Dress to impress: Nailing job interview drip

Whether you've scored yourself an interview already or are working hard to get it why not check out our hottest interview prep tips to help you ace that interview?

Just as your CV sets up your first impression when you are applying for a job your job interview outfit is what creates the initial impressions when you walk into your interview. While we would all like to imagine that we live in a world where appearance comes second to ability how you present yourself at an interview matters. It’s the first thing your interviewer will notice before you’ve even had a chance to say hello or shake their hand. Wearing the right outfit will make sure you come across as polite and respectful… wearing the wrong thing could cost you the job.

First off we asked Natasha Harding style editor at Pedestrian.tv to share her top recommendations for pulling together the perfect job interview outfit.

 

"What you should wear to a job interview outfit depends on two things: the type of job you're applying for and your own personal style.

The perfect interview outfit helps the interviewer imagine you already working there as part of the team.

For example if you're going for a position in the corporate field (think: finance or law) you want to wear something smart and sophisticated. Whether it's a crisp suit collared shirt or a quality pencil skirt the key to nailing this dress code is with elegant tailored pieces.

Conversely if you're applying for a role in the creative industry there's the opportunity (and in some case the expectation) that you will show your personality through your outfit. This gives you permission to experiment with colours prints and even combine different formalities like swapping out a collared shirt for a T-shirt under a blazer.

In the creative world interviewers are also looking at you and your 'personal brand' - you're trying to sell them on your skills but also you as a package so this isn't necessarily the right time to reach for your safest blandest outfit.

Oh and if you find yourself asking questions like 'is this too short?' or 'is this too creased?' chances are the interviewer might think the same thing so stay well clear of these fashion faux pas.

With all this in mind it's also worth noting that you will feel more confident in the job interview if you wear something you're comfortable in. If you never normally wear pencil skirts or heels don't completely overhaul your own personal style. Instead why not opt for a snazzy pantsuit and some closed-toe flats?

In short the perfect interview outfit is supposed to help give you the confidence to present the best version of yourself rather than make you look like someone you're not."

WHAT ARE THE BIG DOS AND DON'TS?

Don't wear jeans and a tshirt

Of course jeans and a t-shirt are comfortable and in just about any other situation the combo would make a perfect outfit but it is a HUGE no-no when it comes to a job interview. Jeans and a casual tee can even make you come across as disrespectful as if you couldn’t be bothered to put in the effort and you don’t care about getting the job. Don’t risk it.

Don't wear your dad's three-piece suit

Okay okay we know we just said that coming in jeans and tshirt was disrespectful but dressing too over-the-top can come across as disrespectful in a different way as well. If you look like you're trying too hard or don't fit in the suit then interviewers might not take you seriously. Ditch the vest or unbutton your jacket to look a little more comfortable while maintaining your professional style or try switching it up with a colourful shirt tie shoes or socks to catch attention and show that you're not just a boring person in a boring suit.

don't wear yoga pants leggings or other workout outfit clothes

Athleisure wear is having a huge moment right now and there is no arguing that a solid pair of workout tights could cost you more than a basic designer pantsuit. Price aside your outfit should be showing that you are the right candidate for the job and not that you managed to squeeze in an interview between your workout sessions. Keep your workout gear (no matter how “fancy” it is) for the gym.

don't wear your earbuds or headphones

Take out your headphones well before you enter the building in which you’re being interviewed and don’t wear them while you’re waiting to meet your job interviewer. Earphones can make you come across as distracted disinterested and unfocused. You certainly don’t want to be stuck pulling them out and fumbling around with a cord when

 you’re trying to shake hands with the person who, before this moment, could have been your new boss.

don't go crazy with the makeup, accessories, or perfume & cologne

This one applies to both men and women. Peacock in your own time! Many people also have allergies or reactions to strong scents, too, so you're doing everyone a favour by going easy on the perfumes. With that said - make sure you take a good long shower before you head to your interview! Body odour is never a good look.

don't wear dirty sneakers or thongs

This one goes back to the jeans and t-shirt argument. You’re not attending a casual lunch with a friend – your outfit needs to show that you recognise this, care and shows you want to get the job. Even if you're applying for a job at a more casual location, dressing up is better than dressing down in these cases: you'll want to do something like wearing a jacket over your shirt, or rolling up the cuffs of your pants, to show that you're comfortable and chic, but try not too look too shabby overall. You're here to impress!

Don't go too outside of the box

Fashion can say a lot about a person, and we're all for being yourself! But at an interview, it's a good idea to tone it down a little and err on the side of being a bit more cautious and conservative. Once you've nailed that job you can start to test the waters and see what your coworkers' and bosses taste in fashion and style is like - then you can start experimenting and doing Fancy Fridays or something similar. You might even start a trend! But right now, you're trying to make your talents and work experience stand out... not your drip.

don't wear something uncomfortable

We know, it seems confusing after saying no to jeans, tees, sneakers and thongs – but wearing something super uncomfortable could distract you throughout the interview process. You need to wear something that looks both nice and presentable, but if you’re going to be fidgeting and adjusting your outfit, you won’t have your mind on presenting your best self. The same goes for ensuring you've gotten rid of itchy internal tags or loose buttons - make sure there's nothing for you to fidget with or get distracted by.

 

YOU'VE GOT THIS!

Keep it clean, keep it professional, keep it comfortable, and keep it you - and you'll be nailing that upcoming job interview and strolling into your first job in no time.