What to Wear for Job Interviews & the Workplace: A Holistic Styling Guide

Are you applying for jobs, or do you already have a job but want to refine your workplace wardrobe? If so, I’m glad you’re here. Dressing with confidence and intention can make a huge difference in how you feel and how others perceive you in a professional setting.

Hi, I’m Erin Simmons, an Austin-based personal stylist and holistic styling coach. Today, I’m walking you through the do’s and don’ts of dressing for interviews and showing you how to style four workplace-appropriate outfits across different industries and climates.

Interview & Workplace Dressing: Do’s and Don’ts

Some of these tips may seem obvious, but a refresher never hurts!

• ✅ Do: Make sure your clothes are clean and wrinkle-free.
• ❌ Don’t: Wear clothes that are too big or too small—fit matters!
• ✅ Do: Choose clothes and shoes that let you walk, stand, and sit comfortably.
• ❌ Don’t: Overdo fragrance—shower, but go easy on the perfume or cologne.
• ✅ Do: Smile, stand up straight, and make eye contact—confidence is key!
• ❌ Don’t: Wear anything that reveals excessive cleavage, midriff, or undergarments.
• ✅ Do: Show your personality through accessories, colors, and textures!

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into the fun part—styling! I’ll be sharing four outfit ideas for two different work environments:

1. Corporate / Conservative (e.g., law firms, finance, traditional office settings)

2. Creative / Nonprofit (e.g., design agencies, arts organizations, casual workspaces)

Each category includes one cold-weather outfit and one warm-weather outfit, so you’ll be covered year-round.

Corporate & Conservative: Cold Weather Outfit

For a professional yet stylish winter look, layering is key:

• Base Layer: A ribbed silk black turtleneck and wool wide-leg trousers provide warmth and polish.
• Layering Piece: A vintage burgundy wool button-front dress, worn open to the waist and cinched with a thick black belt, adds structure and depth.
• Shoes: Pointed-toe black stiletto booties keep the look sleek and elegant.
• Jewelry: Minimal for a chic, sophisticated feel.

Why it works: This outfit is professional and conservative, but never boring—perfect for making a strong yet understated impression.

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Creative / Nonprofit: Cold Weather Outfit

For a more relaxed and expressive work setting, I styled an outfit that plays with classic silhouettes in unexpected ways:

• Top: A white leather button-front shirt—a twist on the classic white button-up.
• Bottoms: A pleated denim skirt, a fresh take on a traditional silhouette.
• Shoes: Knee-high red boots—a bold but wearable statement piece.
• Accessories: Interesting earrings (a go-to for me as a bald woman, but feel free to personalize with your own favorite accessories).

Why it works: The pieces are classic, but the materials and colors make the outfit feel intentional and unique—perfect for a creative role.

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Corporate & Conservative: Warm Weather Outfit

Dressing for a hot, humid climate while maintaining professionalism can be tricky, but breathable fabrics are the solution:

• Top & Bottoms: A linen button-up and wide-leg linen pants—cool, lightweight, and polished.
• Accessories: A thick brown belt at the waist for structure.
• Shoes: White low-heeled mules for comfort and sophistication.
• Jewelry: Simple gold hoop earrings keep things refined.

Why it works: Linen is the ultimate warm-weather fabric—yes, it wrinkles, but a quick steam before heading out keeps it sharp.

☝️ Pro tip: I personally opt for a long-sleeve shirt to cover my tattoos in conservative spaces, but this is up to your comfort level!

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Creative / Nonprofit: Warm Weather Outfit

This final look is polished but playful—ideal for a workplace that values creativity:

• Bottoms: A raspberry-colored linen pencil skirt—lightweight with a bold pop of color.
• Top: A puff-sleeve button-up (Ralph Lauren makes great ones, and they’re easy to thrift!).
• Accessories: A suede belt in a slightly darker shade than the skirt for a monochromatic effect.
• Shoes: Dr. Scholl’s mules—comfortable and stylish.
• Jewelry: Clip-on doorknocker earrings—a vintage-inspired statement.

Why it works: The combination of color, texture, and accessories makes this outfit creative yet professional, showing off personality while maintaining workplace polish.

☝️ Pro tip: Open-toed shoes can be a controversial choice—if you decide to wear them, make sure your feet are in impeccable shape!

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Final Thoughts

Whether you’re heading to a corporate job interview or stepping into a creative workplace, dressing intentionally helps you feel more confident, comfortable, and in control. Until next time stay sustainable, intentional, and uniquely you!

Need help refining your personal style? Let’s work together to build a wardrobe that aligns with who you are and where you’re headed.

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