scents.

What to Wear to a Job Interview

The appropriate attire for a job interview can vary based on the office dress code. Let’s explore some common dress codes and how to match them.

Formal or Business Professional

For industries like finance, law, or corporate environments, where formal attire is the norm, there are a few things you want to consider.

For women, you can’t go wrong with a tailored pants or skirt suit in a neutral color paired with a professional blouse or button-up shirt. Closed-toe heels and minimal accessories complete the look.

Men should opt for a dark-colored, well-fitted suit with a matching dress shirt and a conservative tie. Polished dress shoes and a simple belt are essential.

Business Casual

In more relaxed business settings, like marketing, tech, or creative industries, business casual is the way to go.

Women may want to choose dress pants or a knee-length skirt with a blouse or a professional dress. Pair with comfortable flats or low heels.

Men can go with dress pants or khakis paired with a collared shirt. No tie is necessary, but it is an option if you want. A blazer can be added to elevate the look.

Casual

For offices with a casual dress code, you can adopt a more relaxed yet polished approach.

Women can wear a smart blouse or a professional sweater paired with dress pants, or a skirt is a great option. Stylish flats or loafers are a great choice for shoes.

Men should choose dress pants or khakis with a dress shirt or a polo shirt. You can skip the tie but keep the look polished with clean, well-fitted clothes.

The Best Job Interview Attire

Now that we’ve covered the general guidelines and how to match different office dress codes let’s explore some of the best job interview attire options for both women and men.

Women’s Job Interview Attire

You can’t go wrong with a classic black pantsuit. This is a timeless option that exudes professionalism and confidence. Pair with a crisp white button-up shirt or a tasteful blouse.

A pencil skirt and blouse are another great option. Opt for a knee-length pencil skirt with a sophisticated blouse to create a polished and feminine look.

Another great option is a sheath dress. A well-tailored sheath dress layered with a blazer is a chic option that will keep you comfortable.

If you’re looking for some variety, consider a neutral-toned dress paired with a cardigan. This is a great way to create a versatile and elegant job interview outfit.

Wide-leg trousers paired with a silk blouse are another great way to strike the perfect balance between professionalism and modernity.

An A-line skirt with a classic turtleneck sweater is an effortless way to develop a stylish and warm outfit. This option is perfect if your interview is scheduled during colder weather.

If you’re looking for something that shows a bit more personality, choose a tasteful printed midi dress. You can easily pair it with a blazer for a touch of personality and sophistication.

Lastly, a well-tailored jumpsuit can be a chic and unexpected choice for a job interview. Stick with a modest option that fits you well to nail it.

Men’s Job Interview Attire

A well-fitted black suit is a versatile and classic choice for any job interview. Black can also be a go-to ensemble for other events and work days.

Choosing a well-fitting suit in charcoal gray is another way to exude professionalism and sophistication. Charcoal tends to be less harsh than black and works better with certain complexions.

For a more relaxed setting, khaki dress pants paired with a dress shirt create a smart-casual look.

For even more versatility, you can consider pairing a navy blazer with chinos. This is a stylish and comfortable option that’s perfect for creative environments.

Elevate your outfit with a tasteful tie and a pocket square for a touch of elegance.

If you’re looking for ways to add some personality to your job interview outfit, you can do so with a patterned dress shirt that is still professional.

Alternatively, a crisp white dress shirt is a fail-safe option that pairs well with any suit or dress pants.

Complete your look with polished leather dress shoes that complement your ensemble.

---

By following these dress code guidelines and selecting appropriate interview attire, you’ll make a positive and memorable impression on your potential employer. Remember, dressing professionally not only showcases your respect for the company but also boosts your confidence during the interview process. Good luck!