Job interviews are stressful enough without having to worry about what you’re going to wear. Whether you’re a fresh faced kid straight out of college or a seasoned pro reaching for your dream gig, the interview is a necessary evil.
Maybe you’re stressed, anxious, and possibly clueless of where to start. But don’t worry I’ve got your back! Breathe and relax. You got this!
By implementing a few simple rules I guarantee you’ll be light years ahead of all the other candidates.
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1. Wear a Solid Colored Suit in Navy, Grey, or Charcoal
Just like any other major event the suit will be your foundation. You definitely want to go with a more conservative look. Here are the key attributes we’re looking for:
- Two button jacket
- Solid but a faint pinstripe would also be fine. No windowpanes, chalk stripes, or Conor McGregor’s F*ck You design.
- Notch lapels in the 3 to 3.5 inch range are perfect. If you’re very slim you can get away with a slimmer lapel.
Here’s a great example of what we’re looking for:
2. Wear a Tie in a Subtle Pattern
- Here I would recommend a pindot or classic double stripe. We want a pattern that adds some visual interest while not being distracting.
Some other things to keep in mind:
- Avoid prints like paisley or floral
- Avoid super shiny “Prom” ties and bow ties
- When in a doubt you can never go wrong with a solid grenadine in navy, burgundy, charcoal, or black (but only if you’re wearing a grey suit)
- Keep the tie width proportionate to your lapels. For example: wear a 3 inch tie with a 3 inch lapel.
- Use a conventional knot like a 4 in Hand or Half Windsor. Now is not the time for a Trinity knot.
3. Pick a Solid Shirt
- The ideal choice is solid tailored shirt in white or pale blue
- Look for a spread or semi spread collar
- If you are wearing a solid suit you can get away with a striped shirt but again keep it subtle
- Avoid wide stripes, gingham, or patterned shirts of any kind
4. Pick a Conservative Dress Shoe
The easy choice would be a cap toe like the Allen Edmonds Park Avenue as seen above. If you wanted to add a touch of flair this number from Magnanni would definitely work as well.
A few tips:
- We want sleek yet clean and simple. Notice a trend?
- In this situation the rule of thumb is to go with black shoes but dark brown will do just fine.
- Make sure your shoes are clean and polished
5. Take it Easy on the Accessories
In keeping with the ongoing theme of this post we want to keep accesories reserved and to a minimum.
- Socks should be dark, solid and match your trousers. Please don’t wear these.
- Your belt should match your shoes and should not be overly thick or bulky. Make sure it doesn’t have any contrast stitching. The buckle shouldn’t be overly shiny and the leather should be crack free.
- No lapel flowers or Batman cufflinks
- In regards to a pocket square you can never go wrong with white in a contrasting edge and a straight fold. Now’s not the time to peacock
- Pick a tie bar in a brushed nickel or gunmetal. Don’t forget the tie bar rules either.
- When wearing a watch I recommend a clean, minimal piece. I would avoid divers or casual pieces worn on a nato or rubber strap. You should definitely avoid smartwatches as they can be ridiculously distracting.
Now you’re halfway there. Go and kill that interview!
Have any additional tips? Leave a comment below.