Quick Interview Dress Rules (Summary Reference)

Interview Dress Basics: What Interviewers Expect

The Psychology Behind Interview Attire

Interviewers form first impressions within 7–10 seconds of meeting you. Your appearance communicates professionalism, attention to detail, and cultural fit before you speak a single word.

Understanding Dress Code Terminology

Before choosing your outfit, understand what these common terms mean:

Business Professional (Formal)

Full suits, ties, formal shoes, conservative colors. Standard for corporate, banking, law, consulting, and senior roles.

Business Casual

Collared shirts without ties, blazers (optional), dress trousers or chinos, closed-toe shoes. Common in IT companies and modern offices.

Smart Casual

Clean dark jeans or chinos with structured tops, blazers, neat shoes. Acceptable at some startups and creative companies when explicitly stated.

Traditional Formal (India)

Simple saree, formal salwar-kameez, or kurti with trousers or churidar in conservative colors. Widely accepted across Indian workplaces.

The “One Level Above” Framework

The safest interview dressing strategy:

1. Research what employees typically wear (check company social media, website photos, employee LinkedIn profiles)
2. Choose an outfit one formality level above their daily dress
3. Examples:
   • Company wears jeans and T-shirts → You wear smart casual (dark jeans + collared shirt + blazer)
   • Company wears business casual → You wear business professional (full suit or equivalent)
   • Company wears business professional → You stay business professional with extra attention to grooming and fit

Women’s Interview Outfit Guide — Formal to Business Casual

Find professionally styled outfit ideas for every interview scenario — from corporate to creative roles.

Interview Dress for Men: Formal & Semi-Formal Guide

Business Professional (Corporate, Banking, Law, Government, Senior Roles)

The Full Suit

• Suit colors: Navy, charcoal grey, or dark grey—these are universally professional and safe
• Fit: Jacket should button comfortably without pulling; sleeves end at wrist bone; trousers break slightly at shoes
• Fabric: Wool or wool-blend; avoid shiny materials
• Style: Single-breasted, two-button suits are most versatile

Shirt Guidelines

• Best colors: White, light blue, soft pastel—pair well with any suit
• Pattern: Solid colors safest; subtle micro-checks acceptable in less conservative roles
• Fit: Collar should allow one finger of space; cuffs extend half inch beyond jacket sleeves
• Style: Full-sleeve button-down; always tuck in
• Condition: Freshly ironed, no wrinkles, no stains, no missing buttons

Tie Selection

• Colors: Navy, burgundy, grey, subtle patterns—coordinate with suit, not match exactly
• Width: Should match suit lapel width (typically 7-9 cm)
• Length: Tip should touch belt buckle
• Avoid: Cartoon patterns, very bright colors, novelty ties, bow ties (unless industry-appropriate)

Trousers

• Colors: Match suit or choose dark grey, navy, black, or khaki for business casual
• Fit: Sits at natural waist, comfortable at thighs, slight break at ankle
• Style: Flat-front or single pleat; avoid cargo pockets, extreme tapers

Formal Shoes

• Style: Oxford, Derby, or formal loafers in black or brown leather
• Condition: Polished, clean, no visible wear or scuffs
• Socks: Match trousers or shoes; dark, solid colors; high enough to cover ankles when sitting

Belt and Accessories

• Belt: Leather, matches shoe color, simple buckle—no large logos
• Watch: Simple analog or conservative smartwatch; avoid sports watches
• Minimal accessories: Wedding ring acceptable; avoid other flashy jewelry

Business Casual (IT Companies, Modern Offices, Mid-Level Roles)

Smart Separates

• Shirts: Full-sleeve collared shirt in solid or subtle patterns; polo shirts acceptable in very casual tech environments
• Trousers: Dress trousers, chinos, or khakis in navy, grey, beige, or black
• Blazer: Optional but recommended—instantly elevates the look
• Shoes: Leather shoes, loafers, or very clean leather sneakers in conservative startups
• Tie: Usually not required for business casual; add if uncertain about formality

When Jeans Are Acceptable

Jeans can work for startup and creative company interviews when:

• Company culture is clearly casual (verify through research)
• Jeans are dark, plain, well-fitted, and free of rips, distressing, or heavy fading
• Paired with collared shirt or structured top, blazer, and leather shoes—not sneakers
• Role is technical or creative, not client-facing or management

Grooming Checklist for Men

Hair

• Get a haircut 3–5 days before interview—not same day
• Clean, styled, combed away from face
• No visible dandruff or greasy appearance
• Conservative cuts safest for formal sectors; creative cuts acceptable in startups if well-maintained

Facial Hair

• Clean-shaven or well-groomed beard—both are acceptable in most modern workplaces
• If keeping beard: trim to even length, define cheek and neck lines, comb through, no stray hairs
• Moustache: trimmed, clean, no food particles
• Avoid patchy or “just growing out” beards; if it looks unkempt, shave it

Nails and Hands

• Trim nails short and clean
• No visible dirt under nails
• Moisturize if hands are very dry or cracked

Fragrance

• Use deodorant—this is non-negotiable
• Minimize or skip cologne/aftershave; many people are sensitive to strong scents
• If you use fragrance: 1–2 light sprays maximum, mild scent

Personal Hygiene

• Shower on interview day
• Brush teeth; use mouthwash if eating before interview
• Ensure no body odor or bad breath

Interview Dress for Women: Formal & Semi-Formal Guide

Business Professional (Corporate, Banking, Law, Government, Senior Roles)

Suit Options

• Pantsuit: Blazer with matching trousers—most versatile and widely accepted globally
• Skirt suit: Blazer with knee-length or slightly below-knee skirt
• Colors: Navy, charcoal, grey, black, or dark earth tones
• Fit: Tailored but not tight; jacket buttons comfortably; skirt/trousers sit at natural waist

Blouses and Tops

• Style: Button-down blouse, shell top, or structured knit top under blazer
• Colors: White, cream, pastels, soft jewel tones—coordinate with suit
• Neckline: Modest—avoid low-cut, plunging, or very tight tops
• Sleeves: Full or three-quarter sleeves safest; sleeveless acceptable if worn with blazer
• Fabric: Non-transparent; ensure proper undergarments are not visible

Dresses

• Style: Sheath or A-line dress with blazer or cardigan
• Length: Knee-length or slightly below; nothing above mid-thigh
• Fit: Professional, not body-con or overly tight
• Colors and patterns: Solid or subtle prints; avoid loud florals or very bright patterns

Formal Shoes

• Style: Closed-toe pumps, flats, or low-heeled shoes
• Heel height: 1–3 inches ideal; avoid very high stilettos in conservative sectors
• Colors: Black, brown, navy, or nude—coordinate with outfit
• Condition: Clean, polished, no scuffs or worn heels
• Comfort: Must be able to walk confidently; break in new shoes before interview day

Hosiery and Tights

• Neutral or skin-tone stockings/tights recommended in very conservative sectors
• Ensure no runs or visible damage
• Not required in most modern workplaces, but check industry norms

Indian Formal Wear (Saree, Salwar-Kameez, Kurti)

Indian ethnic wear is professional and widely accepted for interviews in India when styled appropriately.

Saree

• Fabric: Cotton, silk-blend, light georgette, or chiffon—structured and not too transparent
• Colors: Pastels, neutrals, or soft jewel tones; avoid very bright, neon, or heavily printed sarees
• Embellishments: Minimal—no heavy embroidery, sequins, or bridal-style work
• Draping: Neat, secure, not too tight or revealing; practice beforehand if not experienced
• Blouse: Modest neckline, sleeves at least to upper arm, well-fitted
• Petticoat and lining: Ensure proper undergarments; saree should not be see-through

Salwar-Kameez and Kurti Sets

• Style: Simple, well-tailored salwar-kameez or kurti with churidar/trousers
• Length: Kurti should be knee-length or slightly above; avoid very short kurtis
• Bottom wear: Formal trousers, churidar, or salwar—avoid casual leggings
• Colors: Pastels, whites, soft colors, or subtle prints—no loud patterns or cartoon graphics
• Fabric: Good quality cotton, silk-blend, or formal fabric; not faded or worn
• Dupatta: Neatly draped or pinned; not too flashy

Pistaa Women’s Cotton Solid Salwar Suit Set

Comfortable, breathable cotton suit ideal for office-appropriate ethnic wear

View on Amazon

Footwear with Indian Wear

• Closed-toe formal sandals, loafers, or ballet flats
• Avoid very casual chappals, flip-flops, or overly embellished footwear
• Colors coordinate with outfit; neutral tones safest

Jewelry and Accessories

• Keep minimal: small earrings, thin chain, simple ring, watch
• Avoid heavy necklaces, noisy bangles, or oversized jewelry that distracts

Business Casual (IT Companies, Modern Offices, Mid-Level Roles)

Western Business Casual

• Trousers and tops: Dress trousers or chinos with blouse, structured knit top, or collared shirt
• Blazer: Adds polish; recommended even in casual environments
• Dresses: Simple, knee-length dresses with cardigan or blazer
• Shoes: Flats, loafers, or low heels in leather or good-quality materials

Indian Business Casual

• Simple kurti with formal trousers or well-fitted churidar
• Avoid casual kurtis with leggings; keep styling professional
• Coordinate colors; avoid very bright or festive looks

When Smart Casual Works (Startups, Creative Roles)

• Well-fitted dark jeans with structured blouse and blazer
• Simple dress with clean lines and cardigan
• Clean, minimal footwear—avoid sports shoes unless company culture is extremely casual

Grooming Checklist for Women

Hair

• Clean, styled, and away from face—can be open or tied
• Avoid very messy buns or styles that require constant adjustment
• Use minimal product; no overpowering hairspray smell
• Natural hair colors safest for conservative sectors; creative colors acceptable in startups if well-maintained

Makeup

• Goal: polished and natural, not dramatic or party-ready
• Light foundation or BB cream, neutral eye makeup, soft lipstick or tinted balm
• Avoid: glitter, very bright lip colors, heavy contouring, dramatic false lashes
• Well-groomed eyebrows
• If you typically do not wear makeup, you do not need to start for interviews—just ensure skin is clean and moisturized

Nails

• Trimmed and clean—short to medium length
• If wearing polish: neutral, nude, soft pink, or light colors; no chips
• Avoid: very long nails, bright/neon colors, heavy nail art in conservative roles

Fragrance

• Use deodorant
• Minimize or skip perfume; strong scents can trigger allergies and headaches
• If you wear fragrance: 1–2 light sprays, mild floral or fresh scents

Accessories

• Keep minimal: simple earrings, thin necklace or chain, one ring, watch
• Avoid: large statement jewelry, noisy bangles, multiple rings, flashy pieces
• Handbag: structured tote or handbag in neutral colors; no large backpacks with cartoon characters for formal roles

Shoes, Belts, Bags & Watches: Complete Rules

Shoes for All Genders

Belts

• Material: Leather or good-quality synthetic
• Color: Should match shoes—brown belt with brown shoes, black with black
• Width: Standard dress belt width (3-4 cm); not too wide or narrow
• Buckle: Simple, no large logos, cartoon characters, or flashy designs
• Fit: Should fit comfortably at natural waist without being too tight

Bags and Briefcases

• Professional options: Laptop bag, structured tote, portfolio, or small briefcase in leather or quality fabric
• Colors: Black, brown, navy, or other neutrals
• Condition: Clean, no stains, functional zippers and straps
• Size: Large enough for resume copies, notepad, and essentials; not oversized
• Avoid: Gym backpacks, very casual bags with loud prints/logos, shopping bags, worn-out bags

Watches

• Style: Simple analog watch or conservative smartwatch
• Strap: Leather, metal, or neutral fabric; avoid bright colors and sports bands
• Face: Classic or minimal design; avoid oversized or flashy watches
• Functionality: Ensure it is set to correct time
• Avoid: Brightly colored fitness trackers, toy watches, broken watches

Interview Dress by Job Type: Industry-Specific Guide

IT Companies and Tech Roles

Work culture: Often business casual or casual; some companies allow jeans and T-shirts daily.

Interview dress recommendation: Business casual to light business professional.

• Men: Collared shirt (full-sleeve), dress trousers or chinos, leather shoes; blazer optional but recommended; tie optional
• Women: Blouse with trousers, structured dress with cardigan, or simple kurti with formal trousers; closed-toe shoes
• Jeans: Acceptable in many tech startups if dark, plain, and paired with collared shirt/blouse and blazer
• Avoid: T-shirts with slogans, hoodies, sports shoes, overly casual looks even if the office is casual

Corporate Offices (Finance, Consulting, Large MNCs, Law)

Work culture: Business professional is standard.

Interview dress recommendation: Full business professional—no exceptions.

• Men: Well-fitted suit (navy or charcoal), light-colored shirt, conservative tie, leather dress shoes, belt matches shoes
• Women: Pantsuit or skirt suit, formal blouse, closed-toe heels or flats; or formal saree/salwar-kameez in conservative colors (India)
• Grooming: Extra attention to details—polished shoes, neat hair, minimal fragrance
• Avoid: Any form of casual wear, jeans, T-shirts, sneakers, loud colors, flashy accessories

Startups and Creative Companies

Work culture: Ranges from business casual to very casual; some startups have no dress code.

Interview dress recommendation: Smart casual to business casual; read company culture carefully.

• Men: Chinos or dark jeans, collared shirt or polo, blazer or casual jacket, clean shoes (leather or very clean sneakers)
• Women: Smart jeans or trousers with structured top, casual dress with blazer, simple kurti with fitted pants, flats or low heels
• Goal: Look polished, put-together, and authentic; avoid appearing like you “just rolled out of bed” even if office is casual
• Avoid: Overly formal three-piece suits unless it is a mature, well-funded startup with corporate clients

Government, PSU, and Bank Jobs (India and Similar Conservative Sectors)

Work culture: Formal and conservative; traditional dress codes are strongly preferred.

Interview dress recommendation: Business professional or traditional formal (India).

• Men: Full suit or formal shirt with dark trousers, tie (recommended for officer/management roles), leather dress shoes, belt
• Women (India): Simple saree in pastel or muted colors, or formal salwar-kameez/kurti with dupatta; minimal jewelry; closed-toe formal sandals or shoes
• Women (International): Pantsuit or skirt suit in conservative colors; closed-toe heels or flats
• Grooming: Conservative; clean-shaven or very neat beard; minimal makeup; no bold fashion statements
• Avoid: Jeans, bright colors, loud prints, heavy embroidery, sleeveless or low-cut tops, very high heels, flashy accessories

Stand Out in Every Zoom Interview

Virtual interviews demand camera-ready outfits and lighting. Learn how to optimize your look for any screen.

Interview Dress for Freshers: Low-Budget Professional Wardrobe

Building a Capsule Interview Wardrobe on a Budget

You do not need expensive brands to look professional. Focus on fit, cleanliness, and coordination.

For Men (₹3,000–5,000 or $50–80 budget)

1. 2 formal shirts (white and light blue)—₹800–1,200 each
2. 1 pair dark formal trousers (navy or charcoal)—₹1,000–1,500
3. 1 pair black formal shoes—₹1,000–1,500
4. 1 leather belt (black)—₹300–500
5. Optional: 1 blazer (navy or grey)—₹2,000–3,000 (borrow or buy later if needed)

For Women (₹3,000–5,000 or $50–80 budget)

1. 2 formal tops/blouses (white and pastel)—₹600–1,000 each
2. 1 pair formal trousers (black or navy)—₹800–1,200
3. 1 formal kurti with trousers (India)—₹1,000–1,500
4. 1 pair closed-toe shoes or formal sandals—₹800–1,200
5. Optional: 1 blazer or cardigan—₹1,500–2,500

Budget Shopping Tips

• Shop end-of-season sales at brands like Peter England, Van Heusen, Allen Solly (India) or Uniqlo, H&M, Zara (international)
• Check online marketplaces: Amazon, Myntra, AJIO (India) or ASOS, Target (international) for discounts
• Thrift stores and second-hand shops often have excellent formal wear at 50–70% off
• Borrow blazers or suits from family/friends for first few interviews if budget is very tight
• Invest in one good pair of shoes—they make the biggest visual impact

Alterations Make the Difference

Freshers’ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Wearing campus casuals (T-shirts, jeans, sneakers) to formal sector interviews
• Borrowing oversized clothes that do not fit well
• Skipping grooming because “it is just an interview”
• Wearing brand-new, uncomfortable shoes on interview day without breaking them in
• Overdoing accessories or makeup to compensate for simple clothes

What NOT to Wear to an Interview: Complete Avoid List

Clothing Items to Avoid

• Jeans (unless startup/creative and explicitly appropriate)
• T-shirts, especially with slogans, logos, or graphics
• Shorts, capris, or very short skirts/dresses
• Leggings as pants (unless under long kurti and still avoid for formal sectors)
• Ripped, distressed, or faded clothing
• Athletic wear: gym clothes, yoga pants, sports jerseys
• Sleeveless without jacket/cardigan in conservative sectors
• See-through or sheer fabrics without proper layering
• Very tight or revealing clothes: low-cut tops, bodycon dresses, crop tops
• Flip-flops, sandals (casual), crocs, or very worn-out shoes
• Wrinkled or stained clothing
• Clothes with visible logos, brand names, or slogans

Grooming and Accessory Mistakes

• Strong perfume or cologne that fills the room
• Overly styled or gelled hair that looks stiff or unnatural
• Unkempt beard or facial hair
• Chipped nail polish or very long/decorative nails
• Heavy makeup, glitter, or dramatic looks
• Excessive jewelry: multiple rings, noisy bangles, large necklaces
• Visible tattoos (cover if possible in conservative sectors; increasingly acceptable in modern workplaces)
• Visible piercings beyond ears (remove or cover in conservative roles)
• Sunglasses indoors or hats/caps
• Chewing gum or visible candy during interview

Color and Pattern Mistakes

• Very bright neon colors (lime green, hot pink, electric blue)
• All-black outfits in creative roles (can look too somber; break with lighter top/accessories)
• Loud, busy patterns: large florals, cartoon prints, animal prints
• Mixing too many patterns (striped shirt + checked blazer + printed tie)

Fit and Comfort Issues

• Clothes too tight—pulling at buttons, sitting uncomfortably
• Clothes too loose—hanging off shoulders, bunching at waist
• Pants too long—dragging on floor and getting dirty
• Skirts too short—riding up when sitting
• Shoes too small or new—causing blisters and distraction

Virtual / Online Interview Dressing Guide

Why Dress Fully Professional for Video Interviews

Many candidates assume they only need to dress the top half for video calls. This is risky and unprofessional:

• You may need to stand up unexpectedly (doorbell, adjusting camera, technical issues)
• Getting dressed fully puts you in a professional mindset and boosts confidence
• Wearing pyjama bottoms can make you feel less professional and affect your performance
• Interviewers can sometimes see reflections in windows/mirrors behind you

Camera-Friendly Colors and Patterns

Not all colors and patterns translate well on camera:

Best colors for video:

• Navy, charcoal, grey, soft blue, muted greens, earth tones
• Solid colors rather than busy patterns
• Jewel tones (emerald, sapphire, burgundy) work well against most backgrounds

Avoid on camera:

• Very bright white (causes glare and overexposure)
• Very dark black (can look flat or merge with dark backgrounds)
• Neon and very bright colors (lime green, hot pink, electric blue)—can “bleed” or distort on screen
• Busy patterns: thin stripes, checks, houndstooth—create moiré effect (visual distortion)
• Shiny or reflective fabrics—cause glare and distraction

Matching Your Background

• Light background (white wall, light curtains) → Wear richer, darker colors like navy, burgundy, forest green, charcoal
• Dark background (wood paneling, dark wall) → Wear lighter tones like soft blue, grey, cream, pastels
• Neutral background (beige, grey) → Most colors work; choose medium tones for best contrast

Upper Body Presentation

Since video interviews emphasize your face and upper body:

• Choose collared or structured necklines—they frame face well on camera
• Ensure collar, shoulders, and sleeves sit properly; visible on screen
• Avoid busy patterns near face—keep area around face clean and uncluttered
• Minimal jewelry—large necklaces or noisy bangles can distract or cause glare
• Test your outfit on camera before interview—check for glare, distortion, or awkward framing

Grooming for Video Interviews

• Hair should be neat and away from face; overhead lighting can create shadows
• Makeup: slightly more definition than usual helps on camera (for those who wear it)—camera washes out color
• Glasses: anti-glare lenses ideal; tilt frames slightly down to minimize screen reflection
• Background visible behind you: clean, neutral, professional—no messy rooms or distracting objects

Technical Setup for Professional Appearance

• Camera at eye level—avoid looking down or up at screen
• Good lighting: face well-lit, no harsh shadows; natural light from window in front or ring light works best
• Neutral, clean background; virtual backgrounds acceptable if stable and professional (avoid distracting images)
• Test technology 30 minutes before: audio, video, internet connection, platform login

Seasonal Tips: Summer and Winter Interview Dressing

Summer Interview Dress (Hot and Humid Climates)

Challenges: Heat, sweating, humidity, outdoor walking to office.

Fabric choices:

• Lightweight cotton, linen blends, breathable synthetics
• Avoid heavy wool, thick polyester, or non-breathable fabrics

Practical tips:

• Carry a blazer rather than wearing it in heat—put on just before entering building
• Choose lighter colors (light blue, beige, soft grey) over very dark colors if appropriate for role
• Use antiperspirant (not just deodorant) to control sweating
• Carry a small towel or tissues to dab sweat before entering interview room
• Allow extra travel time to cool down and compose yourself before interview
• Keep a spare shirt in car/bag if traveling long distance in heat

For women:

• Sleeveless blouse under blazer works well—remove blazer outdoors, wear indoors
• Light cotton sarees or salwar-kameez are comfortable in Indian summers
• Avoid heavy makeup that melts—use setting spray and waterproof products if needed

Winter Interview Dress (Cold Climates)

Challenges: Layering without looking bulky, arriving cold and disheveled.

Layering strategy:

• Base layer: formal shirt/blouse
• Middle layer: vest or thin sweater (optional)
• Outer layer: professional overcoat or blazer
• Remove outer coat before entering interview room; carry or hang neatly

Practical tips:

• Choose winter coat that is professional (wool, trench, structured)—not puffer jacket or very casual parka
• Arrive slightly early to warm up, remove layers, and compose yourself
• Check hair and clothes after removing hat, scarf, gloves
• Carry umbrella if rain/snow expected; leave in reception area
• Boots are fine for commuting but bring formal shoes to change into, or wear formal shoes with weather protection spray

Monsoon / Rainy Season (India-Specific)

• Carry formal shoes in bag; wear rainproof footwear for commute, change before interview
• Avoid light colors and delicate fabrics (silk sarees, light cotton) that show water stains
• Keep trousers hemmed to correct length—not dragging through puddles
• Carry small towel to dry off if you get wet
• Check hair and clothes in restroom before interview—rain can ruin styling
• Keep interview outfit in plastic bag during commute to protect from moisture

Just Starting Out? Freshers — Dress to Impress From Day One

Freshers face unique wardrobe challenges. Get a complete outfit guide tailored to budget and first-impression success.

“What Should I Wear for THIS Interview?” Decision Guide

Step 1: Research the Company

Before choosing outfit, spend 15–20 minutes researching:

• Company website: Look at team photos, leadership pictures, office environment images
• LinkedIn company page: Check employee photos, company culture posts, event pictures
• Instagram / Facebook: Many companies share casual office photos showing real work attire
• Glassdoor reviews: Sometimes mention dress code in “Work Environment” section
• Recruiter communication: If recruiter mentioned dress code (“business professional”, “casual”), follow it exactly

Step 2: Identify Industry Norms

Use the industry-specific guidelines provided earlier in this guide to establish baseline expectations for your target sector.

Step 3: Adjust for Role Seniority

• Entry-level / freshers: Business casual acceptable in most non-conservative sectors; simple formal Indian wear okay (India)
• Mid-level / experienced: Lean toward business professional; show you understand workplace norms
• Senior / leadership roles: Always business professional regardless of company’s daily dress code—you represent the organization externally

Step 4: Apply the “One Level Above” Rule

If employees typically wear:

1. Casual (jeans and T-shirts) → You wear: Smart casual (dark jeans/chinos + collared shirt/blouse + clean shoes)
2. Business casual (chinos and polos) → You wear: Business professional (suit or equivalent)
3. Business professional (suits) → You wear: Business professional with extra attention to fit and grooming

Step 5: When in Doubt, Choose Formal

Step 6: Prepare the Night Before

• Lay out complete outfit including shoes, belt, accessories
• Check for stains, missing buttons, wrinkles—iron if needed
• Polish shoes
• Charge phone, print extra resume copies, prepare bag
• Try on outfit one final time to ensure fit and comfort

Conclusion: Confidence Starts with Preparation

The right interview outfit does more than meet dress code expectations—it builds your confidence, shows respect for the opportunity, and allows interviewers to focus on your skills and qualifications rather than your appearance.

Your outfit is just one element of interview success, but it is the first impression you make and the foundation of your professional presence. Invest time in preparation, dress with intention, and walk into your interview with confidence.