Dressing for a job interview is deceptively complicated, and even experienced professionals can make mistakes when going in for a new role, experts say. The key is to keep your outfit and accessory choices polished and purposeful so they don’t distract from your skills and credentials. A tailored, well-fitting suit—such as the Bonobos Jetsetter Wool Suit—or a conservative dress, like the Theory Flared Dress in Admiral Crepe, are two excellent choices.
In search of no-fail interview outfits, we turned to Amanda Lynch, a human resources consultant for financial institutions, and image consultant and style coach Carol Davidson. “The goal is for an interview to focus on you, your story and why you’re the best person for the role,” says Lynch. “Your outfit shouldn’t be distracting.” Here, a roadmap to dressing for your next job—including selections for both men and women—so you can focus on nailing your interview, rather than stressing over whether you wore the right shoes. For convenience, we’ve broken down our interview dressing tips by clothing, bags, shoes, accessories and important finishing touches.
While post-pandemic dress codes may seem loose, an interview is not the time to dress too casually. Do your homework prior to the interview, and consider the industry, level of formality and role. If you’re interviewing for a job in a business formal setting, opt for formal, matched suiting. “Think darker, solid, neutral colors, matched with a light or white shirt or blouse,” says Davidson. If it’s business casual, “opt for well-coordinated separates, which may include a blazer, top and trousers; a collared shirt and bottom; or a refined knit or polo with a five-pocket pant.” In general, always avoid blue denim, skip patterns and keep it neutral. (For more on work outfits, we have guides to the best suits for men, best blazers for men, best dress pants for men and the best work pants for women.)
A Well-Fitting Suit In A Dark Color
This mid-priced suit comes in three fit options—slim, standard and athletic—a variety of blazer sizes and inseam lengths, and it’s available in ten colors. For interviews, it’s best to stick with navy or a dark charcoal.
Classic Blazer That's Instantly Elevating
One of our favorite choices for professional attire, Charles Tyrwhitt’s Proper Blazer comes in classic and slim fits, as well as short, regular and long jacket sizes. It’s made with breathable wool and just a hint of stretch to move with you.
Dress With Simple Detailing And A Pretty Silhouette
Theory’s workwear is well-regarded for a reason: professional silhouettes in quality, work-friendly fabrics. The subtle flare hem and bateau neckline of this dress make it polished without being boring. Since this is a simple dress, you can choose to add visual interest with a contrasting blazer.
Stylish And Structured Midi Dress
British designer Karen Millen’s dresses are both beautiful and sophisticated. The structured crepe fabric and waist-accentuating belt give this dress a sophisticated feel, while the three-quarter-length sleeves mean you can wear it year-round.
Professional Pant With A Flowy Drape
Reformation’s Mason Pant is a drapey and elevated style, so it doesn’t feel—or look—like a run-of-the-mill work pant. Since this is a wide-leg option, pair it with a more fitted top in a solid neutral color.
To project a professional and organized image, avoid carrying multiple bags and “choose a single, high-quality handbag, tote, briefcase or messenger bag that has structure and can hold all of your essentials—including extra copies of your resume and something to take notes with,” says Davidson. Also, look for a carryall with internal pockets, as they help you stay organized. A good rule of thumb: Avoid bags with logos, and don’t wear a backpack, as it could appear too informal or collegiate, says Lynch. (For more on appropriate work bag selections, see our guides to the best work bags for women, the best briefcases for men and the best messenger bags for men.)
Multiple Carrying Options And Helpful Pockets
This bag is understated yet functional—it features a dedicated laptop sleeve, numerous internal pockets for organization, an external zippered pocket and a padded shoulder strap. We especially like it in black for interviews.
Roomy, Sculptural Work Bag
Cuyana’s work satchel comes in a unique silhouette that transforms from a more streamlined shape to a roomy tote with the help of hidden magnetic side panels. It has interior slip pockets, an interior zip pocket to keep valuables secure and can accommodate a 16-inch laptop. We also like Cuyana’s Double Loop Satchel and Mila Satchel as stylish work options.
Affordable Work Bag With Room For A Laptop
This sleek tote features comfy wide shoulder straps and dedicated internal compartments for your laptop, documents, phone and water bottle. It comes in six pretty neutrals, although we suggest darker tones if you’re heading to an interview.
To put your best foot forward with confidence, choose comfortable, neutral shoes that coordinate with your outfit. Depending on the industry and level of formality, men should wear oxfords, derbies, wingtip brogues, formal boots or non-athletic leather sneakers; women may choose to wear pumps, kitten heels, wedges, professional flats, formal boots or non-athletic leather sneakers. As a rule, stick to heels that are three inches or less. And while it sounds obvious, “shoes should be clean, polished and in good condition,” says Davidson. (Also see our stories on the most comfortable dress shoes for men, the most comfortable heels and the best dress sneakers for men.)
Lace-Up Oxfords Made With Quality Materials
Beckett Simonon’s oxfords are high quality, but a little more affordable than similar options, thanks to its direct-to-consumer model. This pair looks great styled with everything from a suit to dress slacks to a five-pocket pant, and it comes in five rich colors. Pro tip: “Never, ever wear white athletic socks with men’s dress shoes,” says Lynch. “Wear dark dress socks.”
Supportive, Stable And Stylish Heels
Sarah Flint’s designs seamlessly blend style and comfort. Several features make this an ideal interview shoe: The round toe won’t cramp toes, the block heel offers a stable base, and it has anatomical arch support and extra padding at the footbed.
Low Block Heel That Makes Walking Easy
Think of this as a formal ballet flat meets heel. The modern, elevated square toe paired with a 1-inch block heel makes it dressy enough for an interview, but comfortable enough if the hiring manager takes you on a tour of the offices.
Generally, ensure that your accessories do not overpower your outfit and that they complement your clothing in terms of formality. “Think subtle overstatement,” says Davidson. “Beware of anything that dangles or clanks.” (For more on core work accessories, here are our guides to the best belts for men, the best watches for men, the best affordable jewelry brands and the best online jewelry stores.)
Timeless Watch That Dresses Up Any Outfit
While smart watches are everywhere these days, a mechanical watch with a leather band has an elevated feel. Shinola’s Runwell features a 41mm case size, which is popular with both men and women, and comes in 11 dial and finish combinations.
Refined Belt That's Elegant In Its Simplicity
It can be challenging to find an understated belt that’s not too casual for work clothes. Charles Tyrwhitt’s leather belt has clean lines and is an ideal width that’s neither too thick nor too thin. It comes in black, chocolate brown and dark tan, and is available in sizes ranging from 30 inches to 42 inches.
Affordable, Goes-With-Everything Stud
Studs are classic and unfussy, and this 14k gold pair comes in a wearable 6mm size that’s not overpowering or distracting. Plus, they won’t oxidize or discolor over time.
It’s not just the outfit that can make or break your interview look. It’s also important to pay careful attention to things like scent and overall hygiene. “Hair and makeup are part of the finishing touches,” says Davidson. “Interviewers will make a dotted line connection—if you pay attention to the details of your wardrobe, you must also pay attention to the details of your work.” While these tips below aren’t outfit-specific, our experts agreed they’re critical for a successful interview.
At Forbes Vetted, our readers are driven professionals, and our fashion team invests a lot of time in helping outfit you for success. We’ve written about everything from the best suits for men to the best Oxford shirts for men to the most comfortable flats for women.