What To Wear to an Interview: A Guide for Women

Heading into a job interview can make you feel a range of emotions: excited, nervous, giddy. What you definitely want to be feeling, though, is prepared. There are many ways you can prepare for an interview to help you feel calm while leaving a dramatic impact. 

The right outfit can not only boost your confidence while you answer interview questions, but it can help to make a great first impression on the recruiter or hiring manager. At OnPost, we want to help you curate the perfect attire for the perfect interview.

Why Is the Right Interview Attire Important?

When interviewing for a new position, your attire can make a major difference. Especially in professional environments, what you wear says a lot about you as a job candidate. 

Even if you’re just going for the smart casual look, the ideal outfit can show that you put time and energy into your attire and therefore take your application seriously. The wrong outfit could potentially lead interviewers to distrust your judgment. That’s why it’s better to choose classic interview clothes rather than something trendy.

Your attire is also representative of your work ethic as an employee. Are you thorough and meticulous? Do you put effort into the work you do? Do you take your job seriously? These are all questions that can be silently answered with the proper clothing.

What Not To Wear During Your Job Search

Before we talk more about what you should wear to an interview, let’s cover what you might want to avoid.

If it feels too casual and not enough business casual, it likely is. You want to avoid things like jeans, cutoffs, t-shirts, flip flops, tank tops, and athleticwear. Some companies, like tech startups, tend to have more lax dress codes. Even in the case of a casual interview or a relaxed work environment, you still want to elevate your wardrobe to show your commitment.

 

The Basics on How To Dress for Success

Opt for a cardigan, button-down shirt, pantsuit, or even a suit jacket to make a good impression at your next job interview. In addition, if you anticipate that your company culture will be more formal, remove any piercings and cover any visible tattoos.

You also want to prioritize your comfort. If you’re in pain from ill-fitting clothing or shoes, it will affect your entire demeanor. Comfortable shoes and loose (but not too loose-fitting) clothing are both solid choices.

While we are advocates for wearing dynamic clothing, you will want to ensure that your clothes are neither too distracting nor too revealing. Opt for one statement piece and clothing that is more stately than playful. If the interview is remote, consider how your attire will look over Zoom.

If you’re questioning an article of clothing, make the reliable choice and skip it. When in doubt, leave it out! 

What Types of Clothes Should I Wear?

In general, you can rely on these items and styles that typically fall under the umbrella of all dress codes, such as:

• Dress Pants
• Blouses
• Dress shirts
• Darker colors like black or navy blue
• Knee-length skirts or dresses
• Dress shoes: Loafers or Oxfords
• High heels
• A semi-formal jacket or blazer

 

The right outfit can go to show that you can and will follow the company’s dress code policy before they even inform you of what it is. 

Optimal Fabric Choices 

The material of your clothing matters. You want to be comfortable while maintaining a professional aura. Popular business trends include a breathable and breezy (but not sheer) material that keeps you cool and relaxed. 

Come summertime, short sleeves and a midi skirt or a dress made from lighter materials like rayon or silk would be a safe bet. If it’s cold, dress as you would for an interview on an average day and layer up — peacoats and trench coats are effortlessly chic.

That way, you won’t find yourself uncomfortable once you are in a more moderate climate in the building. If it’s raining on the day of, wear shoes that will keep traction in the water (and bring an umbrella, of course!). 

 

Interview Apparel Options for Women: Top Picks

Blouses

You can never go wrong with a simple yet elegant solid-colored button-down blouse like the Camisera Lucia. Paired with the right pants and a belt, you have a reliable ensemble that is sleek, comfortable, and looks sharp. 

If your personal style is more colorful, we recommend a patterned top, such as the Pamela blouse or the Donna silk blouse.

If you’re in a warmer climate, a short-sleeved blouse may be preferable. While still professional, an ornately-detailed short-sleeved blouse will keep you cool and comfortable while looking the part.

Pants

A crisp Palazzo-type slack is always a go-to for any workplace environment. You can never go wrong with khaki and black. 

However, some women might prefer to transform a statement piece like the Blaise pants into a polished but expressive essential. When working with patterns, try balancing a solid-colored top with patterned pants, or vice versa.

Skirts

When we think of skirts in the workplace, we tend to imagine wool pencil skirts. While these are great examples of business-appropriate office wear, they’re not the only skirt to fall into that category.

Maxi skirts can be dressed up with a blouse for a flawless look. Midi skirts also have plenty of potential for accentuating the ultimate outfit. Pair a midi skirt with a blouse and a jacket, and step out in confidence.

Dresses

Arguably the easiest article of clothing to use for your interview outfit is a dress, getting both the top and bottom out of the way simultaneously. When picking out the best dress, we recommend knee-length or longer.

You can never go wrong with an elegant black dress, but if your style is more colorful and poppy, something like the Magnolia Dress may be more in line with your personal aesthetic.

 

Shoes

Picking out the shoe is critical for a few different reasons. You want to choose something comfortable but that also looks sophisticated. 

If you’re comfortable in heels, perhaps try something elegant and professional like the open-toe Danet heels. If you’d prefer something flat, you can never go wrong with a pair of loafers.

Sandals are a bit more tricky because while some are appropriate, others, like flip flops, are way too casual for a work environment. 

Accessories

While accessories aren’t necessary for an interview, they’re certainly an easy way to add elegance and flair to your style. Adding a timeless belt to a pair of trousers and a blouse instantly enhances your outfit.

A statement necklace or earrings can enhance neutral outfits. And if you want something subtle, minimalist jewelry can add just enough polish to take your outfit the extra mile. 

Fashion Advice Is Career Advice

Applying for a new job can be daunting; we understand that and want to help you glide through that process as confidently and stylishly as possible.

OnPost strives to supply you with the best clothing to feel assured, comfortable, and prepared. From simple and elegant to eclectic yet professional, we’re here to help you feel as confident and powerful as you look.

 

Sources:

What Is the Importance of Appearance on a Job Interview? | Chron

What Is Proper Business Casual Attire? | Business News Daily

Interview Attire for Women That Makes a Best Impression | The Balance Careers