How to Dress for an Interview
In business, one’s dress is a reflection of one’s professionalism. Learn how to dress neatly and appropriately to make a good impression in an interview by following our run-down of the basics of professional dress for an interview.
WOMEN
General Advice
- Clothes should be clean, ironed, conservative, and fit properly.
- Dress for your body type (full-sized, medium, petite)
Color
- Avoid bright colors (hot pink, neon, etc.)
- Avoid loud prints and patterns
- Avoid mixing colors
- Use toned down colors (blue, gray, black, white, etc.)
- Use solids and minimal patterns
Hair Style
- Avoid multiple colors
- Avoid extreme hairstyles
- Use conservative styles
Make-Up
- Avoid heavy make up
- Avoid dramatic colors
- Use enough to accentuate the positive
- Use daytime colors
Shoes
- Avoid excessively high heels
- Avoid shoes that create a dangerous situation, such as flip flops
- Make sure that shoes are polished
- Wear heels at a comfortable height
- Protect your feet
Fragrance
- Avoid heavy perfumes and scented lotion
- Use a light fragrance
Accessories
- Avoid heavy jewelry
- Avoid noisy jewelry
- Wear light weight jewelry
- Wear scarves
MEN
A standard job interviewing attire for men
- A conservative dark navy or gray two-piece business suit
- A white long-sleeved button-down dress shirt
- A conservative tie that matches the colors in your suit
- Polished dress shoes
- Belt should always match your shoes
If you do not own a suit, wear the following:
- A conservative coat (no plaids or wild patterns and preferably a dark color)
- Nicely pressed dress slacks
- A white long-sleeved button-down dress shirt
- A conservative tie
- Polished dress shoes
- Belt should always match your shoes
Additional advice
- Clothes should be clean, ironed, conservative, and fit properly
- If you have a beard or mustache, your facial hair should be neatly trimmed
- Use conservative hair styles
- If you have any visible body parts pierced, most experts recommend removing all jewelry, including earrings
- Do not wear excessive cologne