What To Wear For An Interview: Success Comes With Planning And Preparation

Your outfit can either make or break your first impression at a job interview. Both casual and formal settings require attention to dress code. Here is a definitive guide on how to wear attires for interviews so that you may showcase your skills to the fullest.

1. A COMPANY’S CULTURE IS IMPORTANT FOR DECIDING DRESS CODE

Dress codes vary between industries and companies. What is the nature of the business? Formal? Casual? Relaxed? Creative?

2. DRESSED TO IMPRESS – CONSIDERATION OF ATTIRE

The below listed outfit ideas are not only ageless but also stand up to a certain level of formality:

• For Men:

Formal Interview - Navy, black or grey suit that fits well, along with a collared shirt and a tie. Dress shoes and a belt should match your suit.

Business Casual - Dress pants or chinos with closed toe shoes, blazer on top and a collared shirt are a must.

Leisure: Dressed down buttoned shirt or polo with chinos and dark jeans with clean shoes.

• For Women:

Formal Interview - Closed toe shoes or flats with a tailored suit or a professional dress with a blazer.

Business Casual - Smart blouse with dress trousers or pencil skirt, donning a fitted blazer or cardigan on top.

Leisure: Blouse with tailored pants or skirt above the knee. Shoes being flat or low heeled.

3. TAILORING AND COMFORT OVER EVERYTHING ELSE

Any type of interview, make sure that you put some thought into the fit of your clothing. Wearing the right size makes getting dressed a lot easier—making a guess might end in clothes that are either too tight or too loose. Look for clothes that make you feel good about your size and also allow for a good range of movement.

Avoid: Anything over or undersized, and clothes that show too much skin.

Do: Wear clothes that fit your body shape and make you feel confident.

4. ADD ACCESSORIES, BUT DON’T OVERDO IT

Accessories should fit the outfit, and not the other way around. When it comes to jewellery, keep it simple and professional. Also, remember to steer clear of obnoxious pieces that draw too much attention such as large earrings and chunky necklaces. Instead, go for simple watches, stud earrings, or thin necklaces.

5. TAKE CARE OF YOUR GROOMING

Your grooming should be on point, and should not be overly stylized. Always ensure that your hair is clean, groomed, and away from your face. If you wear makeup, it should be subtle. Make sure that your nails are clean and trimmed. Stay away from overpowering perfumes or colognes.

6. SHOES NEED TO BE CLEAN AND POLISHED

People tend to notice shoes first, so it is wise to keep them clean, polished, and job appropriate. Men will usually look best in dress shoes or loafers and women in closed toe heels or flats.

7. HOW YOU USE COLOUR CAN AFFECT YOU FITNESS

Colour affects people's perception of you, so choose carefully. Navy and grey suggest you are professional and confident, whereas black gives a more formal and authoritative look. White, along with light blue, makes people perceive you as clean, trustworthy and friendly. Red, on the other hand, suggests bold energies, so try to use it sparingly.

8. USE FILTERS OF A DIFFERENT LENS FOR ATTIRE

No matter how casual the company seems to be, I would still suggest that a t-shirt, pair of sneakers, or jeans not be worn for an interview unless stated otherwise. It is always ethical to overdress for a given occasion rather than underdress.

9. APPROACH ATTIRE DIFFERENTLY AND FOLLOW DRESS CODE

What you wear can greatly affect your feelings. If your outfit is make you feel more confident, then your body language and mannerisms will reflect that. You will not only be looking the part but feeling the part is an added bonus. 

10. LAST FEW POINTERS

Do consider the weather: Make sure you have the right clothes for the time of year, but also use your common sense. For colder weather make sure to put on a stylish coat that will keep you warm.

A professional bag or portfolio did not have to be fancy but should be able to hold a few basic pieces like a resume, pen, notebook, etc.

Back up plan: If dress code is strict or even semi-strict, having an outfit that is formal is always better than a casual one.

CONCLUSION

Your choice of attire mostly speaks for you at an interview long before you even begin to speak. Furthermore, putting on the right outfit shows that you have respect for the company and also makes you feel a lot more confident in yourself. Always remember to personalize your clothing according to the company in question, make sure your clothing is well-fitted, and keep grooming as well as accessories on the lower side. You are now set to make the best impression possible with the right outfit.

Best of luck in your interview!