With business casual and interview outfits taking over TikTok, Gen Z is driving a fresh wave of fashion-conscious choices for the workplace. But while your personal style matters, a job interview still calls for a certain level of polish. The first impression you make is powerful—and dressing appropriately can make or break it. Employers expect professionalism, even if they embrace creativity.
Figuring out what to wear to an interview comes with a few gray areas. Here’s everything you need to know about proper interview attire—including what works best for different types of interviews, frequently asked questions, and how to dress to make your best impression.
Why job interview apparel matters
Visual communication speaks volumes. Think about it from your future employee's perspective. In their eyes, proper interview attire shows respect for the company, the interviewer, and the role itself.
“Dressing sharply demonstrates commitment and helps set the tone for the kind of environment you're aiming to contribute to or create,” says salon owner Rachel Voss. Think of job interview apparel as a part of your overall message; it reflects that you took the time to match your appearance to the expectations of the workplace.
You may be a Gen Z with a less traditional take on fashion, but the hiring managers evaluating you will most likely be from older generations, so keep that in mind to understand how crucial dressing for a job interview can be. Your outfit speaks before you do, setting a tone that can reinforce (or detract from) what you have to say. So, while your skills and qualifications matter most, what you wear is a powerful first step.
What to consider when choosing interview outfits
Choosing proper interview attire comes down to three main factors: the type of company, the role, and your personal style within professional limits. Here’s what to keep in mind when deciding what to wear to a job interview:
- Company culture: Research the company’s dress code. For example, tech startups may lean more casual, while corporate offices generally expect more formal wear.
- Job type: Some roles like client-facing or leadership positions might require a bit more polish, while creative or field roles could allow more flexibility. “For creative fields, a touch of personality through your outfit can be an asset,” Voss says. “It’s important to show you understand both the aesthetic and professional aspects of the job.”
- Personal style: You can absolutely infuse personality into your outfit, but remember that first impressions count. Opt for subtler choices that align with professional norms, like adding a single statement accessory rather than going all-out.
What to wear to an interview—by interview type
Different interviews call for different levels of formality. Below are some common outfits for interviews based on interview types, from in-person to virtual.
In-person interview: Business formal is still the gold standard
If you’re interviewing in person, you’re likely stepping into the company’s workspace, and dressing well shows you respect the environment. In most cases, business formal or business casual is the safest choice. Think of a well-tailored blazer, classic trousers or a skirt, and closed-toe shoes.
- Try this: If you’re wondering, “Can you wear a dress to an interview?” absolutely! Just keep it knee-length or longer, and pair it with a blazer for a polished look.
- Avoid this: Don’t wear anything overly casual, such as sneakers, shorts, or leggings.
Virtual interview: Still polished but a little more relaxed
For a virtual setting, you can scale down a bit—but not too much. You’re still meeting face-to-face (even if it’s over a screen), so opt for casual job interview attire. A nice button-up, sweater, or polo paired with tailored pants will give you a clean, professional look.
- Try this: Staying fully dressed helps keep you in a professional mindset. So, no pajama pants—even if they’re off-screen.
- Avoid this: Busy patterns or neon colors can look distracting on screen.
Casual or startup interview: Creative yet professional
Casual environments, like startups, may allow a little more freedom. Here, a well-coordinated business casual job interview look is a good choice. Think neat jeans or chinos with a sweater or a smart, well-fitted top. You still want to appear polished but can add a touch of personality.
- Try this: Neat jeans can be acceptable if they’re dark wash and free from rips.
- Avoid this: Overly casual items like baseball caps, sandals, or loud logos are a no-go.
Panel interview: Dress for the top role in the room
In panel interviews, you’re presenting yourself to multiple people, often of varying seniority. Opt for an outfit that’s versatile, such as a simple but well-cut suit or a classic blouse and skirt. Neutral tones and minimal accessories work best here to keep things professional and balanced.
- Try this: When in doubt, dress up a notch. Aim for a polished look that can suit the tastes of different personalities in the room. It's always better to be overdressed than underdressed.
- Avoid this: Flashy or overly trendy accessories might distract rather than impress.
Field or on-site interview: Practical meets professional
If you’re meeting at a job site, such as a construction project or an environmental field site, aim for a balance of safety and style. Opt for something practical but professional, like clean chinos, sturdy boots, and a button-up shirt. For medical or clinical roles, scrubs might be acceptable if you know that’s the norm.
- Try this: Always confirm with the recruiter or hiring manager if specialized attire (e.g., scrubs or boots) is needed.
- Avoid this: Heavy jewelry or open-toe shoes could be hazardous or inappropriate for the setting.
Makeup and hair for an interview
In summer 2024 we all got the mindful and demure message loud and clear. But there was some truth to that viral moment. For makeup and hair, go with a minimalist approach unless the role demands otherwise.
“Simple, well-thought-out styling ensures your skills and personality remain in focus, and it echoes the high standards you uphold in professional settings,” Voss says. “An understated and neat presentation allows your potential to shine through without distraction.”
Ready to dress up for your next interview? Browse 400,000+ open jobs on The Muse—one of them could be your perfect next career move »
What not to wear to an interview
You know the dos, now let's talk don'ts. Here are a few common mistakes to steer clear of:
- Overly casual clothes: Leave the flip-flops, shorts, and oversized tees at home.
- Loud or distracting colors: Stick with neutral or muted colors; neon and brights can be polarizing.
- Casual jeans and leggings: If the company leans casual, choose clean, dark-wash jeans, but avoid rips or an ultra-tight fit.
- Open-toed shoes or sandals: Closed-toe shoes are generally more professional, and they’re also a safer bet if you’re unsure of the dress code.
- Excessive jewelry or perfume: Keep it simple to avoid distractions or scents that may bother others.
Bottom line: What should you wear to an interview?
Figuring out the clothes to wear to an interview is as important as practicing your answers. Aim to look professional and polished, with a touch of personal style. With these tips, you’ll find the perfect outfit to make a strong, confident entrance and leave a lasting positive impression.
FAQs
Can you wear jeans to an interview?
It depends. For creative or startup roles, clean, dark jeans might be okay. However, for corporate or formal settings, it’s best to stick to pants or skirts.
What's an appropriate dress for an interview?
Dresses are perfectly suitable if they’re not too short or flashy. You might want to pair it with a blazer or structured cardigan to add professional polish.
Can you wear open-toed shoes to an interview? Can you wear sandals to an interview?
In most cases, closed-toe shoes are a safer choice, particularly in conservative or corporate settings.
Can I wear all black to an interview?
Absolutely—black is classic and always looks polished. Just avoid head-to-toe black if the company culture is more relaxed.
Can you wear scrubs to an interview?
If you’re interviewing in a medical setting where scrubs are the norm, this can be acceptable. Confirm with the recruiter to be sure.
Can you wear a hat to an interview?
Generally, hats aren’t recommended unless the company’s dress code explicitly allows them—or unless you’re wearing a hard hat on a construction site.
Can you wear a sweater to an interview?
Yes, a sweater can work well, especially for business casual settings. Opt for a fitted, solid-color sweater, and layer it over a button-down shirt, or pair it with tailored pants to keep it polished.
Can you wear leggings to an interview?
Leggings are generally not recommended unless they’re paired with a long top and it’s a very casual environment. For most interviews, it’s best to stick to structured pants or skirts.
Can I wear a polo to an interview?
A polo shirt can be suitable for certain casual or creative roles. Choose a well-fitted, solid-color polo and pair it with chinos or pants for a polished look.
Can I wear sneakers to an interview?
Sneakers can work in some casual or creative settings but should be clean and understated. For traditional corporate environments, stick to dress shoes or loafers for a more professional look.