For a job interview, you match your outfit to the sector, the role and the company culture. Choose a well-fitting shirt or blouse, a smart trouser, well-kept shoes and calm colours. Above all, choose something in which you come across as polished and comfortable. Look beforehand at the company's website, photos and social media to gauge the atmosphere and always choose something that is clean, ironed and comfortable.
Why your outfit counts at an interview
A job interview is a first impression in a short time. The employer assesses you on your experience and motivation, but also unconsciously takes your appearance into account. Clothes do not have to play the lead role. Clean, well-fitting and in line with the organisation is enough.
The goal is not to look expensive, but to show that you understand the organisation. Above all, use the team as an indication of the level of formality.
Step 1: read the employer
- Look at the website and team photos. Do you see shirts, polos or T-shirts?
- Look at social media. Photos of office parties or events show how informal it is.
- Think about the sector. The level of formality differs strongly per organisation, even within the same sector.
- Ask. "Is there a dress code I should take into account?" is a normal question to ask a recruiter.
Step 2: choose the level
| Sector | Level | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Banking, legal, government | Formal | Shirt or blouse, trouser, jacket or cardigan |
| Business services | Business casual | Shirt or blouse, smart trouser |
| Creative, tech, start-up | Smart casual | Fine-knit polo or blouse, trouser |
| Healthcare, education | Polished and practical | Blouse or shirt, calm colours |
For men: shirt, trouser and an extra layer
The Hamilton shirt in light blue is made of 100% cotton and has an Italian collar. Light blue is a calm business colour. Wear it with the Ulysses trouser in taupe grey, a slim-fit herringbone trouser made of 66.7% polyester, 31.5% viscose and 1.8% elastane. For a more formal occasion, add the Maximilian cardigan in beige, a wool cardigan with a business cut made of 100% wool. It gives the combination an extra layer.
You can find more shirts and trousers in our Office for Men collection.
For women: blouse, trouser and a cardigan
The Delphine blouse in white is fitted with princess seams and consists of 35% bamboo, 30% microfibre, 30% polyester and 5% elastane. White is a calm business choice. With light fabrics, check that they cover enough. Combine it with the Arabelli in navy, a high-waist trouser with pleats and 5% elastane. The Veronique cardigan in light grey, made of 100% lyocell, completes the outfit and provides an extra layer if the interview takes place in an air-conditioned office. You can find more business combinations for women in the Office for Women collection.
Practical tips for the day itself
- Test your outfit beforehand. Put everything on, walk, sit and move. If something pulls or rides up, choose something else.
- Arrive a little early and check your clothes in the lift or the toilet.
- Choose shoes that are clean and comfortable. A walk from the car park to the entrance is then no problem.
- Keep accessories small. A watch, a fine necklace or a simple belt is enough.
- Bring a bag or folder with your CV and a pen. That is neater than loose papers in your hand.
After the interview
Your outfit also plays a role after the interview. There may be a tour, an introduction to the team or a second interview on the same day. So wear clothes that can handle a long day. A shirt that comes untucked or a blouse that creases when you sit makes the end of the day less confident than the start. Choose fabrics that recover and a fit that does not shift.
A different nuance per role
The role you apply for also sets the tone. For client-facing roles, a slightly more formal outfit can be appropriate. Above all, look at what is usual within the specific organisation and role. That way you show that you understand which role you will play.
What you had better leave out
Above all, avoid clothes or accessories that clearly clash with the dress code or distract you during the interview. Also avoid striking prints or bright colours, unless you know the company is creative. Once you are hired, you can always dress more personally. For a first interview, a simple, polished outfit is usually a safe choice. Above all, choose clothes in which you can sit and move freely.
Applying online or remotely
In a video interview you only see your upper body. Choose a top in a calm colour without a dense pattern, which can flicker on camera. A shirt or blouse with a cardigan over it looks good, and you can keep the bottom half casual without worry. Also wear clothes out of view in which you can stand up without problems.
Looking for a complete base for your work wardrobe? Take a look at women's blouses for a wide choice of timeless pieces.
Shop the look
Hamilton: cotton shirt with Italian collar, light blue
Ulysses: slim-fit herringbone trouser, taupe grey
Maximilian: wool cardigan with business cut, beige
Delphine: fitted blouse, white
Arabelli: high-waist trouser with pleats, navy
Veronique: fine-knit cardigan, light grey
Frequently asked questions
How formal should you be at a job interview?
Match the level to the sector, role and company culture. If in doubt, ask about the dress code.
Is a suit needed for a job interview?
Not always. In formal sectors a suit or a combination of trouser and jacket is good, in other sectors a shirt or blouse with a smart trouser is enough.
Which colour of clothing is best to choose?
Calm colours such as light blue, navy, grey and beige. Avoid bright colours and striking prints.
What do I wear for a video interview?
A calm top without a busy print, for example a shirt or blouse with a cardigan. Also wear smart trousers, in case you have to stand up.
