What to Wear to a Job Interview

First impressions form in seconds, and how you dress is part of the message. The goal isn't to be fancy — it's to look clean, prepared, and appropriate for the workplace.

Match the industry

• Office / professional roles: business casual is a safe default — a collared shirt or blouse, neat pants or a skirt, closed-toe shoes.
• Retail and customer service jobs: neat and approachable. Look like someone customers would trust.
• Warehouse, trades, and delivery driver jobs: clean, practical clothing. You don't need a suit, but avoid anything torn or sloppy.

When in doubt, dress one step above what you'd wear on the job.

The basics that always apply

• Clothes clean, pressed, and well-fitting.
• Good personal grooming.
• Minimal strong fragrance.
• Shoes clean and in good condition.

Prepare the night before

Lay out your outfit the evening before so a wardrobe scramble doesn't add stress on interview day. Do a quick check for stains, loose buttons, or wrinkles.

Then focus on what matters most

Clothes get you in the door; your answers get you the job. Once you look the part, prepare for the conversation and line up more opportunities on American Job Data.