If you are wondering to decide what to wear on your interviews, this article is for you.
First of all Many Congratulations to you! You have impressed the company by your resume and scored best in your telephonic conversation. Now, It is time to appear for a face-to-face interview for your dream company.
Once you enter the interview room, you have already created an impression without speaking a single word. So, It is important to have a formal dress code for interview in corporate industries like banking and IT, financial services, telecom etc. Formal outfit reflect a person’s strong leadership trait and also exhibit seriousness towards the organization and the interviewer.
Formal interview dress code for males
Top wear:
- Shirts: A light or solid coloured long-sleeved shirt is always a good idea for interview dressing. You can either go for a plain shirt or a one with micro checks.
- Suits and blazers: You can also opt for a formal suit or simply throw on a blazer over a light or solid coloured shirt. For suits and blazers, it is best to go for colours like black, navy blue, dark grey, dark brown, etc.
Bottom wear:
- Trouser: Choose a dark-coloured trouser, preferably in black, grey, or blue color. You can experiment with the fit of the trouser with a slim, medium, or regular fit. Prefer a plain trouser over a printed one.
Footwear:
- Socks: Select a plain pair of cotton socks that match with the colour of your trousers.
- Shoes: A pair of formal shoes will complete your look. Choose a comfortable pair of shoes. It is always a safe bet to go for colours like black or tan in shoes.
Accessories:
- Tie: Put on a traditional tie to complete the formal look. For the tie, it is advisable to select a color and pattern that complements your shirt.
- Belt: Add a hint of style with a solid textured belt. You can select colors like black, brown, or dark blue in belts.
- Watch: Add a finishing touch to your look with a classic watch.
- Bag: Carry a basic brown or black small laptop bag or briefcase for your documents.
Basic etiquette: Keep smartphone on vibrating or mute mode during an interview so that both candidates and interviewer do not get distracted with a loud message alert or phone call.
Points to remember for male interview dressing
- Avoid loud colors/prints in shirts. Avoid flashy ties.
- Always wear clean and well-pressed clothes.
- Make sure your shoes are free from stains and dust.
- Do remember to wear a mild deodorant.
- Opt for a clean-shaven look or a well-trimmed beard look.
- Apply a limited amount of aftershave.
- Maintain neatly trimmed nails.
- Carry resume and important documents in a briefcase or laptop bag.
Formal interview dress code for females
Unlike males, females have a large number of options as a formal dress code. Some of the most commonly professional interview dress code for females are as below:
Traditional wear:
- Traditional Indian suit: A well-fitted traditional Indian suit is a good option for female candidates. However, avoid wearing a tight-fitted suit with glitter, lace, or animal print.
- Saree: You can also opt for a simple cotton saree in solid or pastel colors for a formal look.
Western wear:
- Pantsuit: A dark or pastel coloured pantsuit with light coloured shirt makes for a classy interview dressing.
- Formal dress: A well-fitted, knee-length dress in straight style is also a good option for female candidates.
- Shirt/Top: Full-sleeved or half-sleeved shirt or top with a knee-length pencil skirt is acceptable as professional dress code. Choose light and pastel shades for shirt/top with minimal print.
Footwear:
- Pumps: Pumps look impressive with almost any outfit. They are also versatile and stay in fashion forever. Make sure to choose a comfortable heel or go for flats
- Shoes: Formal women shoes with fairly low-heel look impressive. Go for colors like black, tan, beige, blue, dusky pink, etc.
Accessories:
- Handbag: Female candidates can carry a smart and basic hand bag to keep their documents in place. Go for neutral shades or basics colours like black, tan, and blue.
Hair and makeup:
- Minimal make-up. A hint of blush, mascara, and natural-colored lip gloss are usually enough while going for an interview. You can also add a bit of kohl and eyeliner, if you wish.
- Nail paint: Choose neutral colors for nail paint.
- Hairstyle: Hair should be neatly styled in a basic manner. Generally, a low or high ponytail looks good with suits and skirts. You can also opt for a well-combed straight hair look. Another formal hairstlye that goes well with msot outfits is a low and polished bun.
Points to remember for female interview dressing
Have a look at these key points:
- Avoid wearing sleeveless shirts and suits as it imparts causal look.
- Make sure your outfit is neat, clean, and well-pressed.
- Wear a mild deodorant or perfume.
- Keep your nails clean and well-shaped and avoid very long nails.
- Make sure your hair is fresh and clean.
- Avoid hair accessories that are flashy or shiny.
- Avoid gaudy bracelets and dangling earrings. It may spoil the formal look.
- Avoid wearing stilettos for an interview; reserve them for parties.
- Avoid carrying huge handbags. Opt for a subtle coloured and medium-sized handbag. You can even go for a briefcase or small laptop bag instead.