The Interview Dress Code: What to Wear to Win Your Next Job

Interviews are already stressful enough. The last thing you want to second-guess is your outfit. What you wear won’t land you the job on its own, but it can set the tone before you even shake hands.

The interview dress code is simple: Wear something clean, tailored, and appropriate for the company culture. When in doubt, go one step more formal than the everyday office look. Fit matters more than brand. Wrinkles are never okay.

At Mizzen+Main, we build clothes that help you feel confident, comfortable, and ready—whether you’re walking into a high-rise boardroom or a casual coffee shop interview.

Match the Company’s Culture

The right outfit depends on the environment you’re walking into. A law firm and a design studio have very different ideas of “business attire.” That’s why doing a little research pays off.

If you’re unsure, start by checking the company’s website or social media for team photos. See what people are wearing in meetings or at events. You can also ask the recruiter or hiring manager directly—most will gladly point you in the right direction. And if you still can’t get a clear answer? Err on the side of slightly more formal than you expect.

• Corporate or finance: A suit, collared shirt, and leather shoes are the safest bet. A tie is optional unless the company clearly leans formal.
• Professional business casual: Pair a blazer with a collared shirt, chinos or dress pants, and loafers or lace-ups. It strikes a balance between sharp and approachable.
• Creative or tech: A crisp button-down or polo with tailored chinos or dark 5-pockets, plus clean leather sneakers or loafers, shows effort without feeling overdressed.

Fit and Fabric Matter

You can spend a lot on clothes, but if they don’t fit, it shows—and not in a good way. Clothes should follow your frame without feeling restrictive. Shoulders should align with your natural shoulder line. Sleeves and pants should hit at the right length—no puddling around your shoes, no pulling across the fabric when you move.

And then there’s comfort. The interview itself is enough pressure; your clothes shouldn’t add more. Performance fabrics help keep you cooler, manage moisture, and resist wrinkles so you can focus on the conversation instead of your collar.

Colors and Patterns

Neutral colors are your best friend for an interview. Navy, charcoal, white, and light blue are professional, versatile, and photograph well. If you want to add interest, subtle patterns—like a fine check or light stripe—work without stealing attention.

Avoid anything that pulls focus away from you: bold prints, neon shades, or large logos. You want the hiring manager to remember what you said, not just what you wore.

Don’t Forget the Details

Small things often make the biggest difference. Shoes should be clean and free of scuffs. If you’re wearing a belt, match it to your shoes. Your shirt should be pressed and wrinkle-free. Hair and facial hair should be neat, nails clean, and cologne kept to a minimum.

These details may seem minor, but together they show that you care about presentation—and that you’re likely to bring that same attention to the role you’re interviewing for.

Video Interview Adjustments

Remote interviews change the setting, but not the stakes. Solid colors tend to work best on camera, while busy patterns can distort. Make sure your background is clean and uncluttered, and sit in a spot with good natural light.

And yes—you still need to dress like you’re meeting in person. That means pants too. No exceptions.

The Takeaway

The right interview outfit is one you don’t have to think about once you put it on. It should help you feel comfortable and confident while showing respect for the opportunity.

At Mizzen+Main, we design performance dress shirts, blazers, and chinos that look sharp from the moment you walk in to the moment you walk out—without the wrinkles, sweat, or stiffness that can throw you off your game.

Because when your clothes work with you, you can focus on the conversation that matters most.

Frequently Asked Questions About Interview Attire

1. Can I wear jeans to an interview?

Only if the company is very casual and you pair them with a sharp shirt and clean shoes. Dark denim works best in that case.

2. Should I wear a tie?

If you’re interviewing for a traditional corporate role, yes. For most environments, a tie is optional—focus on a crisp shirt and blazer instead.

3. What’s the best color to wear for an interview?

Navy and charcoal are safe choices. White and light blue shirts work with either.

4. Are polos okay for interviews?

Yes, but only in casual or creative settings. Choose a structured, high-quality polo and pair it with tailored pants.

5. How important are shoes in interviewing?

Very. Shoes are one of the first details people notice, and clean, well-kept shoes signal professionalism.