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Interview Outfit 101: 6 Easy Tips & Advice

interview outfit

First impression matters. In fact, 94% of hiring managers expressed that how candidates dress up their interview outfits for their job interviews sets the stage for the interview session. 

If you’re confident about looking great on paper (such as your majestic resume), the next action plan is to ensure that you dress properly for an interview to look great in real life. This is crucial as it will give an impression that you have respect for yourself and your audience. 

If you’d like to show that you are serious about the job position and that you understand the company culture and workplace dynamic, here is our best advice job interview outfit for working professionals applying for jobs in Malaysia

Job Interview Outfit: Best Advice for Working Professionals

1. Formal Dress Code

If you are applying for jobs that require you to wear professional business attire, such as doctors, bankers, lawyers, etc., you should generally look at:

  • Suits, jackets, blazers
  • Button-down shirt
  • Slacks
  • Blouse
  • Dress pants
  • Statement dress
  • Conservative tie
  • Matching socks
  • Dark leather shoes that are polished

Research the company profile to identify how formal you should be wearing for the job interview. Remember that the first judgement an interviewer makes will be based on your interview outfit – do not mess this up, especially if you are applying for professional jobs.

2. Casual Business

Casual business is the middle point between formal and casual dress codes. Business casual interview outfits are less formal than a suit and tie for example, but are also more formal compared to jeans and sneakers.

With more and more companies adopting the business casual dress code, here are some of the examples you should know:

  • Chinos or trousers
  • Button-up shirt with a collar
  • Blouse
  • Dress pants
  • Matching socks

Even though business casual is less formal, you should look professional and polished regardless. This can be done by looking neat, tidy, and well-dressed even when you’re not wearing formal attire. 

3. Casual & Creative

If the company practices a casual dress code, such as in a fashion company, e-commerce, or clothing boutique, you are allowed to be more creative and expressive in how your interview outfits could be.

For example, jeans may be acceptable now or you are able to dress and accessorise according to the latest trends. However, it’s still important to make sure that your interview outfit is clean, not sloppy, and free from defects such as holes, tears, discolouring, etc. 

4. Colours & Styles Matter

Colours are undoubtedly one of the best ways to express your character, but there are times to tone it down, such as during job interviews. Based on our experiences, the best colours for interview outfits are neutral colours such as black, navy blue, grey, or brown.

Another popular choice is white, which is easy to pair with various bottoms and accessories but is risky as it’s easy to stain it before the job interview. Choosing the right shades of colours can provide interviewers with a good impression, so try to not wear anything too bright or flashy that will distract the hiring manager in a bad way.

One important tip – you don’t have to always stay updated with the latest fashion trends, but you should avoid interview outfits that are older than a few years, especially if they are starting to discolour.

5. Hair & Makeup

Aside from identifying suitable interview outfits, you should pay close attention to your hair and makeup as well because you’d want them to be polished like your entire outfit. Try to schedule a haircut close to the interview if your short hair is growing long, or if you prefer long hair, make sure they are neat and tidy.

Makeups are acceptable but moderation is key. Keep your makeup unobstructive in nature, meaning that it shouldn’t be too flashy until it distracts the interviewer. Play it safe – this includes not having a new hairstyle and using bold lipsticks.

6. What NOT to Wear

If you need a quick guide on interview outfit don’ts, refrain from using:

  • Heavy perfume or cologne 
  • A ton of accessories at the same time
  • Wrinkly, torn garments
  • Uncomfortable or restrictive outfits
  • Outfits with other brands labelled on it
  • Outfits with too many patterns and colours
  • Flip flops

Closing Remarks

Since there are no one-size fits all interview outfits, you’ll have to decide based on the job and company you’re interviewing with. One thing’s for sure, your interview outfits should make the best first impression. 

However, you should also prioritise feeling comfortable and confident when applying for jobs in Malaysia.

Need help on what files to bring to job interviews, or are just confused about why you need to prepare for job interviews? Head over to our Job Majestic blog today to find out!

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Job Majestic TRAIN

Most Practical Talent Matching Partner in Asia

Experience the future of talent matching with our cutting-edge Talent Relevancy Artificial Intelligence eNgine (TRAIN)

Your dream career starts here!