What to wear to a job interview, from what you already own
You do not need a new outfit for an interview. You need one that fits, feels comfortable and suits the workplace. Here is a simple way to choose it from clothes you already own.
Step 1: research the dress code
Look at the company website, social media and staff photos. A bank or law firm tends to be more formal. A creative studio, school or start-up tends to be more relaxed. If you are still unsure, ask the recruiter what staff usually wear. It is a normal question.
The usual advice is to dress one step above the everyday dress code. If staff wear jeans and tees, wear tailored pants and a neat top. If staff wear business casual, wear a blazer or a polished dress.
Step 2: choose the formula
| Workplace | Outfit |
|---|---|
| Corporate or formal | Suit or matching blazer and pants or skirt, a plain top, closed shoes |
| Business casual | Tailored pants or a knee length skirt, a blouse or fine knit, a blazer, loafers or flats |
| Creative or casual | Dark jeans or chinos, a good top, a jacket, clean shoes |
| Hospitality or retail | Neat pants or skirt, a smart top, comfortable closed shoes that suit the brand |
What to avoid
- Anything that needs adjusting. Pulling at a hem or a neckline is distracting.
- Very strong perfume.
- Clothes that are creased, stained or pilled.
- Shoes that hurt or that you have not worn in.
- An outfit you have never sat down in.
Comfort and confidence
The best interview outfit is the one you forget you are wearing. Choose a colour that makes you feel good. Navy, soft blue, green, burgundy and grey all look professional. Try the outfit on a few days early, sit in a chair, raise your arms and walk up some stairs. If it feels tight, change it.
Video interviews
On video, the top half is what counts. Choose a solid colour that suits you, avoid fine stripes and busy patterns, and keep jewellery simple. Still wear proper bottoms in case you need to stand up. Sit in the same light you will use on the day and check how you look.
The night before checklist
- Outfit tried on, ironed or steamed, and hung up
- Shoes clean and comfortable
- A bag with a copy of your resume, a pen, and tissues
- A spare pair of tights or stockings if you wear them
- A back-up outfit in case something goes wrong
If you find that nothing feels right, our guide on what to wear to work when you hate your work clothes can help you build a stronger base.
Start with what you already own
Most of the outfits in this guide are already hiding in your wardrobe. The hard part is seeing your clothes together. Photograph one outfit you already wear and Modebase picks out each piece for you. Then you can ask for outfits in the chat you already use, such as ChatGPT or Claude, and it answers from your own clothes. For example:
I have an interview at a marketing agency on Thursday. Show me three polished outfits from my wardrobe, and tell me which is the most comfortable.
Frequently asked questions
What should a woman wear to a job interview?
Something that fits well, feels comfortable and is slightly smarter than the everyday dress code of the workplace. A blazer with tailored pants or a skirt is a safe choice for most offices.
Should I wear a suit to an interview?
Only if the workplace is formal. For most offices, a blazer with tailored pants or a polished dress is enough.
What colours are best for an interview?
Navy, grey, soft blue, green and burgundy look professional. Choose a colour that makes you feel confident.
What do I wear to a video interview?
A solid colour top that suits you, simple jewellery and a tidy background. Avoid busy patterns and wear proper bottoms in case you need to stand.