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You applied for a job and got an interview? Congratulations! But you might be wondering how to dress for the occasion. What outfit should you wear to make a good impression on the hiring manager and showcase your motivation?

I will help you.

As a fashion enthusiast, I strive to find the perfect outfit for every occasion.

Today, I want to show you how to dress for a job interview based on the type of position you’re applying for and the organization that’s interviewing you (whether it’s a prestigious company, a family business, a startup, or a nonprofit…).

When meeting a hiring manager, it’s essential to demonstrate from the very first moment that you are ready for the job they’re considering you for. Choosing the right outfit is crucial, as it reflects your knowledge about the company and your motivation. For an office job, you should opt for a well-fitted suit or, if you’re a woman, a suit or skirt. On the other hand, for a trade job, you should convey that you understand the requirements by wearing clothing that emphasizes your energy (pants for both men and women, a shirt, and flat shoes). Regardless of the profession, remember to wear well-fitted and clean clothes, pay attention to details (clean shoes, watch, clothing in good condition), and consider the impression that the colors you choose will create.

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 colors are appropriate for different types of interviews,
• Examples of suitable clothing for men and women for various interview types (office job, manual labor, customer-facing roles),
• What attire is best for an interview at a start-up company,
• Tips on how to appear dynamic, approachable, and professional to impress the hiring manager!

First Step: Identify the Type of Position You’re Aiming For to Determine the Dress Code!

To find the perfect outfit for your interview, the first step is to understand what is expected of you in that job. Each profession has its own work culture and specific requirements: as a tradesperson, office worker, or cashier, you will perform entirely different tasks.

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

That’s why I’ve decided to suggest various outfits in this guide that are suitable for every type of profession, whether it’s:

• Office jobs: in a large open-plan office, in a family business, etc.
• A skilled trade: machine operator, hairstylist, florist, …
• A customer-facing role: cashier, nurse, tour guide, medical secretary, …
• A position of authority: police officer, university lecturer, doctor, …
• A job at a start-up company

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

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

For a Man

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

👔 Additionally, wear a solid color tie or one with simple patterns. To tie a suitable knot, you can use the method demonstrated in this video.

💼 Choose a briefcase-style bag that you can use to carry your interview materials (resume, references, etc.) and possibly your laptop.

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

For a Woman

For this type of profession, choose ultra-classic and – similar to men’s suits – very well-tailored pieces.

For example, you can wear a pencil skirt, pair it with a matching blazer, and wear a subtle blouse underneath. Instead, opt for neutral colors, such as:

• Blue
• White
• Gray
• Chestnut Brown

To ensure that your underwear isn’t visible, you can opt for skin-toned styles that are not transparent, which could be uncomfortable.

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

👜 Additionally, choose a discreet and professional handbag that keeps your belongings organized. When handing a document to your HR representative, you shouldn’t have to rummage through your bag for minutes – that would make you appear unorganized.

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

What Outfit to Wear for a Job Interview in the Skilled Trades?

In this type of profession, wearing a suit made of delicate fabric or stilettos can be a disadvantage. Your counterpart expects someone who understands the demands of the profession and is ready to adapt!

Even if you work in a jumpsuit, safety gear, or even casual clothing, it’s important to put in a little effort during the 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 pants or jeans,
• neutral-colored sneakers or plain, solid shoes,
• a blazer if it’s cold.

👉 Did you know? Rolling up your sleeves can make you appear more dynamic. You can do this at the beginning of a job interview after you’ve gotten to know your interviewer.

For a Woman

Women are underrepresented in certain trades, which makes the job interview the perfect opportunity to demonstrate to the hiring manager that you would be a valuable addition to their company.

I recommend wearing an outfit that allows you to move easily and conveys the image of a motivated and efficient person.

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

• Dark pants,
• A comfortable, solid-colored blouse or shirt,
• Flat, solid-colored sneakers,
• A jacket in the style of a blazer.

What attire should you wear to a job interview for a position with public interaction?

It really depends on the type of establishment where you will be working. For example, if it’s a luxury shop, you’ll want to dress in a fashionable and stylish manner. On the other hand, if it’s a small family business, you should show that you’re approachable by wearing appropriate clothing that leans more towards what was mentioned in the previous section.

The most important thing is to show your future employer that you have researched the company or organization you are applying to, and that you understand the type of audience you might encounter. Dressing appropriately demonstrates that you can envision yourself in this future role, which is viewed very positively!

For a Man

Depending on whether you can dress casually or not, you might be able to wear dark jeans or you might not. However, I recommend that you wear a shirt and a blazer in any case, and even a tie if you are in a luxurious work environment.

🎨 However, you can choose other colors than those typically offered for an office job. With Burgundy, Sky Blue, or even Beige, you will appear open and energetic.

⌚Wearing a watch (after all, it’s quite discreet) can be viewed positively by hiring managers: for jobs where punctuality and appearance matter, this is quite appropriate. A person with a watch is more likely to be on time and won’t be constantly pulling out their smartphone to check the time. 😉

For Women

For this type of job, you can wear well-fitted pants with a blouse and possibly a blazer. You can also opt for a colorful pencil skirt.

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

Tops Blouse in Bohemian Chic

How to Dress for an Interview at a Start-up?

Working at a start-up is often a significant step in one’s career. These dynamic companies are known for giving their employees the opportunity to unleash their potential by working in areas they are passionate about.

I recommend that for a job interview at such a company, you dress stylishly and neatly, while also revealing a bit of your personality, preferences, and beliefs. This can be shown through details that are important to the hiring manager:

• Wearing a neutral color (khaki green, ecru, beige) and sustainable fabrics (linen, cotton) for a job at an environmentally-conscious company,
• A pair of unique sneakers that showcase your interest in fashion,
• For men, a shirt with a colorful print (checks, stripes, etc.),
• For women: a pretty patterned blouse,
• A dark pair of jeans that create a dynamic look,
• A T-shirt (that can also have an original design if you think it fits the company culture) paired with a suit jacket or blazer,
• A vest over the shirt for men,
• Boho-style clothing for women who want to express their sense of fashion.

➡ Discover inspiration now on our website dedicated to women’s Boho fashion!

What you should definitely avoid wearing to a job interview

Although some companies, like start-ups, may allow a more casual dress code, there are still details that can really work against you in any situation. To present your best self and convey a desire for the other person to get to know you better, I advise you to avoid the following:

• Ripped jeans and tops,
• Pins, T-shirts, or other details that showcase your political views,
• Wearing excessively flashy jewelry,
• Sheer crop tops and tops,
• Oversized clothing…

Understanding the Language of Colors to Market Yourself Better

Even though it’s often unconscious, the colors you wear help shape how others perceive you. To help you master this mysterious language, I’d like to explain the meaning of each color:

• Neutral Colors:
• Blue: Calmness, Confidence,
• White: Cleanliness, Clarity, and Simplicity,
• Gray: Sophistication, Neutrality,
• Brown: Calmness, Solidness, Security,
• Vibrant Colors:
• Black: Power, Authority,
• Red: Energy, Passion,
• Yellow: Joy, Intelligence, Agility,
• Green: Tranquility, Well-being, Hope,
• Pink: Kindness, Warmth, Gentleness.

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