What to Wear to a Job Interview: Essentials to Outfit You in Confidence From Head to Toe

They say to dress for the job you want, but what does that really mean in today’s fast-paced professional environment? No two businesses are going to have the same working environment and dress code; in fact, many businesses don’t have a specific dress code at all! That’s where your fashion sense has room to shine. With our collection of work-appropriate fashion, you can go into any job interview feeling confident that you look your best.

Let’s be clear: Your skill set, qualifications, winning personality, and all-around badassery are what will ultimately land you the gig, but making a stellar first impression on the interviewer is imperative–and that starts with a great interview outfit. Your look is the first thing he or she sees, and in those initial moments, you want to project confidence, competence, and poise–all the qualities that make you the best candidate for the job. In other words, dress to impress–always.

Ahead, we’ve put together a shopping list of interview clothes and accessories that will set you up for style success, so you can feel confident and ready to crush it!

1. A Chic Blouse

A stylish blouse is a great foundation for an interview outfit. In today’s business environment, many colors are acceptable; however, the interview isn’t necessarily the time to wear your loudest print or your brightest color. While prints on blouses are acceptable, you want to err on the conservative side of fashion when choosing your blouse.

Pastel colors, neutrals, and jewel tones will help you stand out without being too loud. You can also go for a blouse with a subtle print, like polka dots in a muted shade, or a geometric print with tonal colors. 

2. A Go-To Dress

When in doubt, a dress is a great choice for an interview. You don’t have to worry about whether or not it goes with your pants, and it’s very easy to bring a dress up or down to the level of business dress (business casual or business formal) with your choice of accessories and shoes.

For an interview, you want to make sure that your dress is knee-length, and you may want to pair it with a neutral blazer. This is especially true if you’re aiming for business formal. 

3. A Sleek Turtleneck

Channel your inner Steve Jobs with a turtleneck. Unless you’re interviewing in the heat of summer, a long-sleeve top looks elegant and exudes a cool, put-together nature. You can also use a sleeveless turtleneck under a blazer for a polished business look reminiscent of a suit. However, if it’s hot and you’re walking, long sleeves might not be ideal. 

You want to make sure that you don’t look hot, sweaty, or flustered– and that can be the exact result when you wear a turtleneck on a 90-degree day! Your interview clothes should be comfortable because that way you’ll feel comfortable and less stressed. 

4. A Tailored Blazer

The blazer is the wild card of the outerwear world. Casual enough to be worn on the weekends, but formal enough for business wear, a blazer can be dressed up, dressed down, and worn almost anywhere.

For a job interview, you can wear one over a solid-colored dress, blouse, or shell. Pair it with a professional skirt or trousers and top it off with some elegant, understated jewelry for a sophisticated look perfect for the professional world.

5. A Stylish Midi Skirt

When you’re at a job interview, you don’t want to wear anything too short, but a maxi skirt can also look out of place. Enter the midi skirt, a stylish middle-length option that’s perfect for your interview.

Whether you choose an A-line skirt, a pencil skirt, or another style of skirt, a fashionable midi skirt is a great choice. You can pair it with an elegant blouse or a shell and blazer combo for a tasteful, sophisticated interview outfit.

6. Timeless Trousers

Many consider jeans too casual of a look to wear to a job interview. If you want to wear pants, go for a pair of sleek trousers.

Trousers look sophisticated and timeless, and a straight leg is flattering on virtually all body shapes and sizes. Pair them with tasteful pumps or closed-toe wedges and you’ve got a look ready to go for any job interview.

7. A Classic Coat

Don’t forget that your outerwear should look just as good as your interview outfit! If your interviewer is going to see it at any time, your coat should be just as professional as what you wear underneath it.

An interview isn’t the place for your trendy teddy bear or puffer jacket. Instead, choose a classic cut like a trench coat or double-breasted coat to enhance your outfit and keep you warm.

8.  Modern Pumps

Pumps and other closed-toe shoes are ideal for interviews. You can amp up your interview outfit with a pair of pumps that’s a bit more modern than the classic shoe style.

In today’s business world, you often have some leeway to be a bit more creative with your shoes. The most important element is that the shoes you wear to an interview are comfortable and supportive–if you can’t walk in them, don’t wear them. Modern, stylish pumps can provide the support you need with the look you want.

9. Chunky Loafers

If you don’t want to wear heels to your interview, but want the extra height to make your pants look perfect, hop on the chunky loafer trend. Platform and flatform shoes are a great way to complete your interview outfit. Platform loafers and Mary Janes play with classic designs to create a look that is both modern and timeless all at once; perfect for your interview.  

10. Simple Jewelry

The goal is to look polished and put together for a job interview. Little touches like subtle jewelry can go a long way, but you don’t want to wear anything too loud and distracting– you want the interviewer to focus on what you have to say, not what you’re wearing.

Simple, elegant jewelry is ideal for giving your look that final touch without being overwhelming or distracting. Leave your statement necklaces and cocktail rings at home; for a job interview, you want your jewelry to play a supporting role instead of stealing the show.

11. A Carryall Bag

A big carryall bag can help you feel prepared and ready for anything. You can fit so much in a bigger bag– a water bottle, emergency supplies, even an extra blouse, just in case! Big bags don’t have to be bulky or inelegant; there are lots of chic, interview-ready tote options available that will add just the right touch to your interview outfit. 

12. Luxe Hair Accessories

Your hair is one of the first things that interviewers see as they look at you, so make sure that it’s the perfect frame for your face! No matter how you style your hair, you can add a chic finishing touch with luxe hair accessories. Details like metallic finishes or rich materials like velvet can add elegance and class to your hairstyle, making a great impression on your interviewer.