Key Highlights

Dressing appropriately for your interview is crucial to making a good impression. Here's how to crack the interview dress code:

  • Business Formal: For finance, banking, or law, opt for a sharp suit, crisp shirt, tasteful tie, and polished shoes in classic colors and subtle prints.

  • Business Casual: In industries like start-ups or IT, strike a balance with tailored trousers or chinos, an open-neck shirt, and a blazer for a polished yet relaxed look.

  • Smart Casual: If the office vibe is more laid-back, consider navy chinos or dark denim with a collared shirt or polo T-shirt layered beneath a sweater, paired with loafers or casual trainers.

Remember these tips:

  • Research: Understand the company culture and dress accordingly.

  • Be slightly overdressed: It's better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.

  • Perfect fit: Ensure your clothes fit well to convey attention to detail and professionalism.


May 25, 2022

Cracking the Interview Dress Code

You've polished your CV, spruced up your LinkedIn, and networked tirelessly, culminating in securing that all-important interview. But as the big day looms, outfit choice becomes crucial. While your skills are vital, it's your presentation that sets you apart. So, what should you wear? Opt for attire that's industry-appropriate, well-fitted, and boosts your confidence. Gone are the days of a one-size-fits-all suit; today, different sectors demand different styles. Whether you're a creative in tech, a finance professional, or something in between, dressing the part enhances your chances of success.

Business Formal

In industries like finance, banking, and law, a strict professional dress code prevails, leaving little room for deviation. Your safest bet is a sharp suit paired with a crisp shirt, a tasteful tie, and polished shoes. Stick to classic colors and subtle prints like diagonal stripes or discreet Paisley patterns. Avoid ties that overly express your personality; instead, opt for a classical and elegant look.

Business Casual

When aiming for a smart-casual appearance in industries like start-ups, IT, or sales, it's essential to strike the right balance between professionalism and informality. Opt for tailored navy trousers or chinos paired with an open-neck shirt and a blazer for a polished yet relaxed ensemble. Alternatively, a plain smart sweater can also be a suitable choice, offering versatility without overwhelming patterns.

Smart Casual

If your prospective colleagues typically opt for trendy trainers, T-shirts, and skinny jeans during office hours, you can afford to relax your style a bit. However, it's important not to take it too far by showing up in ripped jeans and flip-flops expecting to impress. Instead, consider navy chinos or dark denim paired with a collared shirt or polo T-shirt layered beneath a sweater for a safe yet stylish look. Complete the outfit with loafers or casual trainers for a polished finish.

Do your homework

Research the company prior to your interview to get a handle on its culture and how its staff tends to dress. And, better still, if you know someone that works there, ask them first-hand about the prevailing dress code.

Better to be Overdressed

Even if the company you’re hoping will hire you has an informal dress code that allows employees wear very casual clothing, many recruitment experts advise kitting yourself out a notch above the average staff outfit.

Make sure it’s a perfect fit

Wearing ill-fitting clothes can convey a lack of attention to detail. Ensure your suit jacket fits properly without excess fabric and cuffs not overly exposed. Also, ensure your trousers are just right, lightly grazing the top of your shoe for a polished look.

Get the details right

Make sure your personal presentation doesn’t let the side down. Stained, ripped or badly-fitting clothes are to be avoided at all costs; if you need to get your outfit pressed or dry cleaned, it’s a small price to pay to make a great first impression.