You sharpened your resume, your LinkedIn profile is tailored to a T, and your cover letter reads like professional poetry. Now, the waiting game of constantly staring at your email and checking your voicemail is upon you. That is, until you get that euphoric response: “Would you like to meet for an interview?”
Whether you’re trying to land your first-ever full time gig or you’re one meet-up away from landing the job of your dreams, interviews are always one of the most anxiety-inducing moments in anyone’s professional life. And then there’s this plot twist: it’s not at the office, and it’s not with an HR rep. You’re meeting at a hole in the wall coffee shop with the person who MIGHT become your boss. A casual chat, meant to lessen tension, only makes things so much harder.
While we’re busy trying to keep calm and study our resume like it’s some intricate formula, this question seems to come to mind at the last minute: “What the f*ck do I wear?”
The average skirt suit and or blazer and trousers isn’t going to fly in a more relaxed setting—but just because it’s casual doesn’t mean you should wear a crop top and distressed denim. This is the moment when you need to flex your fashion muscles to their fullest: You have to keep it cool, but still look like you have your shit together.
In need of some professional guidance? Then check out a few of our favorite low-key interview outfits.
Outfit #1: Midi Dress With Ankle Boots
The easiest route is always a statement dress. Just slip on some ankle boots and the tiniest hint of jewelry, and you’re all set. Pair this outfit with a medium-sized tote to carry the essentials (like your resume!).
Outfit #2: Button-Up And Skinny Jeans
A button-up is part of the usual interview uniform, but you can easily give it a more laid-back feel by styling it down with a pair of skinny jeans (and by opting for a printed one, rather than a solid color). Try tucking the shirt in (, or, if you’re a true style expert, give Tan France’s iconic French tuck a try). Finish the look off with a pair of crisp-clean white mules or loafers .
Outfit #3: Long-Sleeve Top And Fitted Trousers
Instead of reaching for your basic straight-legged trousers, try something more fitted. To balance things out, a long-sleeved top with a slightly loose will do just the trick. Plus, a statement shoe (like these embellished red slippers from Aquazzura) will make your outfit unforgettable.
Outfit #4: Corduroy Skirt And Tank Top
A mini skirt and tank top to a job interview? Really? Yes, there is a way to pull this off. Just add a cardigan and a pair of tights, and you’re good to go.
Outfit #5: Jumpsuit
This one requires little-to-no thought or effort. Make a jumpsuit feel your own by piling on the layers and accessories: a pair of loafers and structured coat can help round things out.
Outfit #6: Short Sleeve Dress With Loafers
A little black dress may be simple, but it’s a great canvas to show off your personality. Some accessories, fun shoes, and a statement bag are all you need to make it feel anything but basic.
Outfit #7: Blouse And Statement Pants
Let your pants be the star A playful pair of printed trousers is unexpected but still totally appropriate. Keep everything else, from your top to your shoes, simple.
Outfit #8: Embellished Pencil Skirt
A pencil skirt is usually a more formal take on office-related attire, but there are ways to make it feel more casual . Steer away from your classic plain black version in favor of something colored, printed, or embroidered. Since the skirt is on the fancier side (and looks best with a pair of just-as-fancy heels), let a chunky knit bring ground things.
