Walking into a job interview is a bit like stepping onto a stage – first impressions are everything. What you wear speaks before you do, and while there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, there are some golden rules depending on the environment.

From the buttoned-up confines of a corporate boardroom to the laid-back vibe of a creative agency, here’s what to wear to an interview and how to get it right every time.

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Corporate and professional

In the land of suits and ties, tradition reigns supreme. Think navy or charcoal tailoring – simple, sharp, and dependable. Pair it with a crisp white or pale blue dress shirt, a plain silk tie (no novelty prints, thank you), and polished Oxfords or Derbies. Keep accessories to a minimum – a good leather belt and a discreet watch are all you need. True minimalists may even wish to swerve the belt.

This isn’t the place to experiment; it’s about looking capable, serious, and reliable. A flawless fit and impeccable grooming will do more for you here than any trend-led piece ever could.

Key points:

Wear a navy or charcoal suit.
Stick to white or pale blue shirts.
Pair with a plain tie and polished leather shoes.
Keep accessories simple.

Creative and innovative

If you’re stepping into the world of design studios, media agencies, or tech startups, the rules relax – but only slightly (unless you're in fashion, in which case the rulebook goes out the window). Go for smart-casual: tailored chinos or trousers, a relaxed Oxford or rollneck, and a blazer with a bit of texture (tweed or corduroy works nicely). Finish with clean trainers or loafers, depending on how much edge you’re willing to show.

You’re aiming for understated confidence, not a peacock parade. Show a hint of your personality through subtle choices – a pop of colour in your socks, perhaps, or a statement watch – but don’t go overboard. Take a look at what brands like Velasca and Myrqvist have to offer.

Key points:

Smart-casual is the goal.
Try chinos or trousers with an Oxford or rollneck.
Add a textured blazer and clean trainers or loafers.
Inject personality subtly.

Service-oriented and customer-facing

Whether it’s a retail role, a position in hospitality, or something mission-driven like non-profits, the goal is to look polished but approachable. A sharp pair of tailored trousers with a collared shirt or a smart dress with understated shoes will do the job. If the role leans formal, a blazer is a solid addition; if it’s more relaxed, a fine-knit jumper could suffice.

The key here is to look dependable and presentable without being intimidating. Clean lines, muted colours, and a touch of polish are all you need.

Key points:

Aim for polished but approachable.
Wear smart trousers with a collared shirt or dress.
Add a blazer for more formal roles.
Keep colours and details muted.

Hands-on and skilled labour

In the question of what to wear to an interview for trades or industrial roles, practicality is paramount – but that doesn’t mean scruffy. Dark jeans or chinos with a pressed button-up shirt or polo is a no-fuss combination that strikes the right balance. Clean, closed-toe shoes are essential (steel-toed if necessary), and a tidy appearance shows you mean business.

This is about function over flair – you’re there to show you’re reliable and professional, not to turn heads.

Key points:

Go for dark jeans or chinos and a pressed shirt or polo.
Ensure shoes are closed-toe and clean.
Keep your overall look tidy and practical.

Flexible and independent

The remote or freelance world is a sartorial minefield – too casual, and you risk looking disinterested; too formal, and you might appear out of touch. Strike a balance with business-casual: a blazer over a plain T-shirt or knit, dark jeans or tailored trousers, and versatile shoes like Chelsea boots or sneakers.

If you’re in a creative field, don’t be afraid to inject a bit of personality – a patterned shirt, vintage watch, or textured blazer can say more about you than a rote uniform.

Key points:

Balance business-casual with individuality.
Pair a blazer with a plain T-shirt, knit, or shirt.
Wear dark jeans or tailored trousers with versatile shoes.
Add subtle, creative touches where appropriate.

What not to wear to a job interview

Dressing for a job interview can feel like a minefield, but knowing what not to wear is just as important as choosing the right outfit. Avoiding these common pitfalls ensures your appearance supports your candidacy rather than detracting from it. Here's how to steer clear of sartorial missteps with a bit of finesse.

Overly casual clothing

T-shirts, hoodies, ripped jeans, and shorts might be fine for a lazy Sunday, but they don’t belong in an interview. Even if the workplace is casual, showing up too dressed down signals a lack of effort. The goal is to show respect for the opportunity by putting some thought into your appearance. A step up from the expected dress code is usually a safe bet.

Dirty or wrinkled clothes

Nothing undermines your professionalism like visibly dirty or wrinkled clothes. It suggests you didn’t care enough to prepare properly – not a great look when you’re trying to land a job. Always ensure your outfit is clean, pressed, and presentable. A quick once-over with an iron or a visit to the dry cleaner can make a world of difference.

Loud or distracting patterns

A bold print might be your signature style, but in an interview, it’s best to keep it subtle. Loud colours or chaotic patterns can overwhelm and shift attention away from what you’re saying. Neutral tones, classic tailoring, and a few understated details – like a pocket square or tie – strike the right balance between personal style and professionalism.

Too much fragrance

When it comes to deciding what to wear to an interview, the attention is mostly on clothing. Drenching yourself in cologne or perfume might seem like a power move, but it’s more likely to backfire. Overwhelming scents can distract or even irritate your interviewer, especially in close quarters. A light spritz is enough – just enough to leave a pleasant impression without lingering in the room after you’ve left.

Ill-fitting clothing

Nothing ruins an outfit faster than a bad fit. Clothes that are too tight or too baggy make you look uncomfortable and unprepared. Tailoring isn’t just for suits; even chinos and shirts can benefit from a nip and tuck. Well-fitting clothes signal attention to detail and confidence – two qualities any interviewer wants to see.

Scuffed or inappropriate footwear

Footwear is often overlooked, but it’s one of the first things people notice. Scuffed shoes or overly casual choices like flip-flops or sneakers (unless styled appropriately) suggest carelessness. Stick to clean, polished shoes that suit the formality of the role. A classic pair of brogues or loafers will rarely let you down.

Logo-heavy or branded clothing

Leave the logo tees and slogan sweatshirts at home. Clothing with big logos, phrases, or political statements can distract from your professionalism and even unintentionally offend. You want the focus on your skills and personality, not your T-shirt. Plain, well-tailored clothing always works better in these settings.

Ignoring the company’s dress code

Showing up in a suit to a laid-back tech startup or wearing trainers to a formal corporate office demonstrates poor research. This is why its vital to research what to wear to an interview relative to the company your applying for. Before the interview, check the company’s website, social media, or even ask the recruiter about the dress code. Dressing appropriately for the workplace culture shows you understand and respect the environment you’re hoping to join.

Next up: The complete guide to winter business casual.