- Picking an interview outfit might be one of the more stressful parts of
- An ideal interview look shows the employer that you're a good
- What not to wear to an interview includes suits at a laid-back start-up and T-shirts at a law firm.
- Above all, interview outfits should be
17 things you should never wear to a job interview
Knowing what and what not to wear to an interview can be a real struggle for any job seeker. We've compiled some interview tips that should help you create the ideal interview outfit.
Anything that's wrinkled or wrinkle-prone
People make an assumption about you before you sit down in the seat and start talking."
Something that doesn't quite fit you or is stained
You want to wear your best, most-polished clothing to the interview so you can feel confident from the get-go. Don't start off on the wrong foot with clothing that doesn't feel comfortable or look presentable.
Light colors
Anything that's too trendy
Unless you're interviewing for a job in the fashion industry, you're probably going to want to keep your outfit on the conservative side.
Opt for neutral or earth tones, simple makeup and jewelry, and quiet patterns, the experts advise.
Your interview look is probably not going to put you on a street style blog, but you want to be remembered for your confidence and abilities. Not your clothes.
Jeans and a T-shirt
Even if you're interviewing with Mark Zuckerberg, you shouldn't wear jeans and a T-shirt.
Granted, if you know the whole office is ultra-casual, you shouldn't show up in a suit. But you also shouldn't be quite as low-key as the rest of them.
"You go in the middle," Aimee said. "You're not as casual as everyone else is but you're also not too formal."
If you know everyone is in flip-flops, opt for baseline casual — dark denim and a nice blouse or shirt.
Yoga pants or other gym clothes
Yes, athleisure is trendy, and it's crossed the over into workwear. But athleisure is still considered inappropriate in most conservative offices — and it definitely shouldn't be worn to a job interview.
Outlandish make-up or jewelry
Loud patterns or crazy colors
The experts suggest leaning towards quiet colors — navy, black, gray, or brown.
Sandals
Even if it's a casual office, you will want to go a notch or two above what everyone else is wearing, Aimee said.
Opt for fancy sneakers, loafers, or flats if you think dress shoes aren't right for the company.
A crazy tie or a black tie
Navy, red, gray, or a pattern of these shades are safer options, the experts say.
Black ties should only be worn for black tie events.
Earbuds or headphones
Store these in your bag before you get to reception area. Your future boss is going to be annoyed with you if you can't hear him or her because you're too engrossed in a podcast.
Visible underwear
A lot of perfume or cologne
One spray is fine. But your interviewer might be allergic to your perfume and get a sneeze attack.
For men, shoes and belts that aren't made of leather
Now is not the time for your coolest sneakers or your D-ring cloth belt.
Even if it's a super casual office, men should stick to a leather belt or more upscale sneakers. Don't look like you could go for a jog.
Your flashiest nose piercing
Again, err towards the conservative. Unless you know it's a casual environment, experts say women should stick to ear lobe piercings while men may want to remove them all.
Ripped or light-wash jeans
Jeans are common in casual offices, but usually black jeans are the most acceptable.
Don't go with the most casual wash and cut for the job interview, or you'll appear unprofessional.
Something that doesn't make you feel awesome, confident, and ready for anything
If you feel stifled by having to wear a suit for a job interview, it might be a sign that the company's environment isn't a fit for you.
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