Apart from what to wear to your wedding, I think we can all agree that what to wear to an interview is probably one of the biggest wardrobe conundrums. In the Who What Wear office, we’ve spent time discussing the perfect outfit for an interview (down to the intricacies of what kind of hairdo one should adopt). And while we feel like we’ve settled on some some pretty helpful, general advice, it’s also fair to say there’s no rulebook for this kind of thing. So, we figured we’d ask the experts (ourselves included!) and share our top tips with you.
Inspired by some of the most stylish women—and armed with some excellent industry advice—we’ve decoded five outfits that always seem to impress for any office type job scenario. Basically, anything that could end up in a dream job offer will be benefitted by a confidence-boosting, personality showcasing ensemble. No rush jobs or last-minute sweat-patch nightmares here.
To undergird these pitch-perfect interview outfit ideas, we included some exclusive tips from big names like Nina Garcia and Who What Wear’s own co-founder—Hillary Kerr—to find out what works for important interviews.
Style Notes: If you’re a minimalist, stick to being a minimalist to make you feel at your most comfortable and confident. If a suit is usually something you would wear, there’s no reason not to come suited and booted to an interview. Just keep it on brand by wearing an oversized fit, like Alexis, and add your favourite accessories to make it more cool than corporate. Expert Tip: “I’m super impressed by talent who obviously know what looks good on them and exhibit how that can work so powerfully in their favour. When something really suits you—whether it’s a beautifully tailored blazer, high-waisted trousers or a flattering midi dress—it shows that you know who you are, and that confidence permeates how you conduct yourself in so many capacities.” — Christene Barberich, Refinery29
Style Notes: Add a pinch of personality to basics—a tailored blazer and T-shirt with a more detailed skirt and kitten heels, or your favourite jewellery as a potential talking point. Think 80% classic; 20% individual. Expert Tip: “I’d say something relatively polished that still shows your personality. I also suggest wearing either a shirt or blouse with sleeves or a blazer; there’s something a little odd about seeing someone’s bare arms in an interview.” — Hillary Kerr, Who What Wear
Style Notes: Like you would research the job role, make sure you know the type of office environment you may be entering. Checking out Instagram and TikTok is a great way to get an insider look, and once you see the vibe of the existing staff, it may help you determine whether to go casual or on the smarter side. And always walk in with a great coat, bag, or both. Expert Tips: “[Candidates should wear] something that demonstrates a knowledge of what is happening in the fashion world but that highlights their own personal style at the same time.” — Nina Garcia, Elle U.S.
Style Notes: Chic tailored separates are always a good bet, especially paired with an easy-to-walk-in heel, loafers or ballet pumps. Going for tonal separates is always an easy win, too.
Style Notes: While it’s often best to construct your outfit from basics, that doesn’t mean you can’t get adventurous when it comes to accessories. A hair ribbon, bold earrings or some stacked rings that mean something to you can make you feel at your most confident. Expert Tips: “I think jewellery is a great way to personalise an outfit, especially if the pieces you’re wearing are vintage or have some sort of sentimental value.” — Hillary Kerr, Who What Wear
