A person only gets one chance to make a good first impression during a job interview. While interview attire is unlikely to be the deciding factor, maintaining a professional appearance will improve one’s chances of landing the job. Appropriate interview attire demonstrates that the interviewee is serious about the process and is professional. When in doubt, overdress, but not to the point where the clothes become the focal point. A two-piece matched business suit in conservative colors that is clean and pressed is appropriate attire for a job interview for both men and women.
Even if the interview is taking place in an environment where suits are not required, an individual’s interview attire should include a suit. Navy or dark gray are suitable solid colors for a suit. Men and women should wear polished, conservative shoes and a white or light-colored long-sleeved shirt or blouse in addition to the suit.
Men should wear a matching suit jacket and pants, as well as a black belt, to their interview. The interview outfit must include a silk necktie, which is always fashionable. Ties should be conservative and add a subtle accent to your outfit. During the interview, ties with wild patterns, writing, or cartoon characters may be distracting.
When sitting down, men’s shoes should be polished and accompanied by socks that are long enough to cover the skin. Socks should be in a neutral color, such as blue, black, or gray. The amount of jewelry you wear should be kept to a minimum. Watches, cufflinks, and a wedding or college ring are all acceptable accessories.
Women, like men, should dress in a conservative two-piece suit in colors such as maroon, navy, brown, gray, or cream. A fine tailored jacket, paired with a blouse and skirt, can be worn instead of a matching suit. To hide any cleavage, blouses should be buttoned. The skirt’s length is crucial; it should be at or below the knee. Hosiery should be of a light color with no runs.
Shoes for women should be made of leather or fabric, have conservative heels, and be easy to walk in. A woman’s makeup should be kept to a minimum. A clear, conservative color is appropriate for a woman’s nail polish. Nails should also be trimmed, and each hand should only have one ring on it.
Hair should be clean and neat to complement interview attire for both men and women. Because some people may be allergic to perfumes or colognes, they should be used sparingly or not at all. If a person smokes, he should stop smoking before the interview to avoid the smell of cigarette smoke on his clothes.