What Not To Wear When Attending an Interview
What not to wear when attending the interview? When preparing for an interview, it’s easy to focus on your resume, qualifications, and answers to common questions. However, one of the most crucial aspects of making a positive first impression is your outfit. What you wear can speak volumes about your professionalism, attention to detail, and understanding of the company culture. To ensure you present yourself in the best light possible, here are six key things to avoid when choosing your interview attire.
ALSO READ: The Best Road Trips from Johannesburg: Scenic Routes & Must-See Stops
Here are six things to consider when preparing your outfit:
When attending an interview, the way you wear plays a significant role in creating a lasting impression. By keeping these considerations in mind, you’ll be able to present yourself as polished and professional.
First Impressions Matter
Whether we like it or not, interviewers often form an impression within the first few seconds. What you wear plays a big role in that first glance. Looking underdressed or even overdressed can affect how seriously you are taken.
Tip: Always tailor your outfit to match the company culture but keep it polished and professional.
1. Loud Prints and Bright Colours
It’s great to show your personality, but interviews are not the place for neon colours or wild animal prints. These choices can be distracting and shift focus away from your skills and what you’re saying.
What to do instead: Opt for neutral tones like navy, black, white, beige, or muted pastels.
2. Overly Casual Clothing
Even if you’re interviewing at a startup or creative agency, avoid t-shirts, shorts, flip-flops, and gym wear. Casual doesn’t mean careless.
Avoid:
- Graphic tees
- Ripped jeans
- Sneakers (unless company culture allows it)
Better option: A smart-casual look like a button-up shirt with chinos or a blouse and tailored trousers.
3. Revealing Outfits
Too-short skirts, deep necklines, or see-through fabrics can be seen as unprofessional and may make others uncomfortable. You want to be remembered for your words, not your wardrobe.
Tip: Do a “sit and mirror” test if you feel unsure when seated or leaning, switch it out.
4. Too Much Perfume or Cologne
While not clothing, overpowering scents can be distracting or even trigger allergies. Go light or skip the fragrance altogether.
Tip: A clean, fresh scent from deodorant and laundry is more than enough.
5. Excessive Accessories
Chunky jewellery, oversized sunglasses, or noisy bangles can steal the spotlight — in the wrong way. Keep your accessories subtle and tasteful.
Stick to:
- Simple studs or hoops
- A classic watch
- Neat, professional hairstyles
Dress for the job you want, not just the one you’re interviewing for. When in doubt, choose classic over trendy, subtle over bold. Let your outfit say: “I’m here, I’m capable, and I’m ready.”
Looking for more career advice? Explore our interview prep tips here.
