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