Dressing for an interview is never easy.
But to hopefully take some stress out of what to wear (so you have time to concentrate on preparing for the meeting itself), we’ve put together this handy guide.
First things first, the golden rule is that if you feel good, you’ll be confident and come across well. Whilst it’s entirely down to the type of job you’re going for, whether you’re applying for a finance job in the heart of the city or as a graphic designer in East London, there’s always a way to add a sprinkling of your character whilst still adhering to the formality of the interview - whatever that may be.
Although wearing “traditional” workwear is an option, unless you want to end up looking like a contestant on The Apprentice, we’d advise channelling your personality with an added touch of refinement, so the interviewer gets a sense of the best version of you.
Try not to wear anything particularly informal (anything emblazoned with logos, distressed denim, hoodies, and sweatshirts, we’re looking at you…), and instead look for pieces in your wardrobe that make you feel pulled together and confident. Whether it’s a pair of tailored wide leg power trousers, your favourite blazer, or even a stylish leather tote bag that’s large enough to fit your resumé and laptop (perhaps leave the backpack at home…), as long as you look sophisticated and comfortable, you’ll be on track for success.
For inspiration, take a look at The Row’s aesthetic, which is a masterclass in understated luxury. Classics with a twist are always a surefire win, and don’t be scared to shell out some cash for that one piece that will make you feel your best. From a shirting with elevated details, like a peter pan collar or balloon sleeves, to an expertly made blazer, our top tip would be to head to luxury retailers MatchesFashion, Net-A-Porter, and Selfridges which have countless options that tick all of the boxes.
When it comes to the colour palette, keeping it relatively classic is your best bet, with nothing too showy or flashy. Whether you prefer the fresh tones of blue or the earthy tones of green, go for the richer or more muted iterations as opposed to the brights. Accessorise with quality jewellery from brands like Maria Black, Alighieri, or Missoma, with pieces like classic hoops and simple gold chains, as well as all of your favourite personal treasures, of course.
If you keep scrolling you can find some key pieces that will help you feel cool, calm and collected in the run up to the meeting that could be the next important step in your career journey.
The Shirt
Toteme Monogram-embroidered silk-twill pyjama top
Whilst Toteme’s shirt features embroidery of the brand’s signature monogram logo, it’s subtle enough to look like an Art Deco pattern as opposed to anything remotely logomania. Crafted using 100 per cent silk, with a sophisticated version of a pyjama collar, it will keep you feeling easy breezy when even the trickiest of questions are fired your way.
Buy now £510.00, MatchesFashion
Cos Oversized Waisted Poplin Shirt
For contemporary classics, Cos is the place to go. You can’t go wrong with a poplin shirt, and the Scandi high street hero’s design features all of the elevated details you could ask for. Slightly oversized, with a nipped in waist thanks to a part elasticated waistband and front darts as well as voluminous sleeves and a sharp point collar, it looks far more expensive than its £69 price tag.
Buy now £69.00, Cos
The Trouser
Arket Hopsack Wool Trousers
Interview or not, a pair of well-fitting, structured black trousers is a necessity in every wardrobe - and where better to get them from than Stockholm-based Arket? Known for its minimal yet high quality collections of wardrobe staples, these trousers showcase just how adept the brand is at taking basics to the next level. Crafted using a responsibly sourced hopsack wool, they’re an airy, well constructed design with front pleats and a high waist. Even better? They’re naturally resistant to wrinkles.
Buy now £89.00, Arket
Raey Wide-leg wool-blend trousers trousers
A great pair of trousers goes a long way, and Raey, MatchesFashion’s own brand, boasts a strong selection of expertly cut styles that will happily live in your wardrobe for years to come. This high waisted, pleated, grey design could even be worn simply with a tucked-in white T-shirt and blazer for a relaxed yet refined look - to up the formal ante, you could switch the T-shirt with a loose fitting shirt or blouse instead.
Buy now £350.00, MatchesFashion
The Bag
Oroton Margot medium textured-leather tote
Showing up with a quality bag is an instant way to make a good impression. Large enough for a laptop, resumé, and your all-important essentials, Oroton’s tote features a zip closure, an adjustable handle, and a super soft suede interior. Crafted using a supple textured leather with subtle foil embossing, it’s a masterpiece in minimalism.
Buy now £395.00, Net-A-Porter
Demellier The New York
For an added touch of je ne sais quoi, Demellier’s croc-embossed leather tote takes the classic bag to the next level. With gold logo and hardware, a popper closure, and a cotton lined interior, any interviewer would be impressed.
Buy now £495.00, Demellier
The Blazer
Weekday Norma Double Breasted Blazer
You can count on Weekday for a blazer in a contemporary silhouette. We’d suggest erring on the relaxed side of the fit, or else risk looking restricted and slightly too traditional. A classic black will compliment almost any outfit. This boxy double breasted style features lightly padded shoulders and two flap pockets, and you can even wash it in the washing machine. For £69, it’s a no brainer.
Buy now £69.00, Weekday
Aligne Goddard double-breasted recycled-polyester blazer
Crafted using recycled polyester, sustainable brand Aligne’s dark brown blazer is slightly oversized, and will pair perfectly with warm neutrals and black. With the option of wearing it as single or double breasted, it’s a versatile piece that’s the perfect update to any tailoring collection.
Buy now £139.00, Selfridges
The Shoe
G.H.Bass Weejuns Penny Loafers Cognac Leather
Having enjoyed time in the spotlight since 2015, when Alessandro Michele revived Gucci’s 1970s aesthetic, the humble loafer is a comfortable and stylish formal footwear alternative for those who can’t stand wearing heels. Worn with boyfriend trousers, a suit, or even a dress, they will add a sprinkling of cool-girl-chic to any interview look.
First designed in the 1930s, G.H.Bass’ iconic Weejuns has stayed the same througout the 100 years since, and they’re available in a range of colours so you can find the perfect shade to suit.
Buy now £150.00, G.H.Bass
Manolo Blahnik Navy Blue Suede Kitten Heel Mules
Does it get any better than a pair of Manolo Blahniks? A favourite of Carrie Bradshaw and Blair Waldorf, among countless real-world A-List celebrities, the label’s iconic kitten heels are sure to garner interest from even the most difficult of interviewers. Keep it toned down with the suede alternative to the brand’s classic crystal buckle - our favourite is the navy.
Buy now £575.00, Net-A-Porter
