In the blink of an eye, you’re thrown into the real world and you don’t have the slightest clue about what to wear as you interview for your dream job. Is this outfit too plain? Is that outfit too flashy? What would my parents wear?
Every company has their own dress code—business casual or business professional. Typically, an interview requires formal business attire. Understanding the difference between what classifies as business casual or business professional, however, is essential before diving into the interview.
Dressing the part makes a lasting impression on a potential employer, so it is crucial to make the best possible first impression. The most important element when deciding what to wear is the selection’s fit. Nothing is worse than a suit that is too tight or a dress that gapes at the top.
Before the interview, you should assess the company’s dress code by contacting whoever reached out to you for the interview. You could also ask the company’s current employees about what they wear on an average day. Chances are they were in the same shoes as you and it might be less intimidating to ask a worker rather than your prospective employer. For a business formal look, a black, grey or navy-blue suit works best. Pair it with a white button-down shirt and any neutral color tie to complete the professional look. If you decide to wear a black suit, avoid wearing a blue tie. Black suits match best with a grey, black or maroon tie. A navy suit looks best with a navy or grey tie.
Match the non-navy-blue suit with black dress shoes and a black belt and the navy suit with brown dress shoes and a brown belt. Depending on the setting, a briefcase can top off the outfit
A black blazer over a neutral colored dress is also appropriate for business professional attire. If you want a professional look, a blazer with a skirt no higher than knee level and dress shirt is simple, yet classy. A black, grey, navy or beige pantsuit is equally suitable. Accessorize with neutral colored heels or flats and non-flashy jewelry to add a nice touch.
Business casual is also a common work dress code but interviews don’t typically request it. For a business casual look, the most sensible option is a button-down shirt and khakis. If you prefer to wear a suit jacket or blazer, you can wear it with a ribbed knit polo, cardigan or an autumn colored crew neck and dress pants.
Although clothes for an interview may seem costly, it’s absolutely possible to look your best without breaking the bank.
Kohl’s has suits for as low as $99.99 and dress shirts and tie sets that are regularly on sale. Walmart has quality dress shirts, dress pants, dress shoes, ties and accessories. Forever 21 and Charlotte Russe have dresses, skirts and blazers within a reasonable price range.
For a briefcase, Amazon has a wide selection starting at just $35. If the stores above aren’t a feasible option, The Department of Career Development in Erwin Hall has a rentable career closet with all the items you need to complete your interview look.
While dressing for an interview is only one of many components to finding your dream job, it is a crucial step in the process. Dressing professionally can truly make a difference.