Don't make these interview fashion mistakes.

Your job search is all about making the right impression. Once you get to the interview stage, you've already wowed the recruiter or hiring manager with your resume and credentials. It would be a shame to turn them off because you wore the wrong clothes to your interview.

  • How do you stay true to yourself while dressing professionally for a job interview? 

  • Can you show your unique and creative style while still making a good impression?

When you open your closet to pick your outfit, you have to know what not to wear to a job interview. 

First impressions don't get a second chance

Whether anyone will admit it or not, the first thing a recruiter or interviewer notices about you when you walk into an interview is your appearance – what you're wearing and how you carry yourself. According to this 2017 report, 75 percent of recruiters say job candidates dress too casually. 

There is a saying that you should dress for the job you want, not the one you have. So, to improve your chances of making a great first impression, be part of the 25 percent that dress to impress! Stick to wearing business professional attire like blazers, suits, dresses, dress pants, and dress blouses/shirts. These clothing items are all acceptable job interview attire. 

If you want to give off a professional vibe but suits and blazers aren't your thing, you can still make the cut as long as you avoid certain outfits or looks. But what outfits should you avoid? 

Overly casual clothes

Casual dress means something different to everyone. However, you can strike a balance between professionalism and confidence without appearing like you're uninterested, don't care, or simply aren't professional. How do you get it right and avoid dressing too casually to keep from having the decision about whether you'll be a good fit sway in the wrong direction? 

What to not wear to an interview: Yoga pants, pajamas, wrinkled clothing, jeans, shorts, hoodies, and t-shirts are all too casual for a job interview. Even if the company has a laid-back culture, what amounts to loungewear is never the right choice.

What to wear to an interview: Instead, you should opt for clothes that give off a more polished, smart-casual look that proves you're serious but adaptable. For example, trousers, button-down shirts/blouses, cardigans, and loafers. 

Don't wear tight or ripped clothing

You're getting ready for an interview, not a night on the town. So, dressing as such would be a major misstep. Keep tight, revealing, and hole-filled clothing off your list of options. Anything that shows underclothing, cleavage, too much skin, or midriffs is unacceptable.

What not to wear to an interview: While ripped and tight clothing can make a positive impact and can be trendy, it would be detrimental in a job interview. Fashionable isn't always seen as polished. Leave tight dresses/skirts, distressed pants, and plunging necklines on the hanger. 

What to wear to an interview: Fitted blazers, dress pants, and pencil skirts are great options for giving off a polished and sophisticated look that also gives the impression you're taking the interview seriously. 

Related reading: What Should I Wear to a Job Interview: Women's Edition

Subtle and professional colors are the way to go

It can be easy for someone with an outgoing personality to pick an outfit with bold patterns or bright colors; however, remember, you aren't dressing for yourself. You're dressing to impress someone you've likely never met. Basic colors truly are the most reliable for showing professionalism – and the best part is that they're widely accepted in almost every industry. 

What not to wear to an interview: Since you want the interviewer to be focused on what you say rather than what you have on your body, avoid busy, complex patterns or items with glittery, metallic fabrics. You should also stay away from bright colors, think orange, red, hot pink, and anything neon. 

What to wear to an interview: Black, brown, gray, and white are all acceptable colors for a job interview. You can also opt for pinstripes or small checks to add a little bit of visual interest without being distracting. 

When to break these rules: At no other time can you break interview attire rules except in this category. If you're interviewing for a role that requires self-expression – like for a creative job, an artist position, or some other design role – then you can show a bit of personality in your outfit. For example, if you are interviewing at a fashion magazine, you want to make sure you are on trend and making the right fashion impression.

Your accessories should be simple and professional

In keeping with the concept that you want to make an impression based on how your personality meshes with the company's culture and how well your qualifications align with the job, you want to avoid wearing accessories – jewelry and makeup – that don't detract from your goal. 

What not to wear to an interview: Makeup, perfume, or jewelry (including alarms on watches) that will be distracting during an interview. Things like large, chunky jewelry and facial piercings should be saved for another time. Also, it's a good idea to skip the perfume all together. You wouldn't want to get into a situation where you're in someone's office who's allergic to something you're wearing. 

What to wear to an interview: Simple jewelry, like stud earrings or a delicate necklace, is fine. Also, natural makeup with neutral shades is perfect for most settings. 

Shoes matter, too

There is a line in Shawshank Redemption that queries, “How often do you look at someone's shoes?” Well, in an interview, the answer is every single time. Be sure your footwear is practical and professional. 

What not to wear to an interview. Flip flops are a definite no for any job interview. Sandals, in general, should be left at home unless it is an open-toed high heel or dress sandal. Instead, wear sensible shoes that match your attire – nothing flashy or too out there. No heels that are too high, bright or old sneakers, or distracting shoes. You should also avoid wearing new shoes to a job interview because any comfort that comes from shoes that aren't properly broken in will be noticed.

What to wear to an interview: Pick shoes that are well-maintained and comfortable, like closed-toe flats or low-to-mid-heeled pumps. Loafers are a good choice, too. 

Avoid wearing headwear

Ever walk into a place and realize you still have your earbuds in your ears? Well, don't do that in your interview. You have to maintain an open and engaged appearance to convey that you're attentive and ready for the interview.

What not to wear to an interview. Keep earbuds or earphones, hats, beanies, and hoods away from an interview! None of these are acceptable and can be distracting and off-putting. The only exception, of course, would be if you wear headwear for religious or cultural reasons.

What to wear to an interview: Nice, clean hair that is styled in a way that stays in place and out of your face. 

Research the company, then plan your interview attire 

When researching the company, you want to get a sense of the culture so you don't come dressed inappropriately for your interview. An example would be if you dressed nicely in a suit while the rest of the company is dressed casually and has a strict no-suit rule. This isn't usually the case, but you won't know until you research this information.

Feeling out of place during an interview can also cause you to be less confident and have the hiring manager question whether you would be a good fit. Researching beforehand can help you avoid these situations. If you can't find anything to indicate one way or another, call the recruiting office and ask if wearing business casual would be appropriate. The response will help you decide what to wear.

Related reading: What Should I Wear to a Job Interview: Men's Edition

First impressions really do matter!

Dress to impress – but within the company culture guidelines. You want to make a good impression, fit in, and have recruiters remember you for the right reasons. Research the company, leave casual and flashy clothing and accessories at home, and let your shoes match the outfit. What you wear can leave a lasting impression, so make it a good one!

You have the perfect outfit picked out, but you're still unsure about your interview prep. Talk with one of our professional interview coaches today!

This article was originally written by Felicia Tatum. It's been updated by Masrha Hebert.

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