Women’s Professional Attire Style Guide: What to Wear to a Job Interview

First impressions last forever. And while it’s true that a book shouldn’t be judged by its cover, people are more likely to read it if it looks appealing and inviting. Unfortunately, the same goes for people and how they look. Besides the look, 5 seconds aren’t enough for anything else. Knowing this, many people feel nervous when preparing for a job interview. They know that the first impression they make is crucial for getting the job and setting the base for further relations if they get the job. And even though job interviews last longer and there are other cards you can play on, dressing properly will only help you succeed.

When deciding what to wear to a job interview, you must do your research first. What do you know about the organisation or the company? What are their values and norms? Is there a required dress code? This is information you can gather from visiting their website or social media profiles. Pictures can tell much and if you know someone who works there or has been to a similar setting interview lately, don’t be afraid to ask. After you’re done with your research, you’re ready for your next task – managing the dressing choices. This is the ultimate guide to help you decide on the job interview attire, applied to almost every dress code and working environment.

What to Wear to a Professional Business Interview?

Most corporate businesses today, being impacted by all the changes happening in the world, have a business casual dress code, meaning things aren’t as formal as they were a couple of years ago. However, there are still many corporates that require a business formal dress code. The best thing to do when going to an interview in a business environment is to stick to the professional attire for women. Dress codes vary, but if there’s one required, stick to it.

For a business formal setting, make sure to go with the staple pieces of professional attire for women, such as pantsuit, pencil skirt or dress pants and a simple button-down shirt or blouse. When it comes to colours, you can never go wrong with a black and white combination, but navy blue and dark grey are also great colour options. For example, the navy-blue blazer is lately considered a staple piece of business attire for women with endless styling options acceptable for business formal. Combined with a simple blouse or button-down shirt in a neutral colour and dress pants or a pencil skirt in khaki it makes the perfect business look for making a bold first impression. Another option is a knee-length black dress worn with tights and black high heels.

While business casual gives more freedom and choice, it includes the same business formal pieces worn differently. Don’t be afraid to experiment. For example, instead of picking a black or navy classic cut blazer, go for a grey collarless one with ¾-length sleeves. For even a dressier look, go for a menswear-inspired khaki blazer with a matching skirt or navy chino pants. Women’s corporate wear pieces like blouses and button-down shirts don’t have to be boring. You can experiment with fabrics and colours, but try preserving a tasteful and professional look. Opt for a modest neckline, avoiding showing cleavage as it doesn’t send the right message. Blouses with details like bow make, paired with a skinny waist belt for a touch of detail makes a perfect business casual look. Another option is a statement dress in an interesting colour, like deep red. Since the dress itself makes a statement, there’s no need for jewellery or other accessories. Don’t be afraid of subtle prints too, and always make sure the whole look is modest, not attention-seeking.

What to Wear to a Casual/Informal Interview?

When a company doesn’t require a business dress code, it usually means you can dress more casually for a job interview. So, how should you dress for a job interview in that case? Well, dressing for a job interview isn’t the same as dressing for a date. According to research, recruiters reported that 75% of the candidates have worn too casual of attire to an interview. So, when you’re not sure of the dress code, it always helps to dress up a little. That way you can avoid being dressed too casually. Now, casual may look different for everybody but these are some basic guidelines to be followed.

• Leggings, pyjamas, wrinkled clothing, hoodies, and t-shirts are all too casual for a job interview;
• Avoid wearing too tight and ripped clothes. Anything that shows too much skin should be off the table, as it’s not considered professional. You can wear colourful clothes but make sure not to be flashy, wearing too bright or neon clothes. Neutral colours are always the best choice;
• Jeans are acceptable, just make sure they’re clean-cut, not ripped. Dark wash jeans make a more professional look than lighter ones;
• When choosing accessories, make sure you go for timeless pieces that never go out of style, like watches and simple necklaces and/or earrings. Going wild with over accessorising and chunky pieces won’t do you a favour in terms of getting the job. Beanies and other hats, as well as earphones hanging out from your neck, aren’t acceptable either, contributing to the sloppy and casual look you want to avoid;
• Another thing to consider when preparing for a job interview is make-up. If you decide on wearing make-up, go for a nude look, in earthy colours or pastels. Avoid heavy looks with being obvious wearing a lot of make-up. Avoid putting too much perfume as well.

These are some dos and don’ts that can help you style the best look for your job interview. Make sure to follow them and you’ll set yourself up for success, putting an end to the job hunt and getting the job you dream of.