The modern interview dress code: how to make a great first impression

You’ve polished your CV. You’ve applied for the job. The company’s called you for an interview. Well done!

But now comes the interview itself.

An interview can be the most daunting aspect of job hunting. You’re expected to research the role, the company, the salary, and prepare answers to questions like “Tell me about yourself.” Here’s a tip for that one: flip the question back on your interviewer. Ask, “What would you like to know?” There’s a world of difference between sharing your passion for crochet and outlining your professional journey. And on top of preparing for questions like that, you have to think about what to wear.

Careers advisers and job advice sites can labour the point about dressing for an interview. But in reality? It’s not that complicated. Yes, you need to look smart and professional, but your skills and how you show up in the interview should be what gets you the job. I say should, because let’s be honest: some companies still get hung up on appearances.

I’ve heard the anecdotes:

“The candidate was great, but did you see what they were wearing?”

“That skirt was far too short.”

“They looked scruffy.”

“No tie, how unprofessional.”

All these comments have one thing in common: they're irrelevant. Employers shouldn’t recruit based on your outfit. But first impressions matter. People form judgments in less than one-tenth of a second, and it’s all dependent on what they're seeing in front of them. Sure, their opinions can change once you speak, but you need to make an impact the moment you walk in.

There are interview dressing rules that have been taught for decades. They’re taught in schools and widely accepted across all industries. There's no shortage of advice out there.

And yet, people still get it wrong.

Interview dressing is deceptively simple, regardless of your gender identity or the role you’re going for. The default is traditional office wear: suits, smart trousers, blouses, shirts (tie if you’re male-presenting), jackets, and smart shoes that are definitely NOT trainers.

But not everyone can wear traditional office dress. If you have an accessibility or medical reason, you don’t owe anyone an explanation about your attire, because it's what works for you and your body.

If an interviewer comments on your trainers, for instance, you can simply say:

“I have a condition that means I can’t wear dress shoes. Would that be a problem if I took employment here?”

If they say yes, then you’ve just dodged a workplace that prioritises aesthetics over capability. That’s not somewhere you want to be.

Of course, this only applies if it’s a genuine accommodation. If you can wear traditional corporate clothes, then no. You can’t just invent a reason to rock up in trainers and expect it to fly. Interview dressing is about respect: for yourself, for the opportunity, and for the people taking time to meet you.

There’s a difference between dressing with authenticity and dressing with disregard. One says, “I’m here, I’m capable, and I’ve made an effort.” The other says, “I didn’t bother.” And trust me, employers can tell the difference.

Creative industries are the main exception to the “dress corporate” rule.If you’re interviewing at a fashion label, for example, they’ll likely expect something more stylish than a traditional suit. Think polished, expressive, and industry-aware—not just smart, but savvy.

Now, you might be wondering: What about retail or food service?

That’s where things get a little grey. It depends heavily on the type of establishment. A high-end boutique or upscale restaurant may expect a more refined look, while a fast food chain or casual retail store might be fine with neat, clean, and approachable attire.

So what's the answer? Ask about the dress code when you schedule your interview. Your interviewer might be slightly surprised, but that’s okay. Taking a moment to check shows initiative, attention to detail, and respect for the process. Once you know what’s expected, you can factor it into your prep, walk in with confidence, and nail the interview.