Deciding what to wear for an interview can be hard.
Should you dress smartly or comfortably? Can you wear accessories or bright colours? And what happens if the weather is terrible on the day?
Here are our top tips to dress to impress.
Look polished and professional
A smart suit is the safe choice for most interviews. It looks professional for all ages and genders – and you can add or remove a jacket depending on the weather.
Wear trousers or a knee-length skirt and make sure your clothes are freshly washed and ironed. For shoes, choose something smart or comfortable. Never wear trainers or sandals – and avoid too-high heels.
Think about personal grooming
Basic personal hygiene is essential for interviews. It will help you look presentable – and make you feel more confident.
Brush your teeth before you leave the house. If you have a snack or drink on your way, chew some gum before you go in to keep your breath fresh. Remember to take it out before the interview!
You should also make sure your hair and nails are clean. If it is rainy or windy on your way to the interview, find somewhere to neaten up before you go in. Pack a small comb or makeup (if you wear it) to make sure you go in feeling your best.
Comfort is key
You want to feel comfortable during your interview. Fidgeting in your seat because your clothes or shoes do not fit properly will make it hard to focus on your questions – and will make you look unprofessional.
Even if you are not used to wearing a suit or dressing smartly, find clothes that work for you. Dressing in layers is a great idea so you can feel comfortable no matter the temperature. It is also useful to practice wearing any new shoes, so you get used to them before the interview.
Still unsure what to wear for an interview?
Remember to be you! You do not need to wear a formal grey suit – you just need to be a professional version of yourself.
Bring a little you to your interview outfit, whether it is an accessory that means something to you or a shirt in your favourite colour. The more confident you feel looking in the mirror, the better you will perform in your interview.
