Meet Alice and Mick. They are both 23 years old and have just graduated from universities. They have been looking for their first jobs and recently got calls from companies they applied to. Now, they’re getting ready for their interviews. They have to do some research about their potential employers but also it’s time for them to choose clothes they will wear for their interviews.

Alice has applied for a position of a front desk customer service agent. The job requires a formal dress code, so she’s deciding what to wear. She has two outfits in mind:

Option one is a classic black dress with tights and heels. A little black dress is always in good taste. It should be knee‑length and made of good‑quality material. Some unexpected details such as an asymmetrical neckline will add a bit of a modern look to it. Alice might add subtle textured tights and timeless black heels. Such an outfit will make her look professional.

The second option is a pair of black trousers. They provide a wide range of possibilities because they can be matched with a colourful printed top for more relaxed occasions, or something more classy if the event is formal. For her interview, Alice is considering a plain white shirt. If the day is chilly, she will wear a matching jacket with the trousers. To soften the look, she may decide to wear a grey button‑down sweater. A pair of heels will make it all look very smart.

Alice is also considering some accessories to give her outfit a bit more character, but she’s going to keep it modest. Small silver earrings and a snake silver chain will finish the outfit well.

Mick got a job offer as an office assistant in a social media company.He has read some comments on internet forums and found out that they have a relaxed dress code, and employees often express their creativity through clothing. Mick is in two minds now. He’s considering dressing formally or going for a more relaxed look to fit in.

The classic option consists of a light blue shirt, a navy blue blazer, and matching trousers. It’s a set which is timeless and professional at the same time. This more formal alternative can be softened by adding a funnytie. This way he can let his potential employers know that he understands the norms which usually go with the interview, but he’s ready to become a member of the creative team.

Mick's second option of an interview outfit is a bit risky. It consists of a pair of green chinos, a dinosaur T‑shirt, and a casual checked shirt on top of that. He also chose a pair of moccasins. If he goes for this option, he will have a chance to see how the company reacts to his personal style. He’s not desperate to get this job, so if it doesn’t work out, he’ll keep looking for other opportunities.

After careful consideration and some advice from more experienced friends, Alice decided to go with the formal look, while Mick chose the colourful outfit. They’ll have to wait a few days to see how their choices affect the interview outcomes.

Choosing the right outfit for a job interview is not an easy task, especially if it’s your first interview. That’s why it’s a good idea to follow a few general rules.

First of all, you should research the company culture. You can go through the company’s website, read some comments on internet forums or even ask current employees for advice. This way you will understand the company’s dress code, which will be formal in some, and more casual in others.

If you’re in doubt about what to wear, it’s better to slightly overdress. It means that business casual or formal are usually a safer choice.

No matter which option you go for, make sure your clothes are clean, pressed, and well‑fitted. They shouldn’t be too tight or too baggy. You should also choose neutral colours like, black, navy blue, gray, or white. These colours convey professionalism.

When it comes to shoes, they should be close‑toed, clean and in good condition. Don’t go to meet your potential employers wearing trainers or sandals unless you are sure that the company has a very casual dress code.

You can wear some jewellery or other accessories, but keep them simple. Avoid flashy items which will be distracting for you and the people you will talk to.

You will probably have some documents with you. Bring a professionally‑looking portfolio or a briefcase with you. Avoid carrying many bags because it’s difficult to find anything in them. You are likely to be nervous during your interview and the last thing you need is searching for your resume or notepad in a large bag.

Last but not least, plan ahead. Try your outfit on a couple of days before the interview to make sure everything fits perfectly. Lay your clothes out the night before. This way you will avoid rushing or looking for things on the interview day.

And remember - walk and speak confidently! If you feel comfortable in your outfit, it will be easier.