Different companies and industries have different norms regarding appropriate attire. Do your research on the companies before each meeting to understand their cultures and what you are expected to wear. In most industries, standard protocol would be professional dress, which entails a conservative, well-tailored suit regardless of gender. Although many organizations do not require employees to wear business suits for daily work, recruiters expect candidates to look their most professional during the job interview.

It is difficult to dictate a "perfect" attire that will be applicable in all situations. If you are unsure of the dress code for a company you are interviewing at, call HR ahead of time to figure out what is appropriate. Here are some standardized tips to help you decipher the dress code at your workplace.
 

Business Attire for Women

Business Professional Attire for Women:

• Navy, black, or gray suit with dress pants or a skirt that ends at the knees 
• Blouse with conservative neckline
• Natural or minimum makeup
• Deodorant and minimum perfume, if any
• Closed-toed shoes with low to medium heels or professional flats
• Moderate jewelry
• No more than 1 ring on each hand
• Professional portfolio instead of a backpack
• Trimmed fingernails with conservative color, if any
• Neat hair-style with hair away from face
• One conservative earring in each ear, if any
• Cover tattoos

 

Business Casual Attire for Women:

• Business dress, skirt, or pants
• Conservative blouse or sweater
• Medium to low heels or professional flats
• Belt, scarf, and accessories should remain understated

 

Professional Hairstyles for Women:

• Make sure hair is clean
• Keep hair away face, so features are clearly visible
• Have natural hair colors in a professional setting
• Hair buns and ponytails are great for professional situations, but keep accessories understated

Business Attire for Men

Business Professional Attire for Men: 

• Navy, black, or gray two-piece suit 
• Light colored long-sleeved formal dress shirt or Oxford shirt
• Understated silk tie with small conservative patterns
• Dark socks that remain above the pants cuff when seated
• Belt and shoes of matching color
• Well-polished formal shoes
• Professional briefcase or portfolio instead of a backpack
• Deodorant and minimal cologne, if any
• Clean shaven or well-kept facial hair
• Professional watch
• Trimmed and clean fingernails
• Remove visible body piercings
• Cover tattoos

 

 Business Casual Attire for Men:

• Long or short-sleeved collared shirt
• Good quality sweaters or vests with no hoods
• Business or sports jacket as appropriate
• Stylish, solid colored slacks
• Ties not necessary
• Dark socks
• Matching belt and shoes

 

Professional Hairstyles for Men:

 

• Make sure hair is clean
• Keep hair out of face and eyes
• Use hair product so hair stays neat