What to wear to a job interview: Go-to outfits to help you get hired
Deciding what to wear to a job interview? Here are some great outfit ideas
First impressions matter and whether it's face-to-face or via Zoom, knowing what to wear to a job interview isn't always easy.
Meeting someone for the first time is always a little nerve wracking and if you're vying for a new job role, then the stakes are pretty high. First impressions are unfortunately made quickly, so when it comes to job interview outfits, you want to get it right first time. To help alleviate the pressure, we’ve put together the ultimate guide to what to wear to a job interview, to help put a stop to that sartorial meltdown.
And regardless of what you choose to wear, our one top tip is to prep your outfit and have everything you plan to take with you ready the night before. It may seem like such a small thing, but having everything, ironed, hung and packed (if taking any kind of laptop or portfolio) will mean you can rest easy and leave unhurried the next morning. Don't forget to set your alarm!
What to wear to a job interview: As recommended by our experts
Stuck for inspo? We've pulled together the best fail-safe job interview outfit combos to kick-start your wardrobe and your new career.
1. Blazer + almost anything
The best blazers for women are a wardrobe essential, as they have the ability to make any outfit feel instantly pulled together.
Looking to learn how to style a blazer with added polish? Stick to a muted color palette of black, grey, and navy. Anything too bright, and you run the risk of looking unprofessional. Go matchy-matchy with co-ordinating tailored trousers, give dresses and silky skirts a masculine spin with an oversized blazer or sharpen up a plain jumpsuit with a interesting jacket - the outfit options are endless! Look to timeless prints such as checks and opt for double-breasted designs if you want it extra smart.
Our fashion editor recommends…
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RRP: $119.99 / £69.99 | This double-breasted linen blazer is a minimalistic design that can be worn all year. In soft grey, it will team with nearly everything, retaining a refined and polished look.
RRP: $59.99 / £34.99 | A white skirt is an capsule wardrobe staple, and this one from Scandinavian clothing brand H&M will look good dressed up or down. Pair with boots or comfortable flats for a cool yet chic look.
2. Midi Dress + Heels
It’s important to look smart for a job interview, but you also want your outfit to be a reflection of your personality. After all, if you feel uncomfortable in a new suit, it’ll show. Instead, opt for something a little closer to your comfort zone, and as long as it’s modest and smart, it’ll fit the bill. The best midi dresses will make interview dressing a breeze.
Falling between the knee and ankle, tailored midi dresses are the perfect length for job interviews and look great with pointed flats, heeled boots or Mary Janes. The best shirt dresses often come in a midi length and are a smart choice for an interview-ready outfit. Stick to muted tones and classic prints to ensure your outfit enhances your interview technique, without overshadowing it.
For job interviews in the winter, pair your dress with a blazer and a pair of the best winter boots, and swap out boots for pretty pointed flats in the summer months.
Our fashion editor recommends…
RRP: $200 / £165 | One of the most stylish dresses to hide a tummy, this empire line cut silhouette will skim your silhouette for a flattering and feminine finish. The micro floral print is understated and we love the subtle injection of color too.
RRP: $85 / £69 | A shirt dress is a chic and formal choice for a job interview and this navy hue is a welcome change from classic black iterations. With a self-fabric tie belt, to help enhance your silhouette, we love the metallic button detailing.
RRP: $89 / £70 | While the shoe trends 2022 might look tempting, when it comes to a job interview, play it safe and opt for a pair you've already worn in, as the last thing you want is to risk tripping or walk uncomfortably into an office.
3. Pencil Skirt + Blouse
Much like the fail-safe midi dress, a pencil skirt falls at just the right length. They are instantly smart, even dark denim variations if your job isn't in a corporate field. Team with a tucked-in blouse or shirt for a flattering silhouette and play with textures such as leather and silk for an extra luxe touch. Pencil skirts work best with heels but you can keep it comfy and opt for a low kitten heel or mule.
Our fashion editor recommends…
RRP: $349 / £269 | Incredibly chic and sophisticated this pencil skirt is sure to help boost your confidence. Pair with a tucked in blouse to enhance an hourglass body shape, and keep your outfit neutral by finishing with a camel coat in cooler months.
RRP: $187 / £135 | It's fine to inject some personality into your look, so feel free to subtly embrace the fashion trends 2022, with a nod to big collar details. This smart Ganni blouse will look great tucked into high waisted silhouettes for a feminine finish.
4. Suit
Take the trusty blazer up a notch and team with matching tailored trousers for a sleek head-to-toe look. Layer over your best shirt or a fine roll neck in the winter and stick to a pared-back palette of navy, brown and cream. If you want to inject some personality to the look, you can add a shoe in a bolder hue or one of the best designer bags.
Our fashion editor recommends…
RRP: $89.90 / £69.99 | Spanish clothing brand, Zara knows how to provide luxury on a budget, and this rust colored blazer is perfect for those who want to look extra stylish. Pair with the matching trousers, or throw on over a neutral tailored dress.
RRP: $59.90 / £32.99 | Worn alone these silky trousers are ideal for weekends or grabbing heading out for a coffee. Paired with the matching blazer they're transformed into a smart style and with a comfortable elastic waist, you'll feel as good as you look.
RRP: $69 / £49 | The best sweaters are ideal for layering and can offer a softer finish to a tailored look. A job interview outfit staple, this merino wool sweater can be paired with trousers, skirts or under midi dresses for added warmth in the winter.
5. Wide-leg trousers + Shirt
When planning what to wear to a job interview, test out your final choices in both a seated and standing positing to ensure your look won't crease too heavily and ensure items are comfortable. Nothing is more awkward for an interviewer and interviewee than clothing that has to be constantly tugged and readjusted.
Wide-leg trousers are universally flattering, particularly in high-waisted styles. With the abilities to skim thighs, shape midriffs and elongate legs, they're an excellent choice when you need to feel and look your best. Keep to a tonal color palette such as blue, grey, white or camel for a chic style that also offers a touch of brightness.
Our fashion editor recommends…
RRP: $130 / £90 | Linen trousers are ideal for the summer and this smart pair is available in both petite and tall lengths. The striking pattern will lengthen your silhouette, while the cheery coloring gives a nod to the fashion color trends 2022.
RRP: $98.50 / £125 | Pair a fitted top with a wide leg to help balance your proportions. This slim fit, cotton shirt will be cool and breathable in warm weather and can be worn again as part of you summer outfits for work once you bag the job.
What not to wear to a job interview
Worried about making a fashion faux pas? We’ve broken down the pieces to avoid when deciding what to wear to an interview...
- Ill-fitting clothing: Too big, too small, too long, too short - anything that needs regular adjusting and will cause you to fiddle when you’re nervous is a no-go. In the best-case scenario, it’ll only distract you. But worst case, the interviewer will notice too.
- Short hemlines or plunging necklines: There’s enough to worry about during a job interview without the impending fear of a wardrobe malfunction. You never know if there might be a task too, so midi lengths and high necklines are best.
- Uncomfortable shoes: You want to stride into an interview with confidence - not limp on your poor, blistered feet. Interview day is not the time to wear a new pair for the first time - wear them in beforehand.
- Flip flops or sliders: We know we said your shoes need to be comfortable, but that doesn’t give the green light for throwing on a pair of flip-flops. Go for a closed-toe shoe for a professional feel.
- Sportswear: Swap the best hoodies, joggers, and trainers for a neat blouse, tailored trousers, and a pair of pumps.
- Hats: It’s traditionally considered impolite to wear a hat inside, so in case your interviewer is a stickler for etiquette, leave yours at home.
Can you wear jeans to a job interview?
Of course, it depends on the nature of the job you’re applying for, but as a general rule wearing even your best jeans to an interview is a big no-no.
Dressing too casually can backfire, with the interviewer getting the impression that you’re not keen enough on the role to make an effort. Putting on a smart outfit head-to-toe, as it will put you in the right mindset and it won't send you into a panic if you suddenly have to stand up mid-interview!
If you do think that jeans might be appropriate for a particular interview, make sure they’re dark indigo or black, with a skinny or straight leg. Relaxed, boyfriend fit, or light wash jeans will feel too casual.
What shoes to wear for an interview
When choosing what to wear for an interview, don't forget to pick the correct pair of shoes. Generally speaking, you want to make sure your shoes are smart, in good shape and of course clean to help give the best first impression. You can also opt for boots for an interview, such as a smart pair of the best Chelsea boots.
Pointed pumps are a great style choice for an interview, as they offer all the leg-lengthening benefits of a pair of heels but none of the pain. Choose yours in nude or cream to max out your cost-per-wear—hopefully in your new job!
If you would prefer to wear heels to an interview, make sure they're smart and also a pair that you can easily walk in so that you can concentrate on acing your interview instead of any pain or wobbles that heels might induce.
Brands to consider when deciding what to wear to a job interview
Reiss
Originally launched as a men’s tailoring brand, Reiss knows a thing or two about what makes a well-fitting work wardrobe. Its palette is always muted - think creams, greys, and pinks - making them easy to mix and match with other pieces in your wardrobe.
Boden
Browse Boden for a personality-packed take on classic pieces. Expect vibrant jewel tones and luxe fabrics. Add one of its silky, patterned blouses to a simple black suit for extra style points.
Marks & Spencer
There’s rarely a fashion problem British clothing brand, M&S can’t solve, keeping us covered for all occasions. Thanks to a reliable work-wear line, it’s a great place to shop affordable, interview-ready pieces. The M&S Collection range is more classic, with Autograph and Per Una covering more trend-led styles.
Jess Beech is an experienced fashion and beauty editor, with more than eight years experience in the publishing industry. She has written for woman&home, GoodtoKnow, Now, Woman, Woman’s Weekly, Woman’s Own and Chat, and is a former Deputy Fashion & Beauty Editor at Future PLC. A beauty obsessive, Jess has tried everything from cryotherapy to chemical peels (minus the Samantha in Sex and The City-worthy redness) and interviewed experts including Jo Malone and Trinny Woodall.
- Amelia YeomansSenior writer
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