Juan Satizabal/Columnist
Photo courtesy of jakandjil.com
For the most part, interview attire has remained somewhat the same from decade to decade, it basically is business attire. Dressing for an interview is probably one of the events where dressing your best matters the most—it is the time where you are being judged to see if you qualify for the job you want, and looking outdated or simply bad can be the decision factor in getting that job.
When dressing for an interview, remember this combination: Simple and smart. If your outfit is simple and smart, you are good to go. Dress simple to show efficiency, and so your clothes don’t do all the talking. Dress smart to show you know what you are doing—nothing makes it seem more like your life is together than dressing smartly.
So you’re going to an interview, what exactly do you wear? A business suit of course, but not the go-to black one. Black suits can be too serious for an interview.
Instead, choose between gray and navy. Be today’s modern man and make sure your suit is fitted. At all cost, avoid looking baggy or like you don’t fit your clothes. As for your shirt, choose a light color (which really means that you should wear white). Leave the dark shirts for the nightclub, and even then, second guess wearing them.
The details in your outfit are what can get you remembered. It is easy to have too many details, but for an interview, it is best to keep it minimal and simple—basics are key.
For a tie, make sure to choose a tie that’s not too wide, yet not too skinny. There is a thin line between choosing a tie that’s stylish or crazy, so be careful. A good choice would be a preppy plaid tie because it has a classic pattern yet it won’t look dated if you choose a modern color.
Choosing to wear a pocket square isn’t a bad idea; it can demonstrate that you care about details. If you do happen to wear one, make sure it matches your tie.
As for shoes, it’s best to go safe with a black color. Make sure your shoes are well polished; the state of your shoes is an easy way to be judged positively or negatively. Always match your belt with your shoes (black shoes, black belt), if you didn’t already know this, where have you been?
Grooming can be more important than what you wear. Therefore, make sure your hair is neat and in-place, your beard is cleanly trimmed, and your nails are cut.
When dressing yourself for an interview, an important thing to consider is the job you are applying for. For instance, if you are applying for a creative position, instead of wearing suit, wear slim-fitted chinos, paired with a sports coat—a more relaxed look.
Remember, simple and smart!
Juan Satizabal is a guest columnist for Haute Topic, specialized in men’s fashion.
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