Congratulations! You landed the job interview! Pat yourself on the back. Your resume made a great first impression, and now it’s time for your interview outfit to do the same. When it comes to nailing your next interview, presenting yourself in a professional manner is vital. So, whether you’re interviewing for a corporate position or a creative role, in-person or virtual, this guide will help you decide what to wear for the interview.
Decoding Dress Codes: Business, Business Casual, and Casual
Stepping into an interview, the last thing you want is to second-guess your look. Familiarize yourself with the company’s dress code and company culture to get a feel for whether you should show up in business (also known as business formal), business casual, or casual attire. The company’s website and social media profiles are great places to scope out the vibes and get a feel for how you should dress. Consider the work environment, too. Working in a corporate office calls for different attire than working in a factory or in an oil field.
When we talk about business attire, we mean a polished, ready-to-impress look. Even if the job is relatively laid back, now is not the time to show up in a wrinkled t-shirt and flip flops. To impress your new prospective employer, think of tailored suits for men in classic colors like charcoal or navy, complemented by crisp white dress shirts, and tasteful ties. Wearing a business suit for interviews communicates professionalism and respect. It’s expected for corporate roles or settings where you’ll be interacting with customers or senior-level executives.
Moving a step down the formality ladder, we find business casual. This style strikes a balance between the rigidity of business wear and the comfort of casual attire. Your trusted dress shirts still play a big role here, but paired with khakis or chino pants instead of a full suit. If you still want the look of a suit without the formality, opt for a sport coat that is comfortable yet presentable. While you can leave your tie at home, smart polo shirts and well-fitting casual dress pants are key. This look conveys easy-going confidence, perfect for startups or creative roles.
Dressing for Virtual Interviews
The landscape of job interviews has changed dramatically, with virtual interviews via platforms like Zoom becoming more the rule than the exception in this era of remote and hybrid work opportunities. Your professional image matters as much on screen as it does in person. It may be tempting to opt for a professional top and comfy sweatpants, given that only your upper body is typically visible. However, when it comes to what to wear for a virtual interview, dressing fully can boost your confidence and maintain a professional mindset. Plus, you never know if you might need to stand up to go get something during the interview. If so, you don’t want to be caught on camera wearing a button-down shirt and pajama bottoms! You probably won’t need to dress up every day for a home-based position, but it’s still important to make sure you look good for your interview.
For your video interview, pair a neutral color dress shirt with comfortable, well-tailored dress pants. Ensure your lighting is flattering and doesn’t cast harsh shadows. Keep your background clean and free from distractions, and avoid wearing patterns or bright colors that can be visually jarring on camera. As a rule of thumb, it’s best to dress the same way for a video interview as you would for a traditional face-to-face interview. First impressions matter—even if they’re made virtually.
What Now to Wear: Avoiding Common Interview Attire Mistakes
No matter where you are in your job search, it’s as crucial to know what not to wear as it is to know what to put on. A common pitfall is leaning too far into casual attire—remember, it’s better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed. This is especially essential when presenting yourself as a business professional. Equally important is avoiding ill-fitting clothing, which can look unprofessional. If you’re worried about this, visit a Men’s Wearhouse location and work with a stylist to find pieces that fit you perfectly and help you look your best.
The Power of Accessories
Accessories are the secret weapons in your interview arsenal. When chosen wisely, items like ties and belts can take your outfit from good to outstanding. They add a layer of sophistication to your look and show your attention to detail—something hiring managers are sure to appreciate, even if only subconsciously. However, remember the golden rule: less is more. So, when it comes to what to wear for an interview, a well-chosen tie or an elegant men’s belt is often enough. A stylish watch is an excellent option, too.
While maintaining a professional image, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through your accessories. Maybe it’s a uniquely patterned pocket square or a vintage tie bar. These details can make a memorable impression.
Final Thoughts on Interview Attire
Preparing for an interview goes beyond rehearsing common questions and updating your resume. The outfit you choose for this occasion is a visual representation of your professionalism and attention to detail. You can present your best self by understanding the different levels of dress attire and avoiding common mistakes.
Don’t underestimate the power of accessories or the confidence that comes from well-fitted clothing. Men’s Wearhouse is here to help you dress for success with a wide range of suits, dress shirts, pants, and accessories to ensure you’re interview-ready. So, take a deep breath, dress the part, and remember—you’ve got this!