Dressing to make a great impression at an interview is essential, as we tend to hold onto our first impressions of people, which can be hard to change later. What you wear to an interview can demonstrate to interviewers how you may present yourself and the company.
Therefore, researching the company culture and industry is vital. It will enable you to make the best first impression possible and allow the interviewer to focus on your skills and abilities rather than your clothes.
What Not to Wear
Here are some pointers on what you should avoid wearing to an interview:
Bright, Flashy Colours or Patterns
Bright clothing and bold patterns can be a distraction; you want the hiring manager to concentrate on what you are saying, not the flowers on your tie.
What’s more, subdued colours and patterns are easier to match, helping you create a cohesive professional outfit.
Ill-Fitting Clothes
Attention to detail is everything in your outfit, and ill-fitting garments show that you have not taken extra thought and care when dressing. You will also feel far more confident in well-fitting clothing; it is an easy way to get an advantage before you walk through the door.
Too Much Perfume, Aftershave or Makeup
Whilst smelling and looking nice is a great way to build confidence, many people overdo it when entering pressurised situations. You do not want it to make the interviewer uncomfortable, so keep it understated. A little goes a long way.
Over-Loading Accessories
Accessories can easily cloud your outfit and distract the interviewer, especially if they are bright or noisy. You should only wear basic accessories, cover up tattoos and remove piercings (apart from small earrings).
Choose your accessories carefully, as they can communicate traits and habits. A simple watch is a great way to demonstrate you care about time management, although you should not look at it during the interview.
Plunging Necklines or Unbuttoned Shirts
A low-cut shirt can make people uncomfortable, no matter who wears it. It shows that you do not understand office norms and may concern your colleagues. Instead, choose a higher neckline. If you opt for a shirt with buttons, fasten all but the top two.
Short Hemlines or Shorts
Similarly to low necklines, wearing shorts in the office is also considered unprofessional, so you should not wear them to an interview. If it is a warm day, consider light fabrics like linen.
Inappropriate Shoes
Many people look at your shoes before any other part of your outfit, and they have traditionally indicated formality. Make sure they match your attire and are not too bold.
Black or brown leather shoes are the best option for men. Invest in a good pair and look after them; they will last a lifetime. For women, a professional pair of heels or flats is perfect.
Don’t forget that if you buy a new pair of shoes for the interview, they may need to be broken in, or your biggest weakness will be a throbbing blister on your heel.
Casual Clothing
Casual clothing is inappropriate for an interview, even your invitation calls it an ‘informal interview’. This name refers to the discussion, not the dress code.
Avoid t-shirts, jeans, athletic wear, trainers, hoodies and other casual garments. Formal alternatives will help you get in the mindset to impress.
Headwear
Headwear that is not religious or cultural is rarely appropriate in a job interview. If you have worn a hat to keep warm or your headphones on the way, remove them before you get to the interview location. Remember to tidy your hat hair as well.
Dated or Trendy Clothes
Business attire is not on the cutting edge of modern fashion, and wearing overly trendy or dated garments can signal that you have not considered appropriate clothing. Adding some personal style is fine, but do not get this mixed up with what may be professional within your interview setting.
Why Dressing Appropriately is Crucial
You only get one shot at a first impression, and unfortunately, many people make assumptions about our clothing choice.
Dressing appropriately shows that you understand the business and the requirements of its environment. It can demonstrate familiarity in this setting or that you have researched and considered your choice to fit in comfortably, highlighting how you are serious about your application.
It also can give you confidence. Interviews are stressful, and arriving under or overdressed can add embarrassment or discomfort to overcome when discussing your career. Keep the unnecessary pressure away to help you succeed.
Don’t let your clothes be a distraction – the interviewer may be off-put by what you are wearing and unable to focus on your qualifications, skills, abilities and answers.
How to Choose the Ideal Interview Outfit
Follow these easy tips to create an outfit that will help you get hired.
Research the Dress Code
Wearing inappropriate clothing may give the impression that you have not thought about the company’s culture. This includes dressing too formally too.
Before you create an outfit, you need to know what the manager expects of you. Your invitation to the interview may already specify the dress code. If not, you can research the business, its culture and its industry for the standard dress code. Or you can reach out to the hiring manager and ask.
Create an Outfit
Once you have understood the requirements, you can select your outfit. Try on different items a few days before the interview to give you time to replace them if needed. The shops will not be open the night before.
If you will rarely wear the items after the interview and want to save money, consider borrowing them from other people or buying them secondhand. Charity shops and online stores often deliver great value. Just make sure they will arrive on time and are in good condition.
Prepare Your Garments
Remember to prepare your garments in advance. You do not want to wake up and find your shirt is creased and your shoes are not polished. Iron everything carefully and set it out neatly so you can easily dress before leaving.
Let Us Find Your Dream Job
Now you know what not to wear to an interview, you just need to make sure you are ready to impress. If you want a new career path, our expert recruiters can steer you in the right direction. With CV optimisation services, job searching support, hiring management communication and interview preparation, we can set you up for success.
Speak to our friendly team today to learn more about our service and find your ideal role.
FAQ
Can I wear trainers to a job interview?
It depends on the formality of the interview. Clean, white leather trainers can suit some business casual dress codes. You should never wear athletic or trendy trainers to an interview.
Can I wear jeans to a job interview?
It depends on the formality of the workplace and the type of jeans. In some cases, a pair of tailored dark jeans is appropriate. However, chinos and smart trousers are a better option.
Are there any colours to avoid wearing to a job interview?
Bright colours and bold patterns can be off-putting and informal for a job interview, so choose simpler, subdued alternatives.
