WHAT TO WEAR TO AN INTERVIEW—TIMES ARE CHANGING!
Not long ago, a candidate asked a simple question that opened a whole conversation: “Can I wear jeans to my interview?”
A totally valid question—and one that doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer anymore.
We’ve entered a new era of interviewing, where what you wear depends on a lot more than just the job title. Industry, city, age group, even whether you're on Zoom or walking into a showroom all play a role in how you should show up. So let’s break it down:
Can I wear jeans?
In New York? Maybe.
In L.A.? 100%
On Zoom? Depends what's up top. (We’ve all seen the sweatpants + blazer combo.)
If you're interviewing with a creative brand or startup—especially in places like LA where laid-back is a lifestyle—denim is totally acceptable. But if you're walking into a corporate HQ or interviewing for a senior leadership role, jeans (even your dressiest ones) may still be too casual. Read the room... or at least the job description.
Do I wear a suit?
Suits aren’t dead, but they’ve evolved. Think less Wall Street, more well-fitted, neutral-toned, clean-lined. If you're applying to a luxury brand or a traditional fashion house, a very sophisticated, on trend suit could work—just make it feel modern and effortless, not stuffy.
Does the city matter?
Oh, absolutely.
NYC: Fast-paced, fashion-forward, and always looking. Tailored, sharp, intentional.
LA: Effortless cool. Still professional—but with a relaxed, lifestyle-forward twist. NO holes in your denim.
Miami, Austin, SF, Chicago: Each has its own flavor, but knowing the brand’s HQ vibe (and stalking their team on LinkedIn) can help you decode what feels right.
What about video interviews?
Just because you’re at your kitchen table doesn’t mean you shouldn’t show up polished. The top half of your look still tells a story—and that story should say: “I took this seriously and show your personal style.”
Avoid noisy prints, wrinkled shirts, and anything too loungey. You don’t need a blazer and tie, but a clean, confident outfit helps set the tone—especially on screen, where every detail is amplified. Brushing your teeth may not be necessary but make sure your hair isn’t in your face, people want to see your eyes and facial expressions when on a video interview.
So, how should you decide what to wear?
Here’s the cheat sheet we give our candidates at PRTNR:
Research the brand — what do they stand for, and what does their team actually wear?
Consider the role — entry-level marketing vs. VP of operations? Different expectations.
Think about the medium — Zoom vs. in-person can shift your styling choices.
When in doubt, elevate — it's better to be a little more polished than too relaxed.
At the end of the day, the goal is to feel like you—just the most put-together version. Confidence shows up first, and what you wear should support that, not distract from it.
Need help deciding what to wear for your next interview? We’ve got you.
At PRTNR, we know style and substance.
