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

Have you applied for a job and received 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 show your enthusiasm?

I will help you.

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

Today, I want to share with you how to dress for a job interview, depending on the type of position you're applying for and the organization you're meeting with (whether it's a prestigious company, a family business, a start-up, or a community organization...).

When meeting with a hiring manager, it's crucial to demonstrate from the very first moment that you are ready for the job they want to offer you. Choosing the right outfit is key, as it reflects your understanding of the company and your motivation. For an office job, you should opt for a well-fitted suit, or for women, a suit or skirt. On the other hand, for a hands-on job, show that you understand the role by wearing clothing that highlights your energy (trousers for both men and women, a smart shirt, and flat shoes). Regardless of the profession, remember to wear well-fitted and clean clothes, pay attention to details (clean shoes, a watch, clothes in good condition), and be mindful of the impact of the colours you choose to wear.

Want to know more? Keep reading to find out:

• How to determine what type of outfit to wear for the job you're applying for,
• What colours to wear for different types of interviews,
• Examples of suitable attire for both men and women for various interview types (office job, manual work, public-facing roles),
• What clothing is best suited for an interview at a start-up company,
• Tips on how to appear dynamic, approachable, and professional, and how to impress potential employers!

First Step: Identify the Type of Position You’re After to Derive the 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 specific requirements: as a tradesperson, office worker, or cashier, you will be engaging in completely different tasks.

The purpose 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 convey to your potential future employer that you understand the attitude you need to adopt for the position they are offering you.

So, I've decided to suggest various outfits in this guide that are suitable for all kinds of jobs, whether it's:

• Office jobs: in a large office, in a family-owned business, etc.
• A trade 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 company

How to Dress for a Job Interview for an Office Position?

In this type of job, you will be working during office hours, carrying responsibilities, and possibly representing the company to business partners and potential clients. Therefore, it's important for you to demonstrate your professionalism, starting from the interview itself. Here are some outfit ideas that, when worn impeccably, can give you the presence and charisma needed 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: Grey or Navy Blue often come across as more dynamic and approachable.

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

💼 Choose a bag that resembles a briefcase, where you can carry your documents for the interview (resume, previous references, etc.) and possibly your laptop as well.

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

For a Woman

For this type of profession, opt for ultra-classic pieces that are well-tailored, similar to a gentleman's suit.

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 that your underwear doesn't show through, you can opt for skin-coloured options that aren't see-through, which can be quite uncomfortable.

👠 For shoes, I recommend wearing heels, whether they're flats or patterned. They give you a confident and assured presence that can leave a strong impression on the hiring managers.

👜 Also, choose a discreet and professional handbag that keeps your belongings neatly organized. 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 unorganized.

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

What Outfit Should You Wear for a Job Interview in a Craft Profession?

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

Even if you're going to be working in overalls, safety gear, or even in quite casual clothes, it's important to put in some effort when it comes to your job interview to show your motivation.

For a Man

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

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

👉 Did you know? Rolling up your sleeves makes you appear more dynamic. You can do this at the start of a job interview once you've gotten to know your interviewer a bit better.

For a Woman

Women are underrepresented in certain skilled trades: that's why the job interview is the perfect opportunity to demonstrate to the hiring manager that you would be a true asset to their company.

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

To create this impression, you can consider the following:

• Dark pants,
• A comfortable, solid-coloured blouse or shirt,
• Flat, solid-coloured sneakers,
• A jacket of the blazer type.

What clothes should you wear for a job interview in a customer-facing role?

It really depends on the type of establishment you'll be working in. For example, if it's a luxury boutique, you'll want to dress fashionably and stylishly. On the other hand, if it's a small family business, aim for a more approachable look by wearing appropriate attire that aligns with what was mentioned in the previous section.

The most important thing is to show your potential employer that you have researched the company or institution you are applying to, and that you understand the type of audience you might be dealing with. Dressing appropriately demonstrates that you can relate to the role you're aiming for, and this is viewed very positively!

For a Man

Depending on whether you can dress casually or not, you might opt for dark jeans. However, I recommend wearing a shirt and a blazer regardless, and in a more upscale work environment, even a tie would be appropriate.

🎨 However, you can choose other colours beyond what’s typically offered for an office job. Opting for Bordeaux red, sky blue, or even beige will make you appear approachable and full of energy.

⌚ Wearing a watch (which is rather discreet) can be viewed positively by the hiring manager: for this type of job, where punctuality and appearance are important, it is indeed fitting. A person who wears a watch is more likely to be on time and won’t keep reaching for their smartphone to check the time. 😉

For a Woman

For this type of job, you can wear well-fitted trousers with a blouse and perhaps a blazer jacket. A colourful pencil skirt would also work well.

👉 Are you looking for tops that would be suitable for such an occasion? Then check out our collection 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 at a start-up is often a significant step in one's career: These dynamic companies are known for providing employees with the opportunity to unleash their potential by engaging in areas they are passionate about.

So, I recommend that for an interview at such a company, you dress smartly and neatly, while also incorporating a bit of your personality, likes, 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 in an environmentally conscious company,
• A pair of unique sneakers that show you have an interest in fashion,
• For men, a shirt with a vibrant print (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 also feature an original design if you feel it suits 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 showcase their fashion sense.

➡ Discover inspirations now on our page dedicated to Boho fashion for women!

What should you definitely avoid wearing to a job interview?

Even though some companies, like start-ups, may allow for a more casual 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 advise you to avoid the following:

• Torn jeans and tops,
• Badges, T-shirts or other items that express your political views,
• Wearing overly flashy jewellery,
• See-through crop tops and tops,
• Oversized clothing...

Understanding the Language of Colors to Sell Yourself Better

Even though it might be unconscious, the colours you wear contribute to how others perceive you. To help you master this mysterious language, I’d like to explain the meaning of each colour:

• Neutral Colours:
• Blue: Calmness, self-confidence,
• White: Cleanliness, clarity, and simplicity,
• Grey: Sophistication, neutrality,
• Brown: Calmness, stability, security,
• Bold Colours:
• Black: Power, authority,
• Red: Energy, passion,
• Yellow: Joy, intelligence, mental agility,
• Green: Serenity, 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 fits perfectly with the company you applied to. Interested in more fashion tips? Check out our blog!