If you’re unsure whether you should wear a suit, a jacket, or even a T-shirt to an interview, you’re not alone.
The right outfit varies depending on the company culture, the position, and the image you want to project. Here’s a simple guide to help you choose the most appropriate interview outfit with confidence.
Before the Interview: What You Should Check
To avoid being underdressed—or overdressed—confirm these two points in advance:
- Company dress code
- The role and company culture
Research online, or directly ask the HR representative or your recruitment agent.
Understanding the dress code is an important clue to understanding the company itself.
Suit Style: The Classic Interview Standard
Your interview begins the moment you walk through the door.
If you want to present a polished, dependable impression, a navy or gray suit is an excellent choice. These colors communicate professionalism, calmness, and attention to detail.
Traditional or major companies in Japan generally prefer a suit for interviews.
Wearing a clean, well-fitted suit also sends a clear message:
“I value this opportunity.”
Smart-Casual Jacket Style: Adjust Your Impression with the Inner Layer
If the interview note says “casual OK,” “no dress code,” or simply leaves clothing unspecified, a smart-casual jacket-and-pants combination is a safe middle ground.
This style strikes the perfect balance:
- More relaxed than a full suit
- More polished than casual wear
- Shows maturity, sincerity, and confidence
Shirt Outfit Ideas
Pairing a jacket with a shirt (without a tie) can still look refined.
This creates a clean but relaxed look—ideal for mid-career professionals or workplaces that appreciate a smart, modern appearance.
T-shirt Outfit Ideas
For creative industries, venture companies, or workplaces known for a casual culture, you can introduce more freedom in your outfit.
- A navy jacket × white T-shirt gives a clean, sincere, and trustworthy impression.
- A mint-colored T-shirt adds a stylish, casual twist and highlights personal taste.
You can express individuality through colors and subtle patterns—but only if the company culture allows it.
However, keep in mind:
- Be sure the company does not require formal attire.
- Avoid this style if you’re unsure about the workplace atmosphere—T-shirts can feel too casual for some interviews.
由于这类穿搭偏轻松休闲，如果没办法确定面试公司的风格或需求，建议不要轻易尝试。
由於這類穿搭偏輕鬆休閒，如果沒辦法確定面試公司的風格或需求，建議不要輕易嘗試。
How to Choose Colors for an Interview Outfit
Safe & Professional Colors: Black, Gray, Navy × White
This color group is universally appropriate and communicates "Cleanliness", "Seriousness", and "Sincerity".
A white shirt brightens your face and improves first impressions.
Color psychology also supports these choices:
- Black: calm, authoritative
- Gray: intelligent, soft, composed
- Navy: trustworthy, fresh, reliable
If you’re unsure what to wear—especially for your first interview—this combination is an easy, foolproof option.
When to Add Personality: Red, Yellow, Brown, Green
Avoid overly bold colors or loud patterns unless you work in a creative field.
However, subtle accents can enhance your look:
- Red: passion, confidence
- Yellow: positivity, energy
- Brown, Green (earth tones): calm, grounded, stable
Choose colors based on the impression you want to give and your personal style.
Choosing the Right Shoes
For interviews, leather shoes come first.
Loafers may be acceptable for some smart-casual settings, but for new graduates and most applicants, classic leather shoes are the safest and most appropriate choice.
Interview Outfit Mistakes to Avoid
To maintain a professional and sincere image, it is important to avoid elements that may appear too casual or distracting. Items such as sandals or open-toe shoes, strong perfumes, and flashy or overly decorative accessories can detract from a polished appearance.
Wrinkled or ill-fitting clothing, dirty shoes, overly colorful socks, or garments with large brand logos may also leave a careless impression. Neglecting grooming—such as messy hair, an untrimmed beard, or unkempt nails—can further undermine professionalism.
Before leaving home, check yourself in the mirror and make sure your appearance communicates: Clean, neat, and composed.
Did this guide help you get a better sense of what to wear to your next interview?
A single jacket can create many different impressions depending on what you wear underneath.
ORIHICA items are designed to be versatile, easy to mix and match, and suitable for both interviews and everyday use.
We hope these tips help you feel more confident—good luck with your interview!
