What to Wear to an Interview and Make a Powerful First Impression

The Cardinal Rule of Interview Dressing

Always err on the side of formal - you can't be overdressed, but you can definitely be underdressed. When choosing between jeans and slacks, always choose slacks, even if you think the workplace is casual.

Ask the person who scheduled your interview about appropriate attire if you're unsure
This rule applies to remote interviews too - dress fully professional including pants, shoes, and belt
Dressing well puts you in the right headspace and boosts confidence

The One-Step-Up Method

Dress one level above what current employees wear at the company you're interviewing with.

McDonald's employees wear uniforms → You wear smart casual
Teachers wear smart casual → You wear business casual
Office workers wear business casual → You wear business formal
Research the company's dress code through their social media or by asking directly

Understanding Business Attire Levels

Smart Casual

Men: Quality t-shirt, short-sleeve button-down, or polo with khakis or chinos
Women: Nice slacks, sweater, or blouse
Key rule: Avoid logos, graphics, and athleisure - keep it polished but relaxed

Business Casual

Men: Nice slacks or chinos, button-down shirt, sweater, belt, and dress shoes (no tie required)
Women: Dress pants with blouse, business dress with pumps, or unstructured blazer
Think: Elevated professional but not full formal

Business Professional

Men: Complete suit with jacket, button-down tucked in, belt matching shoes
Women: Matching suit with blouse, or structured business dress
Key: Everything should be tailored and coordinated

The Halo Effect Advantage

People subconsciously assume positive traits about you based on your appearance. You control this through:

Basic hygiene: Shower, brush teeth, comb hair, use deodorant
Grooming: Clean-shaven or well-groomed facial hair, appropriate makeup
Scent: Smell clean, skip heavy cologne or perfume
Fit: Clothes must be properly tailored, especially for men

Shopping Strategies

Budget Options

Thrift stores and Goodwill often have excellent professional clothing
Online platforms like Mercari, Poshmark, Facebook Marketplace
Discount retailers: Ross, Marshalls, TJ Maxx, Kohl's, Old Navy, Target

Mid-Range Investment

J.Crew, Banana Republic, H&M, Nordstrom, Abercrombie, Express

High-End Suits

Men: Suit Supply, Indochino, Brooks Brothers, Ralph Lauren
Women: Ann Taylor, Everlane, COS, Theory
Best option: Custom bespoke suits for perfect fit

Final Professional Tips

Cut the tag on new suit jackets - leaving it on signals inexperience
Professional cleaning for nice clothing instead of home washing
Simple colors work best - avoid loud patterns or bright colors
Conservative approach for traditional industries like law or finance
Modern inclusivity means piercings and tattoos are generally more accepted, but read your industry

Remember: Treat your interview like a professional date - look your absolute best because when you look good, you feel confident, and that confidence will shine through in your interview.