Interview Attire

Dress for Success

Did you know that hiring decisions can be made within the first few minutes of your interview? This underscores the importance of dressing appropriately! While it’s ideal to be judged on skills and abilities rather than appearance, the reality is that how you present yourself matters in interviews and on the job.

Your appearance communicates messages about your motivation, judgment, professionalism, and fit within the organization. During an interview, it’s important to convey respect, so opt for slightly more conservative and formal attire than what employees typically wear at the company.

You can find information about the company dress code on their website, or it’s perfectly acceptable to inquire when scheduling your interview. Remember: when in doubt, don’t hesitate to ask!

General Guidelines

There are three main categories of dressing for success: Business Professional, Business Casual, and Smart Casual. While there are no strict rules regarding attire, here are some guidelines:

  • The primary goal of dressing for your interview is to feel good and look professional. If you feel uncomfortable in an outfit, even if it fits well and others say you look great, it’s best to avoid wearing it.
  • Pay attention to quality, cut, and fit as they communicate a lot about your professionalism. Avoid wearing a suit that is clearly too big or too small. Investing in professional alterations can be worthwhile.
  • Regardless of whether you are dressing in Business Professional, Business Casual, or Smart Casual attire for work, avoid wearing dirty or wrinkled clothes, scuffed shoes, chipped nails, athletic clothing, sneakers, hiking boots, flip-flops, or athletic sandals. Additionally, avoid wearing shorts, skirts, or tops that are too short or tight for the office.

Note: This information is intentionally gender-neutral and inclusive of diverse ethnic, cultural, and religious backgrounds. Your culture, gender, and religious identity may influence your choice of attire. We encourage you to incorporate those elements into your dress for success wardrobe.

“Business Professional” Attire

Business Professional Attire images in varying colors of blue. Image has a skirt, a business shirt with tie, a blazer, a dress, a pair of slacks, a blouse, shoes, and a briefcase.
  • Two-piece suit and tie; solid, neutral colors are best
  • Skirt length should be to the knee—or close to it, depending on what length works for you
  • Solid color or subtle patterned blouse/top/dress shirt
  • Minimal jewelry
  • Dark shoes with dark socks. If you are unsure which shoe or sock colors “go” with your suit, or what color belt you should pair with your suit/shoes, ask the Career Services Center staff for advice
  • Closed-toe shoes (1- or 2-inches heel height) are appropriate but should be comfortable to stand and walk in; flats or wedges are okay as well
  • Subtle makeup
  • Trimmed facial hair
  • Avoid colognes, perfumes, body sprays
  • Carry a portfolio, professional bag, or simple, small purse (no backpacks)

“Business Casual” Attire

Business Casual Attire images in multiple colors. It includes a yellow sleeveless dress, a blue sweater, a teal skirt, a blue pair of slacks, an orange sweater, and shoes.
  • Wearing a tie is optional
  • Sport coats/blazers are appropriate, but not required
  • Shirts should be collared (polo or button-down)
  • Dress pant options include slacks, khakis, chinos (No leggings!)
  • Dresses or skirt/blouse combinations are appropriate (sundresses are not appropriate)
  • Shorts are not considered appropriate for interviews
  • Good casual shoes, like loafers, flats, wedges, or low heels (sandals may be appropriate considering the climate – but no flip-flops!) or fashion sneakers.
  • Subtle makeup
  • Avoid colognes, perfumes, body sprays

“Smart Casual” Attire

Smart Casual Attire images in multiple colors. It includes a striped t-shirt, a blue pair of jeans, a teal skirt, a blue collared t-shirt, a yellow sweater, a backpack, and shoes.

Anything listed as Business Casual, and:

  • Jeans—avoid rips or holes; darker washes are generally considered more professional
  • Clean, plain T-shirts
  • Sandals may be appropriate, but not athletic sneakers or flip-flops!
  • Avoid athleisure wear, spaghetti straps or camisoles, or any top that reveals too much bare skin

Non-Dress Issues

Here’s what can negatively impact your interview, even if you’re dressed impeccably. Pay attention to personal grooming before meeting with an employer:

  • Turn your phone completely off before the interview; even the vibrate setting can be distracting.
  • Iron your clothes to ensure they’re wrinkle-free.
  • While accessories can enhance your look, avoid anything overly distracting.
  • Empty your pockets of coins or anything that may distract you or your interviewer.
  • While personal expression is empowering, be mindful that certain aspects like visible tattoos, facial piercings, or brightly colored hair may not align with the office culture. (Do your research on the organization.)
  • Avoid wearing hats or ball caps to an interview, except for religious reasons.
  • Maintain good personal hygiene standards, including bathing, using deodorant, and ensuring clean and neatly trimmed hair and facial hair (unless for religious reasons).
  • Keep your nails clean and trimmed, and if you choose to wear nail polish, opt for a color and length that is professional and comfortable.
  • Brush your teeth before the interview and carry breath mints for emergencies but avoid chewing gum or candy during the interview.
  • If you smoke, ensure your interview clothes are stored in a smoke-free environment.

If you have specific questions about professional attire or have concerns not covered here, the WGU Career & Professional Development team will be happy to speak with you individually. Remember, the goal of the interview is to get the job offer! Dress to make sure your potential employer is paying attention to your accomplishments and professionalism.

Content attributed to University of San Francisco