Best Colors to Wear to a Job Interview

Dressing appropriately for the job interview is one way to land the job, but so is wearing the right color. According to TopInterview, “the color you wear can have a powerful effect on an interviewer’s first impression of you.” Believe it or not, each color communicates a different message, depending on which industry suits you.

Consider Your Audience

Do your research on the workplace culture to get a sense of acceptable business attire for the average workday. Typically, in industries like management consulting, finance, or government, darker colors are more appropriate. In a creative field, brighter-colored outfits are accepted while still keeping your look professional.

Which Color to Pick for Your Interview Attire

Resources: Indeed, French Crown, Oliver Wicks, Purdue Global, Verywell Mind - Green, Verywell Mind - Purple, Verywell Mind - Orange

The Professional Color of Choice

When a study was hosted for 2,099 hiring managers and HR professionals, they stated the most recommended outfit color was blue. Their insights showed that blue was associated with someone who’s a team player and someone who is “trustworthy, honest, and credible.” Recruiters have endorsed this color as “prime interview attire.”

Ways to Compliment the Color You Choose

Is blue not your color of choice? Remember these tips can still set your outfit apart from other candidates during the interview.

1. Neutrals over brights
2. Solids over patterns
3. Classics over trends
4. Add an accessory like a tie or headband to make your outfit feel unique
5. Avoid large jewelry or extra high heels
6. Find the fit that complements you

The Final Look

Color is a silent communicator for what you could bring to the table for the company during the interview. When in doubt, mirror your look around the fashion norms in your industry. For a more traditional industry, blues, blacks, and neutrals work well, while for creative industries, green, purple, or yellow are accepted. For all industries, avoid multi-color, reds, and browns.

Which color is best for your interview? Search our open roles to find out.