Making a First Impression: What to Wear to a Job Interview

According to many psychological studies, first impressions are formed within seven seconds of meeting someone; when it comes to job interviews, then, surely your appearance can significantly impact the interviewer’s perception of your professionalism, confidence and suitability for the role?

A Harvard Business School study found that non-verbal cues, including attire, grooming and body language do indeed play a crucial role in hiring decisions; some research even suggest that first impressions can be gleaned within an (unfathomable) fraction of a second – so anyone wanting to nail an interview needs to carefully consider how their presence immediately ‘lands.’  

In the UK, workplace dress codes vary significantly by industry, company culture, and even geographical location. While financial institutions in London still adhere to traditional formal dress codes, for example, a tech start-up in Manchester may embrace a more casual approach; understanding these nuances can give you an edge in making the right first impression.  

Understanding UK Workplace Dress Codes

Different industries have varying expectations when it comes to professional attire. A 2019 study by Totaljobs found that 55% of UK workers felt unsure about what to wear to an interview, with many worrying about appearing either overdressed or underdressed. The safest approach is to research the company’s culture and dress slightly more formal than their day-to-day norm.  

1. Corporate and Finance Roles

(e.g., Banking, Law, Insurance, Consultancy)  

Dress Code: Business Formal 

These industries tend to maintain traditional expectations when it comes to professional attire.  

Men:

• Dark-coloured suits (navy, charcoal, or black)  
• White or pastel-coloured shirts  
• Conservative ties (avoid bright or novelty prints)  
• Polished leather shoes (Oxford or Derby style)  
• Belts that match shoe colour  
• Groomed facial hair (as applicable)  

Women: 

• Tailored suits with trousers or a skirt (knee-length or longer)  
• Smart blouse or fitted shirts (avoid low-cut or overly tight options)  
• Closed-toe heels (2-3 inches) or smart flats  
• Subtle jewellery and makeup  

Avoid:

• Bright colours, loud patterns, or overly trendy fashion  
• Open-toed shoes, excessive perfume, or heavy makeup  
• Ill-fitting or wrinkled clothing  

A polished, conservative look conveys reliability and trustworthiness – two traits that are highly valued in the financial and legal industries.  

2. Business Casual Offices

(e.g., Marketing, HR, Small Businesses, Government)  

Dress Code: Smart Business Casual  

Many UK office environments are shifting towards business casual, with a 2021 Indeed UK workplace survey reporting that the percentage of workplaces allowing casual dress increased from 32% to 50% over five years, with 62% having at least one casual dress day per week. Of course, you don’t want to be rocking up to an interview in what you might guess would pass for casual dress day – so, what items constitute ‘smart business casual?’

Men:

• Smart trousers (chinos or dark dress trousers)  
• Button-up shirts (solid or subtle patterns)  
• An optional blazer for a professional touch  
• Polished leather or suede shoes  

Women:

• Tailored dresses or smart blouses with trousers/skirts  
• Closed-toe flats, loafers, or modest heels  
• An optional blazer or cardigan for layering  

Avoid:

• Jeans, trainers, and t-shirts  
• Overly relaxed or mismatched outfits  
• Heavy accessories or overly casual footwear  

A business casual look balances professionalism with approachability; it signals that you take the interview seriously, while aligning with modern UK workplace trends.  

3. Creative & Tech Industries

(e.g., Media, Design, Fashion, Start-ups, IT)  

Dress Code: Polished Casual  

Creative and tech companies often embrace more relaxed dress codes; however, this doesn’t mean you should turn up in joggers and a hoodie.  

Men & Women:  

• Dark jeans or chinos with a stylish but professional top  
• A blazer or structured jacket for polish  
• Clean, modern footwear (smart trainers, loafers, or ankle boots)  

Avoid:

• Anything too relaxed, such as ripped jeans, hoodies, or gym wear  
• Overly flashy, revealing, or statement outfits  

A put-together yet relaxed look reflects the informal but high-performance culture of many creative and tech firms.  

4. Trade & Practical Roles

(e.g., Construction, Manufacturing, Logistics)  

Dress Code: Smart-Casual/Industry-Appropriate 

If you’re interviewing for a role where practicality matters more than appearance – such as a construction supervisor or warehouse manager, for example – dressing too formally might feel out of place.  

Men & Women: 

• Dark trousers (not jeans) and a polo shirt or button-up  
• Smart yet comfortable shoes (leather or sturdy trainers)  
• A lightweight blazer or smart jacket if appropriate  

Avoid:

• Full business suits (unless interviewing for a senior role)  
• Overly casual looks (e.g., ripped jeans, sportswear)  

A practical yet professional outfit shows that you understand the nature of the job while respecting the interview process.  

You’re Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile

As Dr. Sam Jethwa from Bespoke Smile advises, “A genuine smile during an interview conveys warmth, confidence, and enthusiasm—qualities employers value. If you’re self-conscious about your teeth, whitening treatments can help. For safe and effective whitening, remember that professional assessment is always key.”  

Psychology of Interview Attire: What Your Outfit Says About You 

Research in social psychology suggests that clothing affects both the wearer’s self-perception and how others perceive them. This is known as ‘enclothed cognition’ – the idea that what we wear influences our confidence, cognitive performance, and interactions with others.  

According to a study on the cognitive consequences of formal clothing:  

• Formal clothing increases abstract thinking and strategic decision-making

• Smart casual attire boosts social perception and approachability

• Ill-fitting or inappropriate clothing negatively impacts confidence and performance

Simply put, dressing well doesn’t just influence how others see you – it affects how you see yourself, which can impact your performance in an interview.  

Practical Interview Dressing Tips  

• Research the company – Look at employee photos on LinkedIn or the company website to gauge the dress code

• Choose well-fitted clothing – Baggy or overly tight outfits can appear unkempt or unprofessional

• Grooming matters – Clean hair, neat nails, and subtle fragrance are essential finishing touches

• Check the weather – UK weather is unpredictable (in case you hadn’t noticed), so plan for rain or cold if necessary

• Err on the side of overdressing – It’s better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed

Dressing for Success 

Dressing appropriately for a job interview is about ‘striking the right balance’ between industry norms and personal presentation; a carefully chosen outfit can boost your confidence, create a positive first impression, and subtly communicate your suitability for the role.  

When in doubt, dress one step more formal than the company’s standard dress code – and most importantly, wear something that makes you feel confident and prepared to showcase your skills. Good luck!  

Images JoJo Iles and Sherion Mullings