How to Dress for an Interview in 2024

How to Dress for an Interview in 2024: Quartz Recruitment’s Guide to Making the Right Impression

At Quartz Recruitment, we know that interviews are all about making a great first impression, and what you wear plays a key role in that. With changing work environments and more flexible roles, the ideal interview outfit in 2024 has evolved. Whether you’re meeting face-to-face or online, our tips will help you dress for success and boost your confidence.

1. Research the Company Culture

One of the most important steps before an interview is to understand the company’s dress code. Is the workplace corporate and formal, or does it have a relaxed, creative vibe? A tech start-up may lean towards casual, while a legal firm will expect formal attire. You can find clues by looking at the company’s website or social media, or by asking your Quartz Recruitment consultant for insight.

Our Tip: If you’re in doubt, it’s always safer to be slightly overdressed than too casual.

2. Dress for the Role You Want

The goal is to present yourself as though you already belong in the position. Think about the type of job you’re interviewing for and match your attire accordingly. For executive or corporate roles, a smart suit is usually essential. In more creative or flexible environments, smart-casual attire might be a better fit.

For Men: A well-tailored suit in neutral tones like navy, grey, or black works best. Save bolder patterns for creative roles where personal style is part of the culture. If the environment is more casual, a blazer with smart trousers or chinos can strike the right balance.

For Women: Tailored dresses, skirts, or trousers paired with a smart blouse or blazer are a safe bet. For creative industries, feel free to express your personality with a stylish dress or patterned blouse, while maintaining a polished look.

3. Virtual Interview? Focus on the Upper Half

Many of our clients still conduct interviews online. For virtual interviews, it’s all about how you present yourself on screen. Ensure your shirt, blouse, or top looks professional, clean, and crisp. Avoid busy patterns that could distract from the conversation.

Tip: Check your background before the interview and keep it clutter-free to maintain a professional setting.

4. Footwear Matters

Even if you’re attending a virtual interview where your shoes won’t be seen, wearing professional footwear helps put you in the right mindset. For in-person interviews, shoes are a critical part of your overall look.

For Men: Opt for polished formal shoes like brogues or loafers that complement your outfit.

For Women: Closed-toe heels, flats, or stylish loafers are great options. Make sure they’re comfortable enough to walk in if you’ll be touring the office.

5. Grooming and Accessories Count

A professional, well-groomed appearance will complete your look. When it comes to accessories, less is more.

For Men: A simple wristwatch and a neat hairstyle are all you need. Avoid flashy jewellery or strong cologne.

For Women: Choose subtle jewellery and keep makeup natural. Skip the heavy perfumes and opt for something light or none at all.

6. Comfort is Key

We’ve seen time and time again that when candidates feel comfortable in their outfit, they perform better. While it’s important to look sharp, make sure your outfit allows you to move, sit, and stand with ease. If the interview runs longer than expected, you’ll want to stay focused on the conversation, not your clothes.

7. Consider the Season

Dress for the season without compromising on professionalism. As sustainability becomes more important, consider natural fibres like cotton or linen for warmer weather. For colder months, smart layering with a tailored coat or a classic trench coat will keep you warm while looking sharp.

8. Final Checks

Before you leave for your interview, take a moment to check your appearance. Ensure everything is clean, pressed, and wrinkle-free. For virtual interviews, double-check your camera setup and lighting to ensure you look polished on screen.

Conclusion

At Quartz Recruitment, we understand that dressing for an interview is about balancing professionalism with company culture. By preparing your outfit thoughtfully, you’ll not only make a great first impression but also show that you’re serious about the opportunity. Our team is here to support you every step of the way—whether it’s advice on attire or tips for the interview itself, we’ve got you covered.

Good luck from the Quartz Recruitment team! We’re rooting for you.