Color experts share the 7 best shades to wear for a job interview (2024)

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Cheyenne Lentz

2024-02-23T14:19:18Z

Color experts share the 7 best shades to wear for a job interview (1)

  • 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.

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Color experts share the 7 best shades to wear for a job interview (4)

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Business Insider asked two color experts to share which colors are best to wear to a job interview.

Here's what they said.

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Pink can put your interviewer at ease.

Color experts share the 7 best shades to wear for a job interview (5)

Pinks emanate an easygoing vibe and may bring comfort to the wearer and the interviewer, according to Amy Wax, color expert and creator of the Color911 app.

"Rather than a bright or playful pink, I recommend a softer pink that shows a person is easy to get along with," she told BI.

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Blue can convey reliability and trustworthiness.

Color experts share the 7 best shades to wear for a job interview (6)

According to Wax, blue elicits feelings of reliability.

"Shades of blue are colors that are relaxing and conjure up the impression of a person who can be trusted in the workspace," the expert told BI.

Consider incorporating shades like lighter gray-blues or classic navy.

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Shades of purple are associated with interpersonal connection.

Color experts share the 7 best shades to wear for a job interview (7)

If you want to express an openness to spirituality or deep relationships, purple may be the color to bring out, according to Michelle Lewis, a color-psychology expert and the founder of The Color Cure.

Wearing shades in the purple family could be useful if you're applying to a job at a therapy office, yoga studio, or religious environment.

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Green may give off the impression of dependability.

Color experts share the 7 best shades to wear for a job interview (8)

Dark green can be very appealing to wear to a job interview, according to Wax.

"This classic color denotes stability and a person who works well with others," she told BI.

Lewis also said if you want to show that you're self-assured and a dependable asset to the company, green is a great color as it's often linked with confidence.

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Taupe can express security.

Color experts share the 7 best shades to wear for a job interview (9)

Wax said taupe expresses warmth and stability without being overwhelming.

"Though an understated choice, this might be the perfect color if the job requires someone who is not going to rock the boat," she told BI.

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Wearing red tends to make you feel confident.

Color experts share the 7 best shades to wear for a job interview (10)

Red implies confidence, power, strength, and passion, according to Wax.

Lewis said wearing red can also help the interviewer take you seriously as a long-term employee looking for career growth.

"Just be careful not to act too aggressively, as it may be overpowering with the combination of wearing the color," the color-psychology expert told BI.

Pairing red with a more neutral fashion choice may be the way to go.

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Colors in the yellow family are associated with positivity.

Color experts share the 7 best shades to wear for a job interview (11)

Lewis told BI that yellow is a great choice if you want to bring joy and optimism into a workplace.

For instance, if the company is looking for a positive office manager or someone with a spark of creativity, yellow can make a good impression.

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Fashion Tips

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Color experts share the 7 best shades to wear for a job interview (2024)

FAQs

Color experts share the 7 best shades to wear for a job 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 to wear for a job 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 color is most likely to get you hired? ›

The results: Blue (81%), Purple (72%), Black (69%), Green (56%), Red (48%), Yellow (32%), White (30%), Orange (28%), Grey (13%), Brown (3%). So, a hot top: Blue is the choice most likely to get you hired!

What colors mean for job interview? ›

In general, it's best to wear one of four “neutral” colors to an interview to help interviewers develop a positive perception of you.
  • Blue: shows that you're confident, trustworthy, and a team player.
  • Black: implies leadership, sophistication, and exclusivity.
  • Gray: you're independent, logical, and analytical.

What color suit is standard for a job interview? ›

Dark-coloured suits such as black, grey, navy, brown, charcoal, or suits with discreet patterns like thin pinstripes and a white shirt are a safe choice for these kinds of interviews.

What color shows confidence in an 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 should be avoided on a job interview? ›

Just say no to wearing orange

Orange topped CareerBuilder's list for the absolute worst color to wear to a job interview, with 25 percent of respondents saying they associated the color with someone who's unprofessional.

What color makes you look professional? ›

Black is often a go-to darker color for professional attire. It's simple yet effective. In color psychology, we often associate black with elegance, sophistication, and power in color psychology. Black is often a go-to darker color for professional attire.

What color makes people hire you? ›

As a career coach, blue is the color I most often recommend to job seekers. One of the reasons companies like Meta, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Salesforce use blue in their logos is because it exudes trust, and besides, people simply love the color.

What is the most professional looking color? ›

Blue, black, grey, brown and white are the best, while orange is universally considered the worst colour for an interview. Also avoid yellow, green and purple. Why? Blue : Blue (navy) is considered the perfect pick as it reflects trust, confidence, calmness and stability.

How to answer tell me about yourself? ›

  1. Use Storytelling and Practice Your Answer. ...
  2. Highlight Relevant Strengths and Experience. ...
  3. Share a Professional Story and Relevant Anecdotes. ...
  4. Exercise Research-Based Empathy in Your Response. ...
  5. Provide a Brief Highlight-Summary of Your Experience. ...
  6. Differentiate Yourself from Other Applicants.
Oct 30, 2023

What to wear for an interview as a female? ›

What should women wear to an interview?
  • A simple, professional top. Wear a top that's comfortable, professional and conservative. ...
  • Dress pants or a skirt. ...
  • Comfortable shoes with closed toes. ...
  • Simple accessories. ...
  • A collared shirt with long sleeves. ...
  • Chinos or dress pants. ...
  • Dark shoes with matching socks. ...
  • Simple accents.
Feb 13, 2024

What to wear to an interview in psychology? ›

Avoid jeans, leggings without a skirt or dress on top of them, and low-cut tops. Another recommendation is to keep piercings and jewelry discreet as too much tinkling and twinkling could become a distraction to yourself and the interviewer.

What is the best color to wear to a job interview? ›

The optimal color choice for interviews is undoubtedly blue. It radiates assurance and reliability, conveying your collaborative spirit. Numerous recruiters endorse blue as the prime interview attire. Its vivid tones draw notice, while deeper shades suit traditional corporate roles impeccably.

What are 5 rules for dressing for an interview? ›

Dressing for an important interview
  • Dress for the position. ...
  • Dress slightly more formally than required. ...
  • Pay attention to fit and comfort. ...
  • Lean toward conservative colors. ...
  • Accessorize with care. ...
  • Maintain a polished appearance. ...
  • Consider scent sensitivities.

What shoes should a woman wear to an interview? ›

A closed-toe shoe with a low or mid-height heel of around 2-3 inches is a superb choice. Smart, elegant and offering a good amount of coverage, court shoes tick all the boxes for a good interview heel. Alternatively, opt for some glam heeled boots to keep your toes toasty during the winter.

Is it better to wear your hair up or down for an interview? ›

Instead of wearing your hair down, wear a classy bun or ponytail, or twist your hair into a smooth, long braid to keep your hair away from your face. Classy buns, ponytails or a long braid can give a professional look to your style while keeping you comfortable.

Is it better to wear white or black to an interview? ›

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.

What Nail color is best for interviews? ›

Professional nail colors for interviews include neutral pinks and beiges. ... Stick to sheer colors, taupe, beige or clear nail polish and ensure your nails are well-manicured.

What is the best color lipstick for a job interview? ›

Use a neutral lipstick shade.

The lipstick shades that match your natural lip color are the best for interviews. Rose, brown, coral, or neutral tones are good options to finish your job interview makeup. Don't use a lip color that's too dark or bright. It may appear too edgy and distracting.

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