Landing an interview is an important step in your job search. How you present yourself, from answering questions well to positive body language and what you wear, can make or break the opportunity to progress further in the screening process.
While there aren’t hard and fast rules of what to wear or not wear for job interviews, these general suggestions can help guide your outfit choices.
Generally unacceptable interview wear includes:
- Shorts
- Short skirts or dresses
- Tank tops
- T-shirts
- Low-cut or cropped shirts
- Hoodies or sweatshirts
- Flip flops, open-toed shoes, or dirty or scuffed shoes
- Clothing that is ill-fitting, distressed, torn, stained, or overly worn
- Distracting clothing or accessories like bright-colored items, noisy jewelry, unkempt hair, messy makeup, or strong perfume or cologne
Dress to Impress
Your interview outfit should be clean, polished, and well-fitting. Shoes generally should be closed-toed, clean, and undamaged. Hair and makeup are subjective but should be well kept and clean.
If you choose to bring a bag to carry copies of your resume or work samples, a small notepad and pen, or a water bottle, choose a reasonably sized, non-distracting bag, and avoid backpacks if possible. Store any papers in an undamaged, neutral-colored folder. Travel light and keep one hand free for introductions, collecting business cards or other handouts, and opening doors if needed.
Expectations of appropriate interview wear vary across industries, workplaces, and even recruiters’ or hiring managers’ preferences. If the dress code is unclear, err on the side of dressing more professionally, or ask for clarification from the person scheduling your interview. This may be a recruiter, HR representative, the direct supervisor, or your Express Healthcare Staffing representative.
What to Wear for a Job Interview
Aim to dress at least business casual and avoid wearing scrubs. Use these pointers to steer your outfit choices.
- Blouse or button-up long- or short-sleeve shirt
- Slacks, pencil or A-line skirt, or dress
- Clean, closed-toed shoes like dress shoes, loafers, oxfords, heels, or ballet flats
About Express Healthcare Staffing
Express Healthcare Staffing is in the business of people. We support local hospitals, clinics, and long-term facilities with exceptional medical professionals seeking new career opportunities. Through an individual approach to healthcare staffing, we help ensure the right fit for both the facility and the professional. For more information, visit ExpressHealthcare.com or ExpressHealthcare.ca. Find the location nearest you in the U.S. or Canada.
Last Updated on April 9, 2026
