What to Wear to an Interview to Get Hired (Female Edition)

You’ve got ONE chance to get this right, so you have to exploit this opportunity to impress your interviewer!

I’ve interviewed about 100 people (if not more) in my previous job as an HR executive, and I’d like to confirm one thing: a VERY big majority fails to take advantage of their nonverbal communication – and this includes their image, what they’re wearing, and how they carry themselves.

If your goal during this interview is to project that you’re capable and qualified for this position – not just on paper but also through your image – then keep reading as I’ll show you exactly how to do that!

What to Wear to an Interview to Get Hired (Female Edition)

Do Your Research First

I’m sure you’ve already researched the company culture before applying, right? That’s where you should start! Look at their LinkedIn accounts, check out the profile pictures of employees. That way you’ll get a feel for what the dressing culture is like.

If you see they dress formally, then perhaps that’s the best way to go. If they’re more casual, then professional-casual attire is an option – although I don’t always recommend it.

Here’s the thing: the marketing person on Wall Street dresses differently than the marketing person at a tech startup. If you’re in finance, you’re expected to look like the folks from Wall Street – tailored suits and polished shoes! When I worked in beauty, I expected applicants to at least have a little makeup on and their hair done, because ultimately that’s what they’re trying to sell: beauty!

The ultimate goal? To stand out from other applicants, be remembered by your potential employer, and land this job! You have to convince them you’re the RIGHT person. Once you’re hired, it’s okay – you’ll adapt to the company’s dressing culture and might even bring it down a notch. But for NOW, dress the best possible way!

Create Your Interview Uniform

I understand that selecting outfits for interviews can be overwhelming. When I was actively job hunting, I had about two go-to looks for any important professional meeting. It saved me SO much trouble! I knew exactly what to wear with what shoes, accessories, hairstyle – everything!

I highly recommend having an interview uniform. It’ll simplify your entire dressing process!

Step 1: Pick Your Power Colors

The strongest colors for interviews are: blue, green, black, red, and white.

If you’re super detail-oriented like me, go even more specific! If you’re warm-toned and wearing gray, go for a light or warm gray. If you’re cool-toned, choose a cooler and darker gray. Wearing the right color according to your undertone will make sure your skin looks fresh and radiant!

Step 2: Dress for Your Body Shape

Make sure whatever you pick is correct for your body shape. Try to dress your shape the best way possible by creating a balanced silhouette.

If you’re proportional top to bottom: Wear anything that hugs your curves – fitted but not too tight! Shaped blazers or wrap dresses are perfect for you.

If your shoulders are broader than your hips: Focus more on the hip area to create balance. Wear darker colors on top to take attention off the shoulders, and peplum-style jackets are great for creating curves around your waist.

If your hips are wider than your shoulders: Draw attention upward! Blazers with power shoulders that widen your upper body work beautifully, as do dresses with details around the shoulders.

If you have a wider or less defined waistline: Create the illusion of a waist! Black or dark jackets left open create vertical lines that are slimming. Tube skirts that define the hips and waist, or wrap dresses with waist-defining patterns are ideal.

If you’re lean top to bottom with a less defined waist: Structured blazers are your best friend! A-line bottoms or dresses that accentuate the waist work wonderfully. Belts are also a great accessory for you!

The Perfect Interview Outfit Breakdown

Tops: Collared shirts are best! Your shirt could have nice ruffled or button details on the shoulders, cleavage area, or cuffs for an interesting look. Neutral colors are always safe and classic, but feel free to play with muted colors – they’re more preferable than bright ones. You want to stand out while embracing modesty! I’d avoid animal prints or any loud patterns.

Bottoms: Wear trousers with a crease line running down vertically for a sharp, sophisticated look. Long or cropped pants are both okay according to your body type. I would avoid jeans – they can appear too casual. Pants should be the right fit – not too loose and definitely not skinny!

If you’re wearing a skirt, a high-waisted pencil skirt is extremely smart! Just make sure it’s at knee length, not below the knees.

Blazers & Suits: If you’re wearing a complete suit, go for a single-breasted one! Tailored or classic-shaped blazers bring the whole outfit together. The blazer shouldn’t be below hip level or too long.

Shoes: Heels or flats are fine – just be CERTAIN you’re extremely comfortable walking in them! You do NOT want to wobble or trip your way into that interview. If your interview is with a conservative company, go for neutrals – they’re always safe and elegant. Think nude, brown, or black. If you prefer flats, loafers or pointed-toe flats or sleek flat boots are preferable.

The Finishing Touches

Accessories: These are expressive, so make it personal! Pick sturdy, well-shaped bags for a polished look. For jewelry, subtle goes a long way – opt for sophisticated watches, earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and rings. Brooches are elegant additions to suits or blazers!

Hair: Whatever you choose, make sure your hair is away from your face! You can rock sleek straight hair behind your shoulders, loose wavy hair, a high or low bun, a sophisticated ponytail, or neat braids.

Makeup: Keep it natural and well-blended! Your foundation should match your skin complexion naturally, giving you a healthy glow. Avoid colorful eyeshadows – use very light brown shades. For lipstick, go for light colors. Add a little blush for that healthy glow!

Nails: Details matter! Nails must be well-kept with light-colored polish or a French tip manicure.

Fragrance: This can be tricky! You never know if your interviewer enjoys perfume or is allergic to it. Instead of your signature perfume, go for something subtle – powdery scents, a little jasmine, maybe amber, or water-type scents. And don’t overdo it!

Bring Your A-Game & Confidence

Last but not least – remember these are regular people just like you and me! Deep down inside, they really WANT you to win and be the right fit for this position.

You look good, you feel great! Stand with great posture and walk in there like the superstar that you are. Best of luck – I believe in you!