It’s the 21st century and talent should count for a lot more than looks, shouldn’t it? Additionally, the workplace is becoming more casual these days and jeans are an acceptable piece of clothing in many companies, especially within the creative industry. Thus, does it really matter what to wear for an interview when looking for a new job or applying at a new company? As long as you are neat and not too provocative, that should suffice, right?
Well, not necessarily. For one thing, while the company may practice a “smart casual” approach to dressing within its offices, job interviews still fall under the “formal setting” realm, which has within it other formal settings such as board meetings, external meetings, industry conferences and events, and awards ceremonies. As the younger millennials and Gen Zs say these days: “Read the room.” You may be applying for a social media manager position at your local Tiktok office, but in a job interview setting, a sense of decorum is still expected. Hiring managers may be aware that their usual office dress code is considerably casual, but they also expect potential new hires to have some critical thinking and be able to discern what’s appropriate and not appropriate for different situations.
The moment you step in that door, the first impression you give – along with how you handle yourself – already informs experienced potential employers of the person that you are. In fact, they might have already made up about 93% of their opinion of you. The actual interview is your chance to either reiterate their opinions or change their minds. Make a good first impression, and it may be easier to convince them that you are the perfect person for the job.
(On the right: Obviously what not to do. Photo by Karolina Grabowska/Pexels.com)
So how do I decide what to wear for an interview?
Speaking to Sheemi Mayanti Abdul Jalil, Director of Strategic Comms and Programme Director of Community Investments & Environment at Axiata Foundation about job interview dos and don’ts, among the gems she shared included appropriate work wear for an interview and why it’s important to test run your outfit beforehand. She also shared what pieces of clothing might help to increase your chances of being hired as well as what to look out for in your outfit that might make you feel uncomfortable and possibly affect your confidence.
What to wear for an interview
You want to make a good impression but still feel comfortable and feel like yourself. Pick an outfit guided by these tips from Sheemi:
- Tailored fits are key. Whether it’s a suit, a dress, or business separates, your outfit should fit you well but still be comfortable. A sloppy or too-tight fit can detract from your professional appearance.
- Blazers are versatile pieces that instantly elevate your look. For women, a well-fitted dress or skirt suit works well, and for men, a classic suit or business-casual combination is a strong choice.
Colour me profesh
According to Sheemi, when it comes to choosing the best colours for female candidates during an interview, the goal is to project confidence, professionalism, and approachability.
“Navy blue is a classic choice for interviews,” says Sheemi. “It conveys confidence, trustworthiness, and professionalism without being as formal as black. It’s a universally flattering colour and works well in both conservative and creative fields.”
Meanwhile, while bold colours might score you some fierce points in the fashion world, it is advised to keep it toned down when it comes to what to wear for an interview.
“Red is intense and can come across as overly assertive or even aggressive in an interview setting,” Sheemi shares. “If you still prefer something from the red family, opt for deeper shades like burgundy or maroon – these shades can make you look sophisticated and powerful without being too bold. They convey confidence and leadership qualities, making them great for leadership roles or senior positions.”
As they say, don’t dress for the job you have but the job you want!
“In short, neutral tones – like navy, gray, black, white, beige, combined with soft, muted colors help create a professional, confident, and approachable appearance for women candidates,” says Sheemi. “Choose colours that complement your skin tone and make you feel confident, because that confidence will come across in your interview.”
(Right: Red done right! Photo by Godisable Jacon/Pexels.com)
Sheemi also shares what colours may not be as appropriate, except perhaps for the most creative of positions in the art, advertising or fashion world. Even then, wear bright colours and patterns with a discerning eye and edit your outfit.
Colors to Avoid:
- Bright Colors (Neon): Colors like bright yellow, green, or pink can be too distracting and come off as unprofessional in many settings.
- Overly Bold Patterns or Prints: Loud patterns or bold prints can shift the focus from your qualifications to your outfit. It’s better to keep patterns subtle.
Confidence is key
To avoid any discomfort or awkwardness during the interview, do test out your interview outfit a few days or the day before the interview. Place a chair in front of a mirror and see how you look walking in, sitting in the chair, while talking, and when getting up. Make sure there isn’t anything appropriate happening – like a skirt that’s too short, perhaps, or your bra peeking out in between your blouse buttons, and change if needed. Also check if whatever you’re wearing is too tight, too loose, or falls over your frame in a weird way.
“If you don’t feel comfortable in what you’re wearing—whether it’s because of fit, fabric, or style—it will likely show in your body language,” says Sheemi. “A test run allows you to spot anything that feels off so you can adjust before the big day. It also helps catch any issues that could distract you during the interview. For example, checking if shoes pinch, if a top wrinkles easily, or if your outfit limits your range of movement.”
Once you’ve eliminated any outfit problems, and you know you slay in that suit, that confidence is sure to shine through.
Strike a pose!
As a last-minute self-cheer before walking into the interview room, Sheemi highly recommends getting a quick confidence boost by striking a power pose.
“It’s a simple trick that can help you feel more self-assured going into a high-pressure situation,” Sheemi affirms. “Right before heading in, find a quiet spot—like a bathroom or stairwell—and stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Put your hands on your hips, straighten your spine, and hold that position. And perhaps some pep talk, such as “you got this girl!”
Sheemi says to do this for about 2 minutes, adding that, “This is like signaling to your body to take up more space and open up physically—both traits of a confident person. And on top of that, it gives you a little mental edge as you prepare to walk into the room.”
(Photo by Roberta Faria Alvez/Pexels.com)
Here’s hoping that all the tips shared here give you more confidence for your next interview, at least in deciding what to wear for an interview other than prepping yourself on how to interact with the interviewer(s).
For more tips from Sheemi, do sign up for her next online sharing session on job interview tips, sometimes joined in by other hiring managers who may also share their insights (as well as questions and concerns) to help interview candidates be better prepared before an interview.
As Director of Strategic Comms and Programme Director of Community Investments & Environment, Sheemi provides leadership, direction, and expertise in the development and implementation of integrated communications strategies such as public relations (PR), branding and stakeholder engagement that further the strategic objectives, plans and vision of Axiata Foundation. She also oversees the project management team of the two pillars in the Foundation, which are Community Investments and Environment.
Sign up for Sheemi’s next session of ‘Navigating Job Interviews: Insider Tips & Tricks’ here.
Malaysian Women's Aspiration Hub 