As if you didn’t have enough to worry about while deciding between striped ties or plain, pant suits or skirts, hair up or hair down, etc., one more critical element of proper interview attire is thrown into the mix. Did you know that the actual color of your suit can be just as revealing of a personality indicator as your demeanor during the interview? Your choice in color for your interview apparel says a lot about you as a person, your professionalism, your personality, etc. Of course, wearing one color or another may not be the definitive indicator of your personality; the color explanations below might be the furthest thing from your true personality. Regardless, humans tend to have automatic assumptions or emotions associated with certain colors, and might have preconceived notions about you based on your outfit choice without even being aware of the distinctions they are making. Before reaching for your favorite red blazer or lucky pink socks, read the Info Barrel article below on the best colors to wear to an interview!
Do you put a lot of thought into what color clothing you wear to an interview? You should!
As someone who formerly facilitated hirings, I was subject to a strange phenomenon: sometimes a very qualified, capable candidate rubbed me the wrong way.
What you wear affects how you’re perceived in an interview, and even a sharp outfit can be undone by the mysterious psychological effects of color. Choose the right interview colors before you show up!
Red
Red is an intense interview color, and that’s what it says about the wearer. Red says you want to be noticed. It’s the color of passion, energy, and strength, but also danger and war.
In terms of an employee, red interview clothing might tell me that a candidate is very energetic and confident, that they possess leadership qualities and courage. It also tells me this candidate might be a little hot-headed or quick to anger.
Red is a wild card. Personally, I’d avoid large quantities of red in an interview, since it’s such a powerful impression.
Blue
Blue is an interview color that denotes intelligence, wisdom and depth, sincerity and perception. Blue also has a calming influence, with measurable effects on the human mind and metabolism.
A candidate wearing blue will give the effect of capability and calm. They might not be high energy, but they are level-headed and capable. It also might put me more at ease in the interview setting.
Green
Green has a youthful energy and lightness, and it’s common to associate green with growth and life. Green conveys a sense of safety, peace and healing. The flip side is that green can say inexperienced.
A candidate wearing green interview clothing might seem youthful and safe. In most work settings a calming, peaceful impression would be a good choice. To avoid the impression of lack of experience, try a slightly darker green.
Yellow
Yellow is obviously a very cheerful interview color, giving a sense of lightness, intelligence and happiness. Like red, yellow says you don’t mind attention, giving it some leadership attributes.
A nice, yellow shirt tells me a candidate is light-hearted, open and honest. It says leadership potential, with a warm, cheerful style. That said, a lot of yellow would probably be overwhelming. Yellow works best as a pop of color: tie, bag, etc.
White
Yes I know, white is a shade, but I’m trying to cover the most common choices in formal attire.
White is associated with cleanliness and perfection, as well as innocence and purity. Anything white has the impression of being new.
A white shirt is always one of the best interview colors, just make sure it’s really white! That impression of perfection and safety will be nullified by an off-white or dirty looking article.
White also has the bonus of pairing nicely with any other interview color you have chosen.
Black
Black is common in business attire. It says strength, elegance and formality. It’s also associated with death, mystery and the unknown.
In an interview setting, black is a good choice, just don’t wear too much of it. Like white, black pairs nicely with most other interview colors. Black says you respect the formality of the interview and the authority of the hiring company.
Avoid matching black with brown, charcoal, or dark grey. You don’t want to make your outfit look mismatched, and the human eye picks up on even subtle shade differences.
http://www.infobarrel.com/The_Best_Colors_to_Wear_for_an_Interview
FAQs
This is the case for job interviews, as many of those who support the theory of color psychology say that wearing hues of blue, gray or black will help candidates do better, not just because they increase their own professional self-image, but also because others will see them as more capable and confident.
What color shows confidence in an interview? ›
This is the case for job interviews, as many of those who support the theory of color psychology say that wearing hues of blue, gray or black will help candidates do better, not just because they increase their own professional self-image, but also because others will see them as more capable and confident.
What is the best color code for an interview? ›
Blue Color Shirts are often considered the best color shirt to wear for interviews, as they convey professionalism, reliability, and confidence. It's a top choice for making a positive impression.
What is the best outfit for an interview? ›
Shirts: A light or solid coloured long-sleeved shirt is always a good idea for interview dressing. You can either go for a plain shirt or a one with micro checks. Suits and blazers: You can also opt for a formal suit or simply throw on a blazer over a light or solid coloured shirt.
What is the best color to wear for a camera interview? ›
Choose Colors That Look Great on the Camera
- Deeply saturated colors, such as red, hot pink, and orange, are the camera's major rivals. ...
- The camera loves pastels, such as pale blue and light green, as these are always flattering on the screen. ...
- Don't wear colors that match your skin tone.
As for what to avoid, research suggests you should not wear orange, brown, multi-colors, or red to a job interview.
What color is most likely to get you hired? ›
So, a hot top: Blue is the choice most likely to get you hired! Why? Blue exudes calm confidence, honesty and authority, and people associate the colour with someone who's a team player. Purple, a close runner up, is the colour of authenticity, status and non-conformity.
What color should be avoided on a job interview? ›
According to CareerBuilder's recently survey, blue and black are the best colors to wear to a job interview, and orange is the worst.
What color is best for an interview female? ›
The color you wear sends a message to the interviewer about your character, attitude, and personality. Color conveys a level of professionalism. While blue and black are consistently the best colors to wear, orange is the worst – followed by brown.
What are conservative colors for interview? ›
Recommended Attire
Needs to be conservative in color and style (navy blue and grey are best). Shirt: White or solid pastel with long sleeves. Necktie: Conservative pattern with a color that is complementary to your suit. Shoes: Black or brown leather, polished and in good repair.
White: The quintessential choice for interviews, a white shirt symbolizes purity, simplicity, and professionalism. It's a blank canvas that allows your tie to stand out, making it versatile for any suit color.
Which shoe is best for an interview? ›
For formal events or interviews, black shoes are typically the best choice for charcoal, black, or navy suits. Brown shoes, on the other hand, pair well with lighter-colored suits such as beige, tan, or light gray. The key is to create a harmonious and balanced look that complements your attire.
How to dress for an interview as a lady? ›
A muted color palette with one statement piece, like a bold-colored blouse or an interesting necklace, can do the trick. If you're leaning towards more traditional choices, a well-fitted knee-length skirt paired with a crisp shirt, or a tailored pantsuit can never go wrong.
What color stands out in an interview? ›
Blue is the ultimate safe choice
Blue was the most recommended color by hiring professionals surveyed by CareerBuilder, with 23 percent responding they actually preferred the hue. Shades of blue send the message that you're credible and trustworthy according to experts.
What color shows confidence? ›
Orange. This bright color conveys confidence, creativity, and courage. And because of its fun nature, it works well with noncorporate brands. Orange also produces a warm feeling since it's associated with the sun.
What is the best color light for interviews? ›
In these cases, it is best to use a daylight-balanced light source (3200 Kelvin). Then, set your camera's white balance to 5600 Kelvin to read your subject's color properly.
What is the best color to wear for a job interview? ›
Business Insider asked two color experts to share which shades are best to wear to a job interview. Wearing blue or taupe can give off the impression that you're trustworthy and dependable. The experts said wearing red can make you feel confident if you need some extra encouragement.
What color represents confidence? ›
Maroon. Maroon can represent things such as control, confidence, and success. It can also symbolize sophistication, elegance, romance, maturity, and timelessness.
How do you show confidence in an interview? ›
Use these tips to express confidence during an interview in a way that's natural to you:
- Dress appropriately. ...
- Stay alert. ...
- Practice breathing techniques. ...
- Prepare and rehearse your answers. ...
- Respond thoughtfully. ...
- Consider eye contact. ...
- Evaluate your body movements. ...
- Think positively.
The Right Tie
It's best to wear a traditional tie, and solid, dark colors work well. A navy blue tie pairs well with a suit and vest. Burgundy is another conservative color to wear when you approach an interview. If you can't bear the thought of something so plain, you could give a knit tie a try.
