Dressing for an Interview? What a Man Should Know

Interviews aren't the time or place for fashion trail blazing. Deviating from the long-established attire standards may prove deadly. Follow these simple tips, and leave your sense of fashion adventure in the lobby. 

By Chris Alfe, Thingamajob Staff Writer

The Suit

Colors: Interview suits should be navy blue or charcoal gray. Some brown suits are acceptable depending on the pattern and the shade (and, of course, the environment of the interview), but should generally be avoided;  they aren't worth the risk. Earth-toned colors, like tan, light gray or olive green, aren't formal enough and shouldn't be worn no matter how expensive or trendy they might be. Black suits are plenty formal, but may be inappropriately flashy. You have always two safe choices: navy blue or charcoal gray.

Pin Stripes: Pin stripes are permissible, but only if they are subtle. VERY subtle. They add a touch of flair and can liven up a gray suit nicely.

Style: As with color, you aren't given a lot of latitude here. You should wear a two or three buttoned, two-piece suit. Four buttoned suits may be seen as too trendy, and three-piece suits may be viewed as out of style or, worse yet, ostentatious.

Fit: Suit jackets should fit so that they can be easily buttoned without any significant tug marks across the fabric. The arms should be long enough so that about a half an inch of your dress shirt can be seen beyond the cuffs when your arms are relaxed by your side. If you have a "normal build" (a typical shoulders-to-waist ratio), then your ideal suit size is your chest size. If you have a "distinctive build," then you'll definitely want to get measured by a tailor.

The Shirt and Tie

Color and Collar: White shirts are the safest and most conservative. Cream, almond and pale-blue shirts are also acceptable as long as they are solid without any stripes or patterns. Point collars are recommended for an interview, but spread collars are fine as well. Avoid cotton-blend shirts, polyester shirts, or any shirts with a shiny finish such as rayon. Shirts should be 100% cotton.

Tie Color and Size: Wear a tie between 2-3 inches wide. It should feature a traditional pattern and be made of pure silk. Don't wear trendy ties or ties made of anything besides 100% silk. Your tie should reach, but not exceed, the top of your belt buckle. (At some point, in the late 90s, some college men got the idea that ties should reach the crotch of their pants, far exceeding their belts.  This is not an accepted, professional practice.)  And please, do not wear a bow-tie to an interview. Ever.

The Knot: Windsor knots are generally preferred at job interviews as they are arguably the most conservative. Four-in-hand knots are fine as well. Knots should be neat and fit within the space created by your choice of collar. If you insist on wearing an alternative knot style, such as a Shelby, you'll want to choose a white dress shirt with a spread collar that will accommodate it. Lettered tie-tacks are fine, but avoid any religious or political insignias.

The Shoes and Belt

Shoe Color and Style: Interviewees should wear black, oxblood or brown leather shoes. Black shoes are strongly recommended as they match almost with any suit, and are easy to coordinate with a belt. Rubber soles are acceptable if they are low profile (that is without noticeable treads). Loafers are forbidden.

Belt: Your belt must always match your shoe color. Large or flashy belt-buckles aren't permissible, but suspenders are, provided that they fit properly.

Miscellaneous

Socks: Socks should be dark and complement your suit. They should be long enough, at least mid-calf length, so that no one can see your leg when you are seated.

Jewelry: Only wedding rings are universally permissible for men. It's recommended that you remove all other jewelry, including earrings, for an interview. College rings are typically acceptable for younger interviewees. Cufflinks, provided that they are small and conservative, are fine.

Briefcases: A small leather briefcase or portfolio is recommended to carry your notebook and resume. Do not bring a large briefcase or everyday bag with you.

Cologne: Be careful! Remember that you'll probably be interviewing in a small, stuffy conference room. Use little cologne, or none at all.

Hair: Hair should be clean and well kept. Shorter hair is generally considered to be favorable. Facial hair is discouraged, although well-groomed mustaches are usually acceptable.

Chris Alfe is a staff writer for thingamajob.com.  He has ten years of experience in staffing and human resources and currently resides in Baltimore, Maryland.

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