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What to wear to a job interview: a rule for every dress code

What to wear to a job interview: match the company's level and go one step up. Includes outfit rules for office, casual and video interviews.

Baptiste Moreau3 min read

A blazer, shirt and trousers laid out on a bed ready for an interview
Image by 858265 from Pixabay

An interview outfit is not about style. It is about removing questions. If your clothes are clean, fit and match the place, nobody thinks about them.

This guide covers what to wear to a job interview for offices, shops, factories and video calls. If the employer gives dress guidance, follow it first.

The decision rule

Find out how they dress. Go one step above.

Look at the company's website, photos or social page. Ask the recruiter what staff wear. Then go one step smarter than that.

WorkplaceInterview outfit
Formal officeSuit or smart jacket with matching trousers or skirt
Business casualBlazer, shirt or blouse, smart trousers
Casual or creativeNeat trousers or dark jeans, clean top, jacket
Shop or serviceClean, smart version of the staff uniform
Trade or outdoorTidy work trousers, clean boots, plain shirt

Ruling: you can take a jacket off. You cannot put one on.

What goes on your body

  • Clothes that fit now, not "when I lose weight"
  • Shoes that are clean and comfortable
  • A bag or folder, not a plastic carrier
  • Light scent only, or none
A pair of polished shoes and a folder on a chair
Clean shoes and a folderImage by ds_30 from Pixabay

Video interviews

Wear the full outfit, not only the top half. Choose solid colours, since stripes can flicker on camera. Sit facing a window or a lamp. Test your camera in advance.

Test the outfit first

Wear the outfit for ten minutes at home. Sit, walk and reach. If it rides up, pulls or itches, change it. Then iron or steam it the day before.

Leave at home

  • Clothes you have never tried on
  • New shoes that rub
  • Strong perfume
  • A jacket that does not close

If it goes wrong

  • You arrive and everyone is more casual. Take the jacket off and carry on.
  • A spill on the way. Keep a stain wipe in your bag.
  • You are not sure of the dress code. Smart casual with a jacket works in most workplaces.

If you are travelling for the interview, the business trip packing list shows how to pack an outfit without creases. Our guide to smart casual vs business casual helps with unclear dress codes.

Quick questions

Should I wear a suit to every interview?

No. Match the workplace. A suit at a casual workplace can feel stiff.

Can I wear jeans to an interview?

Sometimes, if the workplace is casual and the jeans are dark and clean. Ask the recruiter.

What colours are safe?

Navy, grey, black and white are safe. Wear what you feel comfortable in.

What if I cannot afford new clothes?

Wear your cleanest, best-fitting outfit. Fit and cleanliness matter more than newness.

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