Landing an interview for your dream job can be overwhelming. Answering questions poorly, being late, and wondering if you’re the right fit top the list of every applicant’s concerns.  Choosing what to wear might add to your pre-interview jitters, knowing too well that some first impressions last.

Wearing the right interview attire shows that you’re serious about the opportunity and willing to work to present yourself in the best possible light. Dressing well can also boost your confidence, translating to better performance during the interview.

So, let’s get down to brass tacks and discuss how to create a positive impression just by wearing the right clothing.

Decoding the Dress Code 

It’s crucial to follow the dress code to respect the company and the interview process. The code can vary depending on the industry and the company culture, but there are some general guidelines.

Dress Code #1: Business Professional 

This is the most formal dress code, typically reserved for law firm, corporate, or finance roles. It involves a tailored suit, a crisp dress shirt, a coordinating tie, and polished shoes.

Tailored Suit 

Ill-fitting clothes can make even the most expensive suit look sloppy. Invest in a classic, single-breasted suit in a neutral color like navy, charcoal, or black. Get it tailored for a clean, polished look. Avoid bold patterns or trendy cuts – you want to project professionalism, not create fashionista vibes.

Don a White or Light-Colored Long-Sleeve Shirt 

Crisp white dress shirts are always a safe choice. Light blue or neutral tones also work well. Opt for long sleeves and avoid anything too loud, such as patterned and floral prints. Pick natural fibers like wool, cotton, and linen, which are breathable and hold their shape throughout the day.

No.1 from Von Baer

Choose a Leather Briefcase 

In most cases, a real leather briefcase will elevate your professional appearance and help you start your interview in a good light. If you can afford it, choose one made from full-grain leather (Von Baer makes a great range).

Premium leather is always a great choice for professionals as it lasts long and gets better over time. Full-grain leather, for instance, is known for its extreme durability and resilience against wear and tear. It also ages beautifully, developing a beautiful patina over time.

Wear a Polished Pair of Dress Shoes 

This is where your shoes shine, literally. Polished leather dress shoes like oxfords, derbies, or loafers are ideal for business professional interviews.

Take Out Your Favorite Tie 

A tie adds a touch of formality. Choose a conservative color and pattern—solid colors, stripes, or small polka dots are good options. Avoid anything too flashy or distracting.

Dress Code #2: Business Casual 

This is a step down from full business professional but still polished and put-together. Tech companies, startups, and many creative fields fall under this category. You can ditch the suit here unless the interview confirmation hints at a more formal setting.

Wear a Collared Shirt and Tailored Trousers  

Opt for tailored slacks in neutral tones, like khakis or dark wash chinos. Pair them with a collared button-down shirt and dress shoes. Make sure they’re wrinkle-free and fit well—no saggy or overly baggy styles.

Buy A Premium Leather Bag 

A briefcase may be too formal for these types of interviews, but that doesn’t mean you can’t wear leather bags. Investing in a professional leather bag for business casual interviews is a smart move. Here’s a great information source if you’re wondering how to find one.

Prepare Your Nicest Pair of Loafers 

For business casual settings, loafers or dressy sneakers can work, but make sure they’re clean and in good condition. Avoid scuffed shoes or athletic sneakers at all costs.

Dress Code #3: Casual 

This is the least formal category, typically found in creative or laid-back workplaces. This dress code is less common for interviews but still plausible.

Choose A Pair of Jeans and Shoes in Great Condition 

Here, dark wash jeans, a well-fitting T-shirt layered under a blazer, and clean sneakers or loafers are acceptable. Chinos or khakis, a polo or collared shirt, and loafers can also work their magic.

Studies have shown that people tend to judge an individual’s goals, motives, and social bracket by how they dress. So, unless you’re absolutely certain about the company culture, err on the side of caution and dress a step more formally.

Accessories and Grooming

Now that you’ve got a handle on the dress codes, let’s dive into the details that can take your interview look from good to great. It’s time to focus on the little things that can make a big difference. Here’s how to accessorize and groom for an impactful interview:

Belt

Your belt should match the color of your shoes. For example, a black belt with black shoes is best. A simple leather belt is best.

Watch

A classic watch adds a touch of sophistication. Avoid anything too chunky or sporty.

Socks

Opt for solid-colored dress socks that coordinate with your pants or shoes. Avoid loud patterns or mismatched socks.

Hairstyle

Keep your hair neat and trimmed. Avoid overly trendy or distracting styles.

Facial Hair

If you have facial hair, keep it well-groomed. A clean shave is always a safe option, but a neatly trimmed beard can also work.

Cologne

A light spritz of cologne is okay, but avoid anything overpowering. You don’t want your interviewer to be knocked out by your fragrance before introducing yourself.

A good rule of thumb when accessorizing is to add a touch of sophistication without going overboard. This holds true whether you’re being interviewed directly by your prospective employer or an IT recruitment firm if you’re a tech professional.

Before stepping out the door, give yourself a once-over in the mirror. Is everything clean, wrinkle-free, and polished? Are your shoes shined and your hair neat? These small details can influence your overall presentation.

The Final Touch

Dressing well for an interview creates a positive first impression, but communicating what you can bring to the table is more important. When you look good, you feel more confident showing your stellar skills, experience, and personality. These tips can help you walk into an interview feeling like you’re the whole package. So, go out there, get ready to impress, and seize that dream job.