First impressions matter—and in a job interview, what you wear plays a big role in how you’re perceived. But with so many different dress codes out there (business casual, smart casual, professional… huh?), it can be hard to know exactly what to wear.

Whether you're meeting a recruiter on Zoom or heading to a corporate office in person, this guide will help you dress confidently and appropriately for any interview setting.

1. Understand the Company Culture

Before picking out your outfit, research the company. A tech startup might welcome jeans and sneakers, while a law firm expects full business attire. Browse the company’s website, social media, or even employee LinkedIn profiles for clues about their dress code.

If you’re unsure, it’s always better to err on the side of being slightly overdressed than too casual.

2. Business Professional (When in Doubt)

This is the classic "interview uniform" for corporate roles:

• Men: A tailored suit, button-up shirt, tie, dress shoes

• Women: A pantsuit or skirt suit, blouse, closed-toe shoes, minimal jewelry

Business professional is appropriate for roles in finance, law, government, consulting, and other traditional industries.

3. Business Casual (A Step Down, Still Sharp)

Business casual is a more relaxed, yet still polished, look:

• Men: Dress pants or chinos, button-down shirt or polo, optional blazer

• Women: Slacks or a pencil skirt, blouse or sweater, low heels or flats

This works well for interviews at startups, marketing agencies, nonprofits, and education roles.

4. Smart Casual (Creative & Comfortable)

Smart casual blends comfort with style:

• Men & Women: Nice jeans or trousers, a well-fitted top or blouse, clean shoes, and a touch of personality (a statement watch, a patterned shirt, etc.)

Perfect for creative industries, casual tech companies, or second-round interviews where culture fit is being evaluated.

5. Video Interviews – Yes, You Still Need to Dress Up

Just because you're interviewing from home doesn’t mean you can skip the effort. Wear what you’d wear to an in-person interview—at least from the waist up. Bonus tip: avoid patterns that can look distracting on camera, and always check your lighting and background.

6. What Not to Wear

No matter the industry, avoid:

• Wrinkled or ill-fitting clothes

• Excessive perfume or cologne

• Flashy logos or graphics

• Flip-flops or sneakers (unless it's a very casual environment)

Final Tips

• Dress for the role you want.

• Plan ahead—don’t try to figure out your outfit the morning of.

• Be comfortable—confidence is key, and that starts with feeling good in what you're wearing.

Final Thought

At the end of the day, your skills and personality will shine brightest. But a polished, well-thought-out outfit can help you walk in feeling confident—and leave a lasting impression.

Good luck—you’ve got this!