Interview Attire

How you present yourself on an interview is just as important as what you say. We have assembled these quick lists for a reference only. If you still have questions regarding what or what not to wear, please call your SOAR representative. We have included links to retailers that we recommend for your wardrobe purchases. When buying your suit in person be sure to tell the sales associate that you are purchasing interview attire and that you want a conservative combination with a powerful tie.

Interview Attire Tips - DOs

• Make sure everything fits correctly
• Get your clothes ready the night before, so you don't have to spend time getting them ready on the day of the interview
• If your clothes are dry clean only, take them to the cleaners after an interview, so they are ready for next time
• Polish your shoes
• Bring a breath mint and use it before you enter the building

Interview Attire Tips - DON'Ts

• Wear any part of your uniform (tie clips, badges, belts)
• Wear brown shoes with a blue suit
• Wear a short-sleeved shirt with a suit coat
• Display any lapel pins for units, charities, etc..  

Men's Interview Attire - Business Professional 

• Solid color, conservative suit
• White long sleeve shirt
• Conservative tie
• Dark socks, professional shoes
• Very limited jewelry (watch and one ring only)
• Neat, professional hairstyle
• Go easy on the aftershave
• Neatly trimmed nails
• Portfolio or briefcase

Women's Interview Attire - Business Professional  

• Solid color, conservative suit
• Coordinated blouse
• Moderate shoes (no open toed shoes)
• Limited jewelry
• Neat, professional hairstyle
• Tan or light hosiery
• Sparse make-up & perfume
• Manicured nails
• Portfolio or briefcase

Business Casual Attire

Women

• Khaki, corduroy, twill or cotton pants or skirts, neatly pressed
• Sweaters, twinsets, cardigans, polo/knit shirts
• Solid colors work better than bright patterns

Men  

• Khaki, gabardine or cotton pants, neatly pressed
• Cotton long-sleeved button-down shirts, pressed, polo shirts or knit shirts with a collar  
• Matching leather shoes and belt

Resources

Our Process >
Direct Recruiting >
Interview Guide >
Suggested Reading >
Resume Guide >
Attire >