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

Have you applied for a job and landed 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 demonstrate your enthusiasm?

I will help you.

As a fashion enthusiast, I’m passionate about finding the perfect outfit for every occasion.

Today, I'd like to show you how to dress for a job interview, depending on the type of position you're applying for and the organisation you’re meeting with (whether it be a reputable company, a family business, a startup, or a community organisation...).

When meeting with a hiring manager, it is essential to show right from the start that you are ready for the job they want to offer you. Your choice of clothing plays a crucial role in this; it reflects your understanding of the company and your motivation. For an office job, opt for a well-fitted suit or a skirt suit if you're a woman. On the other hand, for a trade job, you should demonstrate your understanding of the role by wearing clothing that showcases your energy (trousers for both men and women, a shirt, and flat shoes). Regardless of the occupation, remember to wear well-fitting and clean clothing, pay attention to details (clean shoes, watch, and clothes in good condition), and be mindful of the impression the colours you choose will create.

Want to know more? Read on and 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 men and women for each type of interview (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 the hiring managers!

First Step: Identify the Type of Position You're Aiming For, so You Can Determine the Dress Code!

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

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

So, I've decided to suggest various outfits in this guide that are suitable for any type of profession, whether it be:

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

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

In this type of job, you will work during office hours, take on responsibilities, and may represent the company to business partners and potential clients. Therefore, it is essential for you to demonstrate your professionalism right from the job interview. Here are some outfit ideas that, when worn impeccably, will give you the presence and the necessary aura 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 look more dynamic and approachable.

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

💼 Choose a bag in the style of a briefcase that allows you to carry the documents for your job interview (such as your CV, past references...) as well as 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 profession, opt for ultra-classic and - similar to a men's suit - very well-tailored pieces.

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 opt for skin-toned options that are not see-through, which could be uncomfortable.

👠 When it comes to shoes, I recommend wearing heels, whether they are flat or stiletto-style. They give you a confident and assertive presence, which can leave a positive impression on hiring managers.

👜 Also, opt for a discreet and professional handbag that keeps your belongings neatly organised. When handing a document to your HR representative, you shouldn't have to rummage through your bag for minutes on end - that would come across as unorganised.

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

What Outfit Should You Wear to an Interview for a Trade Job?

In this type of profession, wearing a suit made of delicate fabric or stilettos could actually be detrimental. Your counterpart expects someone who understands the demands of the job and is willing to adapt!

However, even if you spend your working days in overalls, safety gear, or even in fairly casual clothing, it’s important to make an effort during the interview to demonstrate your motivation.

For a Man

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

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

👉 Did you know? Rolling up your sleeves gives off a more dynamic impression. You can do this at the start of a job interview once you've gotten to know your conversation partner a bit.

For a Woman

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

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

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

• Dark trousers,
• A comfortable, plain blouse or shirt,
• Flat, solid-colour sneakers,
• A jacket of the blazer type.

What clothing should you wear to a job interview for a position involving public contact?

It really depends on the type of establishment you will be working in. For instance, if it's a luxury store, you should dress in a fashionable and stylish manner. On the other hand, if it's a small family-run business, you should demonstrate approachability 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 institution you are applying to and that you understand the kind of audience you might be dealing with. Dressing appropriately shows that you can envision yourself in the role and is viewed very positively!

For a Man

Depending on whether you can dress casually or not, you might be able to get away with wearing dark jeans. However, I recommend wearing a shirt and a suit jacket at all times, and if you're in a more upscale work environment, even consider adding a tie.

🎨 However, you can opt for different colours than those typically offered for an office job. With Burgundy, Sky Blue, or even Beige, you will come across as approachable and vibrant.

⌚ Wearing a watch (after all, quite discreetly) can be viewed positively by the hiring manager: for this type of job, where punctuality and appearance are important, it's certainly appropriate. A person who wears a watch is more likely to be punctual and doesn’t constantly pull out their smartphone to check the time. 😉

For a Woman

For this type of job, you can wear well-tailored trousers with a blouse and possibly a blazer. You could 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 stylish and trendy Boho blouses, where you’re sure to find the perfect outfit for your upcoming job interview.

Tops and Blouses in Bohemian Chic

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

Working in a start-up can often be a significant step in your career: These dynamic companies are known for giving their employees the chance to realise their potential by working in areas they are passionate about.

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

• Wearing a natural colour (khaki green, ecru, beige) and sustainable fabrics (linen, cotton) for a job at an environmentally conscious company,
• A pair of unique sneakers that demonstrate your interest in fashion,
• For men, a shirt with a vibrant 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 also feature a unique design if you think it aligns with the company culture) paired with a suit jacket or blazer,
• A vest over a shirt for men,
• Boho-style clothing for women who want to showcase their fashion sense.

➡ Discover inspiration now on our site 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 a more relaxed dress code, there are still details that can work against you in any situation. To present your best self and convey to others that you’d like them to get to know you better, I would advise you to steer clear of the following:

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

Understanding the Language of Colours to Sell Yourself Better

Even if it's often subconscious, the colours you wear help shape how others perceive you. To assist you in mastering 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: Tranquility, solidity, security,
• Vibrant 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 interview by choosing an outfit that perfectly aligns with the company you've applied to. Are you keen for more fashion tips? Take a look at our blog!