Got your interview call? It’s time to prepare yourself for the final step in the selection process. Double check your documents and make sure that you have a professionally formatted resume. Go over the basic questions that are usually asked in interviews concerning the job profile for which you have applied. Wait! Have you worked out the attire that you would be donning on the day of the interview? I guess not.

If you are going for an interview, then the safest bet is to stick to a format attire which usually includes a proper suit. The modern workplace has a good mix of men and women so it is important to understand the do’s and don’ts of wearing suits as applicable for both genders. Check out the following attire tips that you should consider before going for an interview.

Interview Attire for Men

Suit

Stick to a two piece dark colored suit. Make sure that the suit is black, blue or gray. These colors are appropriate for an interview or any other formal occasion. Go for solid colors. Conservative strips can be selected if they are not distractive. You would also be required to choose between a single breasted and a double breasted suit based on your work profile and industry.

Shirt

Get a crisp white shirt that has been cleaned and ironed to perfection. You could also get a blue tailored shirt.

Tie

A conservative tie is the best choice. Make sure you get one that reaches mid belt.

Socks

Get socks in a color that matches your suit.

Shoes

Get polished shoes that match the color of your belt.

Accessories / Jewelry

Remove all obnoxious jewelry, especially visible body piercings. If you have tattoo, then make sure you cover it up.

Fragrance

Make sure you apply cologne sparingly before heading to the interview. Stress can make you perspire more than usual, so using cologne actually helps a lot.

Bag / Folder

It is not necessary to carry a bag. You can easily manage with a folder. But if you really need to bring along a bag, then make sure you get one that looks professional.

Interview Attire for Women

Suit

Stick to a two piece dark colored pant or knee length skirt suit. In case you opt for a skirt, then wear dark tights or neutral colored panty hose.

Shirt / Top

Wear a crisp white or blue blouse along with a tailored shirt to get that perfect professional look. You could also wear a shell with a conservative neck line.

Shoes

Get polished closed toe shoes with moderate heel. Low heels work the best. Even if you have the best branded high heel shoes, now would be a good time to avoid flaunting them. Stick to the basics for the interview.

Accessories / Jewelry

Avoid multiple earrings or gaudy jewelry. Don’t over accessorize yourself. Use a neutral color nail polish to make it less distractive. The focus of the interview should be on your skills and capabilities, and not your makeup or nail polish.

Fragrance

You a perfume that is strong enough to mask body odor but not quite pungent to cause an explosion of fragrance.

Bag / Folder

It is not necessary to carry a bag. You can easily manage with a folder. But if you really need to bring along a bag, then make sure you get one that looks professional. A simple conservative bag will also do.

Now that you know how to dress appropriately for the interview, go ahead and make a stunning impression on the recruiters. All the best for your awaited career opportunity. And don’t forget to take a professional resume with you. Trust me, it makes a lot of difference.