Job Interview Outfits for Women
Updated on March 8, 2024
Landing a new job – whether it’s your dream job, your very first role or returning to the workforce – can be a full-time job in itself. You can spend hours perfecting your resume, practicing interviews and researching each company down to the last detail. But with all that preparation it’s important to make a good impression. After all, the outfit you choose can form a first opinion that counts. We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the best job interview outfits so you can dress to impress every time. Because if there’s one thing we know for sure, if you look great you feel great, too.
Interview Clothes For Women
Read on to discover what to wear to an interview, with outfits that will make you look and feel confident – no matter how nervous you feel. We’ll cover everything from casual job interviews to formal professional interviews, and even video call interviews.
1. What to Wear to a Casual Job Interview
When most people think of interview clothes for women, they probably imagine a traditional well-tailored suit. The reality is a little different for most of us. But, while not all roles demand a three-piece suit, even the most relaxed workplaces require a little polish.
For a casual job interview, a clean, off-duty look is the way to go. Perhaps one of the most fail-proof looks is denim jeans, a t-shirt or tank top and a smart blazer. The biggest trick with this look? Keep it simple and clean.
Opt for neutral tones that create a cohesive look, such as shades of blue, grey, nude, black or cream. Once you have your colour scheme on point, express yourself with varying iterations in shape and silhouette. Straight-leg, wide-leg, or skinny jeans will show off your personal style.
The tailored blazer has also evolved over the years – choose from a classic single-breasted fitted cut, an oversized look in breezy linen or a classic herringbone fabric. The blazer’s power shoulder can transform even the most casual looks into a chic, interview-appropriate ensemble.
2. What to Wear to a Formal Professional Interview
Not sure what to wear to a job interview in a corporate setting? Corporate workwear has evolved. Once typically rigid and uniform, there are now endless ways to make your 9-5 attire feel fresh, versatile, and fashionable. The full matching set holds a particular power in the sartorial ranks, and there are always modern iterations to suit every style. Choose a matching suit in high-quality fabrics and cuts. Linen is best for the warmer months and still looks professional and polished, and wool blends are perfect for winter. As you ease into the dress code, filter your suiting through your wardrobe as separates, extending the outfitting options of pieces you already own.
3. What to Wear to a Video Interview
For a large portion of us, working from home has become a part of our everyday life. Taking an interview from the home office? Just like an in-person interview, confidence is key and the best way to feel your best is to dress to impress. Directional prints are the way to getting noticed and letting your personal style and creativity shine. Opt for bold shirts and blouses with design details that are fashion-forward; like oversized fits, exaggerated sleeves and high necklines. If you want to feel put-together from head to toe, a refined pair of utility-inspired cargo pants will get you in that interview mindset while remaining comfortable for long periods of time sitting down.
4. What Colours to Wear to an Interview
Colour says a lot about us, and in an interview, this is even more crucial. It’s often best to stick to neutral tones like black, grey, neutral, and blue tones. Tonal dressing is an effortless way to look put together too.
Simply choose one colour family in different shades and textures that complement each other, like ivory, nude and camel. For winter, darker and neutral tones are key. Layers are also essential when moving from outside to in. You don’t want to be sweating through your interview in a chunky knit or a heavy wool-blend suit. Opt for layering you can shed easily.