What to wear for a job interview in the creative fields seems like squaring the circle. Job interview outfits in the creative field should convey the message that you are professional, can fit in, but also stand out.
However, all the points about neatness (makeup, grooming, wrinkle-free clothes, polished shoes, clean clothes, etc.) discussed for a job interview in a conservative field, apply also when you go to a job interview for a creative position. Therefore, you pick an outfit under the same considerations as for a job in a conservative field, but style it a bit less formal to send the message that you are creative. Read how to dress for success when it comes to how to dress for a job interview in the creative fields work environment. Get inspired by the job interview outfits for the creative field.
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What to Wear when the Interview Is Online
If the job might involve hybrid work, there might be also a zoom, skype or other online meeting involved as a first step to create a short list. Dress in all solid colors. Busy pattern like hounds tooth, glen-check, herringbone, polka dots create dizzying screens on the other side. It would come across as not only unprofessional, but also as you being unable to work from home.
Show them that you can dress for live streaming. Focus on a statement piece on your chest because that’s all they may see of your look, but dress fully. Also make sure that the background shows you in your at-home office.
Tip: Wear unexpected combinations of low and medium high fashion, cheap and more expensive as on-site job interview outfits for the creative field.
What to Wear to Fit in, but Show Your Creativity
The goal is to combine classic pieces with one item that shows your creativity. Here is how you can play this card out.
Tip: In creative fields, black is always a good idea.
- Black slim pants, tapered trousers, 3/4 pants, wide slack pants are great options. Pair them with a colorful or bright-colored solid shirt, may be with a camisole underneath. In contrast to the conservative work field, you can sport open-toe pumps when it is appropriate for the weather. Wedge or heel ankle boots are great options too. Go for a statement belt or accessory. Leopard, zebra, giraffe or snake print are great options for the belt, shoes or bag (but only one animal print at a time).
- Another option is a black pencil skirt with a colorful printed blouse worn over the skirt and hold in shape by a statement belt. Add a large structured bag and black pumps.
- In warm climate or summer, what about a solid color knee-length dress with pumps and bag in another color or with a printed structured bag or pumps?
Tip: When you apply for a leading position, or the creative job requires dinner with clients, a lunch may be part of the interview. Then your outerwear becomes part of your job interview outfit. Choose it accordingly.
Tip: If the company has a webpage, browse what people wear, and create an upscale version of the looks.
How to Handle Your Outerwear Accessories
Tip: Never wear a hat or sunglasses inside when interviewing for a position.
If it is a sunny day and you needed sunglasses for driving to the interview, take them off before going in. Do not shift them in your hair like you often do at the beach or for style on weekends. It’s too casual and gives the wrong impression that you can’t wait to get out to explore the town.
If your interview is in the middle of the winter, you will need a hat. Go for a hat that does ruin your blowout by giving you a hat head. Berets are great for curly hair and bobs. Always take the hat off immediately when you get inside. It is part of being respectful!
Also, follow the glove etiquette, i.e., take them off.
Remember, it is always better to be slightly overdressed than under-dressed.
Being overdressed is seen as respect, while being under-dressed conveys the message “I don’t care.”
Wrapping Up Job Interview Outfits in the Creative Field
To dress for success for a job interview in a creative field dress like for a job interview outfit in the conservative field, but add one item that expresses your creativity. A work bag in a statement color or a designer bag in an unusual form from a barely known brand is a great way to convey the message that you see trends before others do.
You can more tips for professional outfits and various other dressing situations in midlife, in my style recipe book “How to Dress for Success in Midlife”. Buy your copy now.
Photos: G. Kramm
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