The Ultimate Job Interview Dress Code Guide for Men
Never underestimate the power of a well-chosen outfit in shaping your performance during a job interview. From formal to smart casual and even virtual interviews, here’s how to dress for success in any situation.
By Kimberly Chang on 2023-11-27 at 7:11 AM
Updated on 2024-10-04 at 6:59 AM
How to Dress for a Job Interview in Malaysia: A Guide for Men
Gentlemen, deciding what to wear for a job interview can be challenging. First impressions matter, and your outfit can heavily influence an employer’s perception of you. But don’t worry—this guide will help you understand what to wear for any job interview setting, whether it's formal, smart casual, or virtual.
Before you start putting an outfit together, here are a few key things to keep in mind:
- Research the company’s dress code. Check their company profile, social media, and website for clues on typical office attire.
- Invest in a go-to outfit that makes you feel confident and comfortable.
- Keep your grooming and hygiene in check. A polished look goes a long way.
- When in doubt, dress up! It’s always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.
Now that we have that out of the way, here are the three dress codes you need to know to conquer any job interview.
1. Dressing It Up: The Formal Dress Code for Interviews
A formal dress code is the gold standard for most job interviews. It’s your safest option when you’re uncertain about what to wear. Dressing formally helps you project confidence, capability, and professionalism, key qualities that will impress any hiring manager.
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What to Wear for a Formal Interview:
- Stick to a white or light-coloured collared shirt.
- Get a blazer or a two-piece suit (they fix the trouble of matching your jacket to your pants!).
- Find a comfortable pair of trousers that matches your blazer.
- Opt for leather shoes in styles like Oxfords, Brogues or Loafers.
- Don’t skip on socks!
- Optional: A neutral-colored tie, depending on the company’s formality.
- Unless the company specifically mentions it, you can get away with not wearing a tie. But we recommend checking with the company and owning a tie in a neutral colour just in case!
Make sure your clothes are wrinkle-free and fit you well—nothing too tight or oversized. You don’t necessarily need a tie unless the company specifically asks for it, but it’s always a good idea to have one on hand.
Sri (left) and Brian (right) dress to the nines in Bottoms Lab’s Momentum Long Pants.
2. Smart Casual: Striking the Right Balance
Smart casual is becoming a popular choice in many modern workplaces. It offers the best of both worlds—professionalism with a touch of comfort. This style is ideal if you’re aiming for something polished yet relaxed.
What to Wear for a Smart Casual Interview:
- Trousers or chinos
- Collared button-up shirts or flannels
- Blazers or jackets for an added touch of formality
- Sweaters layered over a collared shirt underneath
The key to achieving the perfect balance between sophistication and ease is dressing neat, conventional and comfortable.
Hafiz (left) dresses down his Bottoms Lab’s Momentum Long Pants while Sri (right) keeps things comfortable in Bottoms Lab’s Cool-Flex Jeans.
What Not to Wear When You’re Dressing Smart Casual:
- Running shoes, slippers or sandals
- Shorts, ripped jeans or sweatpants
- Graphic tees, sleeveless shirts, hoodies or shirts with loud patterns
3. Virtual Interviews: How to Look and Feel Your Best
As virtual job interviews become more common, it’s essential to dress as if you were meeting in person. Your outfit has a direct impact on how you present yourself and your confidence, even through a screen.
What to Wear for a Virtual Job Interview:
- Follow the company’s dress code.
- Opt for a white or light-coloured shirt (which presents well on camera)
- Always wear pants—don’t risk an embarrassing onscreen situation!
Remember, your appearance doesn’t stop at your outfit. Ensure your background is tidy and free from distractions. A clean, organised environment enhances your professional image during a virtual interview.
Brian (left) kicks it back in Bottoms Lab’s Cool-Flex jeans, while Hafiz (right) opts for the tried-and-true Momentum Long Pants.
Dressing up for a virtual job interview is slightly different from a face-to-face one. For virtual interviews, you must also consider what you’ll look like through your webcam.
What Not to Wear for a Virtual Job Interview:
- Bright and reflective accessories.
- Small and busy prints like pinstripes or polka dots (these patterns can often look distorted on camera and be distracting).
Conclusion: Dress for Success in Any Interview Setting
Whether you’re dressing up formally, going for a smart casual look, or preparing for a virtual interview, the right outfit can help you feel more confident and leave a lasting impression. Dressing appropriately shows respect for the company’s culture and boosts your chances of interview success.
Explore top companies hiring now at Hiredly. It’s time to put your best foot forward—both in how you dress and how you perform!
By Kimberly Chang on 2023-11-27 at 7:11 AM