In an interview, the way you dress influences the interviewer’s first impression of you. Dressing professionally demonstrates respect, and also shows the employer that you take the interview seriously. It can also boost your own self-confidence during the interview.

In the workplace, the way you dress is important because it affects how others perceive you.  If your clothes are clean, neat and professional, it shows that you take pride in yourself and your position. When meeting with a superior or a client, your professional dress instills confidence in them about your abilities. In fact, 93 percent of executives believe that an employee’s style of dress at work influences his or her chances for promotion.

These days, there is a wide range of acceptable dress in the workplace, from very casual to formal. You should familiarize yourself with the employer’s dress policy, and be observant of the company’s culture. In both an interview and in the workplace, it is always best to err on the side of caution. When in doubt, select more professional, conservative clothing.

Business Formal Guidelines for Men:

Suit: A conservative, two-piece dark gray or a dark blue business suit made of natural fiber

Shirt: A white or light blue, long-sleeved dress shirt that is neatly pressed and has a good fit

Tie: A non-distracting, conservative tie made of 100% silk with a subtle or simple pattern. To learn how to tie a tie click here.

Shoes: Clean and polished conservative dress shoes (lace-ups are ideal), shoes should coordinate with suit and be black or brown

Socks: Black, navy, brown or gray dress socks that are at least mid-calf high

Belt: The belt should match the color of your shoes

Hairstyle and Facial Hair: Well-groomed and neat, no facial hair is ideal

Fingernails: Ensure that they are clean and trimmed

Tattoos: Should be covered

Jewelry: Wedding or college rings are okay, but other jewelry should be removed

Fragrance: Wear minimal cologne (if at all)

Briefcase: A briefcase with a notepad and a pen

 

Business Formal Guidelines for Woman:

Suit: A conservative, neutral color skirted suit or pantsuit

Shirt: A button-up dress shirt or silk shell; make sure neckline is not revealing and top is not too tight or transparent

Shoes: Coordinating closed-toe dress shoes, heel no higher than 2 inches

Hosiery: Neutral color, bring an extra pair

Hairstyle: Well-groomed and neat, does not create distraction by hiding face or requiring strands to be constantly pushed away from eyes.

Makeup: Conservative and natural-looking

Fingernails: Ensure that they are clean and trimmed, neutral polish

Tattoos: Should be covered

Jewelry: Minimal jewelry, classic style

Fragrance: Wear minimal perfume (if at all)

Briefcase: A briefcase, portfolio, or professional and bag/purse with a notepad and a pen