How to Dress for a Job Interview? 💼 Our Complete Guide!

Have you applied for a job and landed an interview? Congratulations! But now you're wondering how to dress for the occasion? What outfit should you wear to make a good impression on the hiring manager and demonstrate your enthusiasm?

I will help you.

As a fashion-enthusiast woman, I always strive to find the right outfit for every occasion.

Today, I want to show you how to dress for a job interview, depending on the type of position you’re applying for and the organisation you’ll be meeting with (whether it’s a well-known company, a family business, a start-up, or a community organisation...).

When meeting with a hiring manager, it's crucial to demonstrate from the very first moment that you're ready for the job they're considering you for. Your choice of clothing plays a significant role in this; it reflects your understanding of the company and your motivation. For an office job, opt for a well-fitting suit or, as a woman, a tailored dress or skirt. On the other hand, for a trade job, you want to show that you understand the expectations by wearing attire that conveys your energy (trousers for both men and women, a shirt, and flat shoes). Regardless of the profession, remember to wear clean and well-fitting clothing, pay attention to details (clean shoes, a watch, clothes in good condition), and consider the impression the colours you choose will leave.

Want to learn more? Keep reading to find out:

• How to determine what type of outfit you should wear for the job you're applying for,
• Which colours are appropriate for different types of interviews,
• Examples of suitable attire for both men and women for various types of interviews (office jobs, manual labour, customer-facing roles),
• What clothing is most appropriate for an interview at a start-up company,
• Tips on how to come across as dynamic, approachable, and professional, and how to impress the hiring managers!

First Step: Identify the Type of Position You’re Targeting to Derive a Dress Code!

To find the perfect outfit for your job interview, the first step is to determine what is expected of you in that role. Each profession has its own work culture and unique requirements: for instance, you will be performing completely different tasks as a tradesperson, office worker, or cashier.

The aim of a job interview is to determine whether you are suitable for the role and if the company can trust you. By dressing appropriately, you demonstrate to your potential future employer that you understand the attitude you need to have to accept the position they are offering you.

So, I've decided to suggest various outfits in this guide, suitable for all types of professions, whether it’s:

• Office jobs: in an open-plan office, in a family business, etc.
• A trades profession: machine operator, hairdresser, florist...
• A job with public interaction: cashier, nurse, tour guide, medical secretary, ...
• A role with authority: police officer, university lecturer, doctor...
• A position in a start-up

How to Dress for a Job Interview in an Office Setting?

In this type of job, you'll be working during office hours, taking on responsibilities, and potentially representing the company to business partners and prospective clients. Therefore, it's essential for you to demonstrate your professionalism, starting right from the interview. Here are some outfit ideas that, when worn impeccably, can give you the presence and the necessary aura to impress a hiring manager.

For a Man

A clean, well-tailored suit is essential for this type of job. You don't necessarily have to wear a black suit: Grey or Navy often appear more dynamic and approachable.

👔 Additionally, wear a plain tie, or one with simple patterns. To tie the perfect knot, you can use the method shown in this video.

💼 Choose a briefcase-style bag to carry your documents for the interview (resume, previous references...) and possibly your laptop.

👞 Finally, pay attention to well-polished leather shoes, which can be black (if your suit is black or grey) or brown (if your suit is blue).

For a Woman

For this type of job, opt for ultra-classic pieces that are very well tailored, just like a men's suit.

For instance, you could wear a pencil skirt paired with a matching blazer and a subtle blouse underneath. Instead, opt for neutral colours, such as:

• Blue
• White
• Grey
• Chestnut Brown

To ensure your underwear isn't visible, you can choose skin-toned styles that are not sheer, which could be uncomfortable.

👠 When it comes to shoes, I recommend wearing heels, whether they are flat or stilettos. They give you a confident and self-assured presence that can impress hiring managers.

👜 Choose a subtle and professional handbag that neatly stores your belongings. When handing over a document to your HR representative, you shouldn't have to rummage through your bag for minutes - that would make you seem disorganised.

👉 This is also suitable for prestigious occupations where you need to set an example, such as a doctor, teacher, or police officer.

What Outfit for a Job Interview in a Trade?

In this line of work, wearing a suit made of delicate fabric or stilettos can work against you. This is because others expect you to be someone who understands the demands of the profession and is ready to adapt!

However, even if you work in overalls, safety gear, or even quite casual attire, it’s important to put in a bit of effort for your job interview to demonstrate your motivation.

For a Man

For this type of interview, you can wear clean and new clothes, such as:

• a light shirt,
• dark trousers or jeans,
• sneakers or other subtle, solid-colour shoes,
• a blazer if it's chilly.

👉 Did you know? Rolling up your sleeves gives you a more dynamic appearance. You can do this at the start of a job interview after you've met your interviewer.

For a Woman

Women are underrepresented in some trades, so the job interview is the perfect opportunity to show the hiring manager that you would be a valuable addition to their company.

I recommend wearing an outfit that allows you to move freely and portrays you as a motivated and efficient individual.

To create this impression, you can rely on the following:

• Dark trousers,
• A comfortable, plain-coloured blouse or shirt,
• Flat, plain-coloured sneakers,
• A jacket, such as a blazer.

What Clothing Should You Wear to a Job Interview for a Role Involving Customer Interaction?

It really depends on the type of establishment you'll be working in. For instance, if it’s a luxury store, you should dress fashionably and stylishly. However, if it’s a small family business, you should show that you are approachable by wearing appropriate attire that aligns more with what was mentioned in the previous section.

The most important thing is to demonstrate to your potential employer that you have researched the company or organisation you're applying to and that you understand the type of audience you may encounter. Dressing appropriately shows that you can envision yourself in the future role, and this is viewed very favourably!

For a Man

Depending on whether you can dress casually or not, you might manage a pair of dark jeans. However, I recommend that you wear a shirt and a blazer, and in a more upscale work environment, even a tie would be a good idea.

🎨 However, you can afford to wear different colours than what’s typically offered for an office job. With Bordeaux, Sky Blue, or even Beige, you'll come across as approachable and full of energy.

⌚ Wearing a watch (after all, it's fairly discreet) can be viewed positively by hiring managers: for this type of job, where punctuality and presentation are important, it makes perfect sense. A person who wears a watch is more likely to be on time and won't constantly pull out their smartphone to check the time. 😉

For a Woman

For this type of job, you can wear well-fitted trousers with a blouse and possibly a blazer. You might also consider wearing a colourful pencil skirt.

👉 Are you looking for tops that might be suitable for such an occasion? Then check out our selection of stylish and trendy Boho blouses, where you're sure to find the perfect outfit for your upcoming job interview.

Tops Blouse in Bohemian Chic

How to Dress for a Job Interview at a Start-up

Working in a start-up can often be a significant leap in your career. These dynamic companies are renowned for providing their employees with the chance to realise their potential by engaging in areas they are passionate about.

Therefore, I recommend that for a job interview at such a company, you dress smartly and neatly, while also showcasing a bit of your character, preferences, and beliefs. This can be reflected in the details, which are quite important for the recruiter:

• Wearing a neutral colour (khaki green, ecru, beige) and sustainable fabrics (linen, cotton) for a job in an environmentally conscious company,
• A pair of stylish sneakers that demonstrate your interest in fashion,
• For men, a shirt with a bold pattern (checks, stripes, etc.),
• For women: a lovely patterned blouse,
• A pair of dark jeans that give you a dynamic look,
• A T-shirt (which can have a unique design if you feel it fits the company culture) paired with a suit jacket or blazer,
• A vest over the shirt for men,
• Boho clothing for women who want to showcase their sense of style.

➡ Discover inspiration now on our site dedicated to women's Boho fashion!

What should you definitely avoid wearing to a job interview?

Even though some companies, particularly start-ups, may allow a more relaxed dress code, there are still details that can really work against you in any situation. To put your best foot forward and convey to others that you’d like them to get to know you better, I would advise against the following:

• Torn jeans and tops,
• Pins, t-shirts, or other items that express your political stance,
• Wearing overly flashy jewellery,
• Sheer crop tops and tops,
• Oversized clothing...

Understanding the Language of Colours to Sell Yourself Better

Even though it’s often unconscious, the colours you wear help shape the impression you make on those you meet. To help you master this mysterious language, I’d like to explain the meaning of each colour:

• Neutral Colours:
• Blue: Calm, confidence,
• White: Cleanliness, clarity, and simplicity,
• Grey: Sophistication, neutrality,
• Brown: Stability, solidity, security,
• Vibrant Colours:
• Black: Power, authority,
• Red: Energy, passion,
• Yellow: Joy, intelligence, mental agility,
• Green: Serenity, wellbeing, hope,
• Pink: Kindness, warmth, gentleness.

I hope these tips have helped you prepare for your upcoming job interview by selecting an outfit that perfectly suits the company you've applied to. Are you keen for more fashion advice? Check out our blog!