We’ve all been there; it is the hour before your interview and you feel like you have nothing to wear. Interviews are nerve-wracking enough and you don’t want to waste valuable time stressing about your outfit choices. With the majority of interviews being conducted virtually, the moments before should be used for preparing your answers, not sorting through your wardrobe.
You can streamline this process by creating a capsule collection of staples that will carry you from season to season and easily match the rest of your closet. Now, deciding what to wear for an interview won’t be the feat it appeared to be before.
1 – Collared Shirt
A crisp white shirt never goes out of style. A collared shirt is a clean canvas for any outfit because it allows you to highlight accessories or even a bold blazer. Not only is it versatile, but it can carry you through any season. Although white is a classic, don’t be afraid to be adventurous and try different colours and fabric textures. Interviews are about showing your personality and what better way to do so than through your clothing, especially if applying for a creative position.
2 – Printed or Detailed Blouse
Blouses with prints or unique details and accents are a way for you to showcase your professional and personal brand. Blouses with accents like a tie front or a statement collar are great ways to do a modern take on a classic piece. If you’re interested in making a bolder statement, but one that is still appropriate and on trend, try an animal print blouse. Although this choice certainly makes a statement, prints like leopard act as a neutral and look great when paired with different colour combinations such as, emerald green, pink and, of course, black.
A great blazer pulls an outfit together. This can be thrown over your favourite printed tee or a silk camisole, and it always polishes a look. The boyfriend look fits a bit looser to create a modern, effortless vibe. Although we have linked this piece in a classic black, maybe that’s not your style? Try a neutral tone checkered pattern which makes any outfit look professional or opt for a brightly-coloured version.
A narrow-leg trouser makes any outfit more elegant and sophisticated and can be easily paired with anything in your closet like a great oversized knit sweater. A black cigarette pant is a great staple starter piece for any career as it easily transitions from business to casual by creating a relaxed look with your favourite printed t-shirt. Although most interviews will be conducted virtually and the interviewer will most likely only be able to see you from the waist up, preparing a complete look is a great way to get out of your sweatpants and boost your interview confidence.
5 – A Jumpsuit
Jumpsuits are inherently effortless. The key to making a jumpsuit appropriate for an interview is neckline. Avoid the halter neck style as this is a look suitable for after 5pm. You can pair the jumpsuit with a great knit cardigan or it can be easily layered with a turtleneck or long sleeved shirt.
With this in mind, the most important component of any outfit is confidence. An outfit does not make an interview – you do! Employers want to see who you are as a candidate and gain more insight into your personality. These outfit suggestions are merely to make preparing for an interview smoother by having easy options at the ready so you are able to focus on taking your next professional steps in any industry.
Looking to up your professional edge? Try a Virtual Career Meeting with Style Nine to Five Founder Christie Lohr. In the 1 hour meeting you will be able to discuss the next necessary steps to take in your career or have Christie personally review your cover letter, resume and LinkedIn profile.
By: Demetra Maragos – Demetra is a freelance writer who loves thinking outside of conventional lines while combining her passions for lifestyle and fashion in order to create brand centered messages.
Feature Image: Adobe Stock
