What to wear to an interview – and what to avoid!

Choosing the right interview outfit is crucial. Not only does it reflect your professionalism, but it also demonstrates your cultural fit within the team. When deciding what to wear to an interview, there’s a lot to consider – so the experts at TopCV have compiled their top tips to ensure you make the right impression from the moment you walk through the door. 

Why your interview outfit matters

It may seem trivial to put so much thought into what to wear to an interview, but first impressions count. The way you present yourself to a potential employer can speak volumes about the type of employee you will be. 

When you step into the interview room, will the interviewer see someone who has put effort into coming across as a professional who cares, or someone who looks like they’ve just fallen out of bed and rushed to make it on time? Before you’ve even said anything, judgements – rightly or wrongly (and maybe even subconsciously) – are being made. 

What to wear to an interview

Deciding what you should wear really depends on what type of workplace you’re interviewing at. A warehouse will have very different expectations to a law firm, for example. 

Suggestions for what to wear to an interview in casual workplaces and informal interviews:

• Dark trousers or skirt

• A clean, ironed shirt, blouse or polo

• Cardigans or jumpers may also be appropriate

• Closed flat shoes

Even if you know employees dress down day-to-day, you’d do better dressing up a bit for the interview, just to show you’re willing to make the effort and are taking the opportunity seriously. 

Suggestions for what to wear to an interview in a formal workplace: 

• A tailored business suit (trousers or skirt with jacket)

• A light shirt or blouse

• Tie 

• Smart shoes – heels are acceptable

• Optional belt and jewellery

If this is your first opportunity to work in a more formal work environment, you may not have an appropriate outfit yet. In that case, it’s wise to either borrow or invest in one, rather than miss out on the job for something within your control. 

Tips for dressing for an interview

Check out our five top tips to avoid wardrobe malfunctions on the day!

1. Research the company culture 

When it comes to selecting your interview wardrobe, it’s sensible to research the company dress culture first. What might be appropriate work attire at one company could be ill-suited for another. 

Check the images on the company website and LinkedIn page, or ask the HR Manager about the dress code prior to the interview. Your goal is to dress as though you already work at the company and are attending an important meeting.

2. Plan your outfit in advance

Avoid unnecessary stress on the morning of your interview and plan your outfit well in advance. There's nothing worse than spending the night before an interview worrying about what you're going to wear and then leaving the house unhappy with your outfit. If you're stressed or bothered, it'll show in the interview.

Know what you're wearing ahead of time so you can focus on other important things on the day, like arriving on time and practising your responses to common job interview questions.

3. Go overdressed rather than underdressed

If you're ever unsure of the dress code, play it safe. Always choose to be slightly overdressed rather than risk showing up underdressed. If in doubt, dress up not down.

4. Be yourself

While it's important to pay attention to the company dress code, it's also important to feel comfortable in what you're wearing. Pick an outfit that ticks all the boxes: work-appropriate, polished, and comfortable. If you feel good in what you're wearing, you’ll project confidence.

Similarly, don't feel like you have to compromise your personal style for professionalism. Pick an outfit that suits you and makes you feel at ease.

5. Do a dress rehearsal

Imagine planning your outfit days in advance, only to try it on the morning of the interview and realise it doesn't fit, your jacket is missing a button, or there's a hole in the seam of your trousers! Whatever it is, you want to avoid it.

Do a dress rehearsal a few days beforehand and try everything on from head to toe. If anything isn't right, you'll have time to change it.

What not to wear to an interview

You’re staring into your wardrobe, wondering “what should I wear to an interview?” and a whole array of options present itself. You’ve got outfits for partying, holidays, and walking the dog. It’s time to start narrowing down the options. 

Wherever you’re interviewing, we recommend avoiding: 

• Casual footwear such as flip-flops or designer trainers

• Skimpy or revealing clothes 

• Dirty, stained, or worn-out items

• Jeans or shorts

• Clothing with overt branding or slogans

• Anything that makes you feel uncomfortable – either physically or in yourself

We’d also advise avoiding strong perfumes and checking whether the company has a policy on visible tattoos and piercings – that’s an argument for another time. 

Make the right first impression

It's in your interest to take the opportunity to let the HR manager know why they should hire you – and it all starts with your presentation. Do your research, dress for success, and let your confidence shine through.

Just like your interview outfit, your CV should have professional polish. To find out if yours is suited for success, submit it now for a free CV review.

This article was originally written by Rikki Wimmer and has been updated by Jen David.

Recommended reading:

• How to calm your interview nerves and find confidence

• 15 questions to ask a hiring manager during an interview

• What to wear to a company holiday party