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While your skills and experience are the most important things you bring to a job interview, first impressions are crucial, so it pays to dress for success. A professional look tells the interviewer you’re serious about this opportunity and gives you unshakable confidence.
But should you reach for a blazer and pencil skirt or a button-down shirt and slacks? The right attire for an interview isn’t set in stone—it depends on company culture, interview location, and personal style.
Read on to browse practical styling tips, review different types of companies, and learn what to wear to an interview.
There’s no one outfit for every job interview. Certain businesses expect something prim and proper, while others prefer your business casual best. Here are a few common dress codes for unique company types.
Pro tip: Research the company’s culture and expectations on their website and social media before your interview.
These organizations have the most formal dress codes—think blazers, slacks, and closed-toe pumps. This is the only type of business where a full suit and tie are totally appropriate.
Stick to muted, neutral colors for a more classic look. An ideal palette is black and white or navy and gray. You can also add warmer tones, like brown or nude.
Our foolproof outfit idea is a white button-down shirt, crisp blazer, and ironed slacks. A smart pair of Oxford shoes or understated heels are both suitable, so choose whichever you like best.
A more relaxed work environment is professional but less rigid than a conservative business. While you don’t need the same level of formality, your interview attire should still be snappy and clean.
We recommend tailored blouses, black jeans, and loafers or heels. You should still stick to neutral colors, but small splashes of color are appropriate and allow you to express a little more personality. For instance, try a lilac long sleeve under a gray blazer, or carry a red handbag with a taupe ensemble.
Our go-to outfit combo is a white collared blouse, tan blazer, olive chinos, and simple heels. For a bold touch, pair this with a chic crimson handbag.
Dress codes are a little different in creative industries, such as design companies and fashion boutiques. Go a little bigger and bolder with colors, patterns, and modern trends while still using classic pieces.
Despite the less formal expectations, it’s still important to pay attention to the company’s culture and preferences. Most fashion companies want just a touch of creativity, but others are looking for someone daring enough to sport vibrant oranges and carry a floral handbag.
A strong combo is a black midi dress, blush pink blazer, and black heels. While it isn’t too wild, it’s eye-catching and chic enough for a fashion-forward interviewer.
If you’re a personal trainer or yoga instructor, your work clothes will be pretty casual. Even though you’ll be teaching in leggings and sneakers, it’s still best practice to choose interview attire that’s a little more elevated so you can make a strong first impression.
For instance, one of our go-to outfits is a fitted button-down shirt, high-waisted pants, and ballet flats. Feel free to play with colors and patterns, since the job environment is more upbeat and fun. And if you think you’ll be asked to show off your teaching skills, throw a matching workout set into your bag for a quick outfit change.
No matter which type of company you’re dealing with, these ideas will help you find the perfect outfits for job interviews.
It’s essential to choose comfortable clothing for your interview. This doesn’t mean a sweatshirt and leggings, but try to pick your most comfortable work pants, blazers, and blouses.
Snug waistlines and itchy seams are distractions you don’t need to deal with during an important job interview. You need to focus on describing your qualifications, not thinking about the tight shoulders in an undersized blazer.
Wear tailored clothing that flexes with you when you move. You should be able to walk and sit comfortably, so avoid tight skirts and ill-fitting heels.
If you aren’t sure about the company’s dress code, opt for semi-formal clothing. While overdressing is possible with super casual companies, it isn’t common, and the tried-and-true combo of a blazer and slacks is a reliable option.
For another dressy but not overdressed look, wear a dark maxi skirt with a matching blazer and a white button-down shirt. Add a pair of sleek loafers and a leather handbag, and you’ve got an outfit that covers business casual to conservative.
When in doubt, search for images of the company’s current staff and dress just slightly more formally than them.
Pick subtle, minimalist accessories that complement your clothes without drawing unnecessary attention. For example, a delicate chain on your collarbone is a lovely touch that won’t distract the interviewer.
Other options include subtle designer handbags, neutral tights, or a sophisticated watch. We always recommend a watch, as it’s the perfect way to keep an eye on the time without checking your phone.
Accessories like scarves aren’t typically suitable for job interviews unless you apply to a fashion company. If you do, choose a solid color without too much volume—it should drape across you, not puff.
Adjust your interview outfit to your location. If it’s a video interview, choose colors that contrast your background and make you stand out, like a navy blazer against a white wall.
For in-person interviews, remember that most offices have air conditioning and could give you a chill if you underdress. You don’t want to focus on how cold your arms are, so throw on a cardigan or blazer.
One more tip for in-person interviews: If it’s cold outside, find a large coat that easily fits over your clothes without disturbing or wrinkling them.
It’s easy to thrift the perfect clothes for an interview on ThredUp. With our vast collection, you can build a versatile work wardrobe that suits any size or aesthetic. If you have an interview with two companies, grab two distinct outfits—thrifting is eco-friendly and won’t impact your fashion footprint.
Need a little help crafting the perfect work outfit? Try our Style Chat feature, where you can describe a look, generate it on a model, and browse relevant suggestions from our inventory.
Discover the ideal attire for any job interview, whether the company is traditional, relaxed, or chic.
While this etiquette differs for each business, it’s safe to go with black, white, gray, and navy. Warm browns and tans are also an excellent idea.
Gentle purples and pinks are acceptable in more casual environments, but we recommend using them in moderation.
You don’t always need to dress formally. A simple button-down shirt and dark jeans can get you through most job interviews. But don’t be afraid to grab affordable dress clothes on ThredUp, where you can thrift high-quality brands for up to 90% off the retail price.
Smart casual is right between business casual and casual. It’s more polished and refined than casual clothes but still prioritizes a relaxed look. It’s generally more comfortable and a little more colorful.
This dress code is gaining popularity and is often seen in modern companies and startups.
Avoid wearing these items to a job interview:
No matter how casual the company is, these items give the impression that you’re unprofessional.
