Between prepping your talking points to timing out your commute so there’s no risk of running late, job interviews can be pretty stressful. That’s why we want to take another task off your plate: choosing the perfect outfit. Here are seven job interview outfits that go beyond a typical suit, so you look stylish and sleek (not stiff and stodgy).
The 7 Best Outfits for Every Type of Job Interview
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Published Jun 6, 2017
Account Manager: A Printed Blouse + Pencil Skirt
If the company you’re interviewing for has a business-casual dress code, you can stick to classic workwear staples like silk blouses and pencil skirts, but try them in fun prints and fabrics like chambray.
Get the look: Diane von Furstenberg blouse ($298); Ann Taylor skirt ($89)
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Financial Advisor: Fitted Blazer + White Separates
Think of this combo as the modern-day version of black or navy pantsuits. It’s proof that bright, summery shades can still work for corporate environments so long as the fit is just right.
Get the look: Banana Republic blazer ($168); CeCe pants ($109)
Publicist: Moto Jacket + Fitted Midi Dress
Perhaps the most versatile option across various industries, a midi dress is refreshing (especially during warmer months) but still demure thanks to its length. Plus, you can easily drape a jacket or cardigan over your shoulders for added polish.
Get the look: Rebecca Minkoff jacket ($498); St. John dress ($777)
Web Developer: Fitted Trousers + A Long Jacket
While it might be awkward to show up to a casual office environment overdressed in heels and a sheath, being underdressed for a job interview is far worse. Try pairing some crisp trousers with a loose-fitting jacket to find a happy medium.
Get the look: Zara jacket ($70); J.Crew pants ($158)
Teacher: A Printed Dress + Top Handle Bag
Now is not the time to take risks with pieces that kinda-sorta fit. When dressing for a job interview, you want to wear something that's professional but also makes you feel comfortable. A ladylike dress in a fluid fabric flatters just about every body type and allows you to take your mind off your clothing and concentrate on the questions being thrown at you.
Get the look: Chelsea 28 dress ($89); Talbots bag ($120)
Legal Counsel: Monochromatic Colors + Military Details
Heading into a more corporate environment? Two classic trends that look especially sleek when paired together are monochromatic dressing and military details. The end result is buttoned up, without looking too buttoned up.
Get the look: Eloquii dress ($100) and layering blouse ($65)
Memorandum
Art Director: Neutral Colors + Interesting Details
If you’re interviewing for a position in a creative field, you want to show some sense of your aesthetic through your wardrobe. One way to do this is through unexpected cuts (like a one-shoulder neckline) and ornate details (like exaggerated ruffles on one pant leg). Just keep the color palette neutral so you don’t look like you’re headed to the Met Ball.
Get the look: Theory top ($255); COS trousers ($115)
