What to Wear for an Online Interview: A Complete Style Guide

Congratulations! After countless cover letters and some serious CV sharpening, your job application has landed on the right desk and you’ve bagged yourself an interview. You’re keen to make a flawless first impression in your first round… only issue is, the interview is via video call and not in person. If you’re a bit rusty (or even if you’re not!) you might be wondering what to wear for an online interview. No need to panic, we’ve got the low-down on online interview outfits that show you mean business…

Key Principles for On-Screen Style

Online interviews may now be the norm, but that doesn’t mean you can slack on your interview attire. When choosing what to wear for a video interview, it’s important to consider how an online interview outfit might appear differently on camera than IRL. Don’t leave it to chance – do a test run with your camera to see how your outfit looks on screen. Look out for lighting, too. You’re aiming for a flattering glow that doesn’t cast harsh shadows. Natural light from a window works best, but a ring light or soft desk lamp can also do the trick.

Choosing Camera-Friendly Colours & Patterns

When coming up with online interview outfit ideas, colour and pattern play a big part. It’s safest to stick to solid colours – nobody wants to strobe on screen! For smart interview wear, choose neutral hues like blue, grey, white and soft pastels that are camera-friendly. These classic colours convey a calm and professional image and are less distracting than bold patterns. If you truly are a print person (and who doesn't love a fancy pattern?) at least steer clear of busy plaids, eye-catching logos or playful polka dots – you want to keep the focus on you, not your outfit.

The Importance of Fit and Fabric

It’s true that comfort is the key to feeling confident, but while modern workwear has shifted away from being super structured (and we are eternally grateful!) you’ll want to make sure that your job interview outfits are perceived as polished rather than… well, sloppy. Well-fitting clothes look more professional on camera, so seek out soft structure in a tailored jacket or neat shirt. Look out for comfortable yet smart fabrics that won’t wrinkle or bunch up while seated – the rumpled look won’t score you any style points. Finally, choose fabrics that feel breathable and airy, like natural cotton or a lightweight poplin, There’s nothing worse than feeling hot and bothered (dare we say… sweaty?) when put on the spot!

Dressing for the Industry: From Corporate to Creative

Before you decide what to wear for your online job interview, it can help to do your research into the company’s dress code. Take a look at the brand’s careers website and social media to get a glimpse into how people dress there from 9-to-5 as inspiration for your interview outfit. Nowadays some businesses actively encourage candidates to do a little bit of a browsing of their interviewer’s professional profiles, so a quick spin round LinkedIn should also provide insights into outfit expectations. If you’re still unsure, it’s totally fine to ask your recruiter or HR contact to clue you in on the company’s dress code.

Decoding the (Corporate) Dress Code

Different companies have different expectations around office attire (and WFH outfits, of course!), so what works for a small tech startup may not suit a corporate finance firm. When in doubt, it’s always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.

For traditional corporate settings (such as law or finance), opt for more formal attire like a suit and tie, or a button-down shirt with a blazer for men, and for women, a blouse with a blazer or smart dress will have you looking the business.

When interviewing at a more ‘business casual’ company (in tech, marketing or a creative role) you can be a bit more relaxed but still professional. We’re all for a more informal dress code, but sometimes it can be more difficult to navigate. How casj is too casj? Are jeans okay? What about trainers? Even in the most casual work environments (creative agencies, startups) we’d still err on the side of caution and choose a button-down shirt or polo without a tie for men, or a blouse or simple dress for women. When choosing casual interview outfits, avoid overly relaxed items like graphic tees or hoodies.

Online Interview Outfits for Women

Wondering what to wear for video interview success? Let the season be your style guide. For summer interview outfits, think breezy blouses in breathable fabrics—just keep it polished, not poolside. In cooler months, layer up with smart knits or tailored jackets. Whether you're going for casual interview outfits or full-on formal, match your women's workwear to the role. Creative gig? A pop of colour might work. Corporate call? Keep it classic. With these interview outfit ideas, your interview outfits for women will be seasonally savvy and professionally on point.

Blouses & Shirts: Buttoned-Up Brilliance for Your Big Moment

When it comes to what to wear for video interview success, a classic blouse or shirt is your wardrobe’s MVP. Crisp, chic and a total classic, this versatile staple goes with everything from skirts to trousers. Think smart blouses, high-neck tops or button-downs with a twist—like bow-tie details or interesting necklines that pop on screen. For interview outfit ideas, opt for high-quality, non-sheer fabrics that say “I mean business” without shouting it. Interview outfits for women just got a promotion—straight from your wardrobe to the boardroom (well, Zoom-room).

Don't Forget the Bottoms: Trousers & Skirts

Okay, okay… we understand the appeal of secretly wearing sleepwear on your bottom half while working from home. We get it; You’re comfy. You’re cosy. But that relaxed mood is at complete odds with feeling on the tippy top of your game in an interview situation. We advise donning smart trousers or a skirt to feel fully prepared and professional, even if they won't be seen. So, no matter if you are going for a casual interview outfit, give the pyjama pants a miss. This also avoids any potential embarrassment if you need to stand up at any point!

Online Interview Outfits for Men

When it comes to what to wear for video interview success, tailoring your look to suit your profession is key. Whether you're going for a full corporate interview outfit or keeping it cool with a more informal interview outfit, make sure your top half is doing the heavy lifting. A sharp shirt, blazer or knit polo can elevate your mens interview outfit game – just steer clear of anything too loud or too laid-back. For job interview outfits, think screen-smart style. Interview wear that says “I’m hired” before you’ve even said hello? That’s a win-win.

The Blazer & Shirt Combination

A well-fitting blazer over a crisp shirt is a can't-go-wrong option when it comes to men’s job interview outfits. A classic for a reason, the timeless blazer and shirt combo is an integral part of the tried-and-tested men’s interview outfit formula. For online job interviews at the more corporate end of the employment spectrum, simply add a neatly knotted tie for a look that will boss the boardroom. If you’re going for a more casual calling, however, you can forgo the formalities and style your shirt with an open collar instead. Now there’s no excuse for getting hot under the collar…

Finishing Touches: It's all in the Details

Clothes are crucial, but accessories for interviews also go a long, long way. We’re not talkin’ about specific workwear accessories – although if you want to don a Britney-style microphone headset, we’re not gonna stop you – we mean stylish finishing touches, perfect for the office *and* for when you’re off-duty. Here’s what you need to elevate your interview outfits...

Simple Accessories & Great Grooming

When it comes to WFH outfits that wow, accessories and grooming are the cherry on top of your interview attire sundae. Keep jewellery minimal – think stud earrings or a delicate necklace that says “I’m polished” not “I’m partying.” A classic watch will add a touch of timeless style to your inteview outfits (and shows you’re punctual, too!). Hair should be neat and tidy – whether it’s slicked back or softly styled, it should say “I’m ready for business.” These subtle details will complete your interview outfit idea without stealing the spotlight. After all, you want the job, not just the compliments!

Background & Lighting: Set the Scene for Success

Okay, so you now have plenty of interview outfit ideas, but what about your set-up? Firstly, check and adjust your camera angle to make sure you (and your inteview attire!) takes centre stage. The camera should be at eye level, so adjust your laptop or webcam accordingly to avoid awkward angles. Next, your WFH outfit might be on point, but don’t let a messy backdrop dim your shine. When thinking about what to wear for online interview success, also consider what’s behind you. A clean, uncluttered background keeps the focus on you – not your laundry pile or last night’s takeaway. Good lighting is key: aim for soft, natural light from the front (not from behind unless you’re going for the mysterious silhouette look). A well-lit space says “I’m ready for the role,” not “I’m hiding in the shadows.” Bright ideas and bright lighting – now that’s a power combo!

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