A very crucial part of securing a new job is first impressions. The first time an employer sees you they want to be impressed with how you present yourself because how you look on the outside reflects how you present yourself on the inside.
It can be hard to find the line between too formal and too casual, and many employers are looking for the perfect in-between.
Job interviews can be a daunting experience and it can be hard to know what you should wear, but you do not need to worry because we have curated a list of the best items of clothing to wear to an interview. We have come up with a formula to dress for success.
Table of Contents
Interview Wardrobe Staples
Blazer
A blazer is a staple piece that can be reused outside of interviews as well. A blazer matches will with most things, and can dress up the most simple items. Investing in a good blazer that fits you well, will help to elevate almost any outfit that you have.
A blazer will instantly take an outfit from casual to professional which is exactly what a job employer is looking for. The versatility of a blazer will provide you with an endless amount of options as to what you can wear to your interview.
You can pair it with a blouse, or button-down and even find matching bottoms like smart pants or a skirt. A blazer even looks good with a smart dress.
Button-down shirts are a great starting point when putting together your outfit for an interview. What can at first seem simple, can be a great layering piece that makes an outfit look more put together and professional.
A button-down shirt can be tucked into pants or a skirt for a more formal and smart look, and they can also be worn beneath a dress as an extra layer of coverage.
Another good way to wear a button-down shirt is beneath a smart jumper, with the collar sticking out – this creates a smart-casual look that will be perfect for an interview.
Blouse
Blouses are great because they can be so versatile and come in a variety of different styles and patterns. Choose a blouse with a loud print to stand out from those competing for your role, while still looking flawlessly smart and professional in the process.
Blouses create an elegant and feminine look and can be paired with most smart pants and skirts. They especially go well with pencil skirts, because both of the shapes of the garment complement one another.
Two-Piece Set
If you struggle to create an outfit that is cohesive and matches, then a good idea for you would be to invest in a two-piece set. Usually, this will consist of a top and bottom garment that match one another, making it easier for you to wear a matching outfit.
When clothes are cohesive it makes you look more put together which is crucial for an interview. Remember – how you look on the outside reflects how you are within.
Some two-piece sets consist of a bottom garment and a jacket, to which you’d then just need to find a smart shirt that matches the color scheme, to pull together an all-around professional look. Use accessories and shoes in complementary colors to bring together the outfit as a whole.
Simple Black Dress With Tights
There is nothing easier to pull off than a simple black dress. Effortless and elegant, this outfit is guaranteed to make the right impression on potential employers.
Not only this, but you don’t have to worry about finding garments that are going to match perfectly because it is just one piece! Pair the dress with sheer black tights to provide more coverage and to look more professional in the workplace.
Sweater And Smart Pants
If you want to feel comfortable but still look smart and professional during your interview, try putting together smart dress trousers with a sweater. If you want to look more formal, add a collared shirt underneath the sweatshirt.
The sweatshirt and dress pants put together will give you a business-casual look that is still sophisticated but also relaxed.
Statement Dress
If you don’t have, or don’t want to wear a black dress to your interview, try one in a statement color instead. This will help you to stand out amongst everyone else, yet you will still look sophisticated and professional.
Of course, the dress should still be very form-fitting and not revealing. You can add tights if you feel you want to cover up more. Another fun way to spruce up this outfit is to add a waist belt to give you more shape.
V-Neck Sweater
This is another great alternative if you still want to feel comfortable during your interview, without sacrificing looking smart. A v-neck sweater pairs well with most bottoms, such as smart dress pants or a smart skirt.
The balance between the two garments will create a business casual feel that is perfect to impress your potential employers.
Knit Cardigan
Adding a knit cardigan to any outfit instantly creates a formal yet feminine look. Layer a cardigan over your blouse/dress/shirt to make you seem more approachable, while also adding a cute extra layer to the outfit that you are wearing.
You can wear a colored or patterned cardigan to make the most simple outfits stand out.
Make-Up and Hairstyles
As much as the clothes you wear for your interview are important, you mustn’t forget to pay attention to your hair and make-up. An excessive amount of make-up may look unprofessional, as well as if you leave your hair tangled and messy.
Presentation is key when it comes to first impressions.
What Not To Wear
First impressions are everything, and if you aren’t dressed suitably you are not going to impress anyone. You want to avoid wearing casual and lounge clothes such as joggers and hoodies.
You should also avoid low-cut tops and short skirts or dresses as if what you are wearing is too revealing it may take away from how professional you look to the employer. Also, do not wear shoes such as trainers, flip-flops, or other casual shoes.
