What Colors to Avoid and What to Wear Instead for Your Next Job Interview

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What colors should you wear to a job interview?

I know there are a lot of colors out there, and most of us want to wear our favorite color to a job interview, but I'm here to tell you that wearing your favorite color may not be the best option. Colors that are neutral, such as black, navy, grey, and brown, are ideal for an interview. White is another good neutral color for a shirt or blouse. That doesn't mean you have to wear a dull outfit to make a good first impression; you can add some color or wear a nice statement earring or scarf that reflects your personality.

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Let's talk about each color and how it reflects your personality

1. Black 

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This is something you may not have realized, but black boosts your confidence. Some people feel like they have instant power and boldness when they wear black, but it enhances sadness for me. It's a very dull color to wear, so I like to break it up with a pop of color. If you wear black, the impression you send to the interviewer is that you are charming and elegant. That is one of the main reasons why so many people prefer black for formal occasions and celebrations. 

2. Blue 

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Blue is a great color to wear to an interview. It simply portrays confidence, and you undoubtedly want to make a good impression and demonstrate to the interviewer that you are confident in what you do. This may come as a surprise to you, but blue is the most popular color among men because it represents masculinity. That explains why many men wear blue shirts to interviews. That doesn't mean a woman can't wear blue; you can wear the color of the ocean in a nice blouse to show that you are a stable and productive person who they will want to hire right away. 

3. Grey

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Grey is an excellent neutral color for job interviews. It can give the impression that you are self-sufficient and logical. When you wear it with confidence, it communicates to the hiring manager that you are an independent thinker. If you sweat a lot, which is very common when we are nervous, you should avoid this color. Instead, wear pants or a blazer instead of a blouse or shirt to avoid sweat stains.

4. White 

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Wearing white or beige is a safe bet that will show the hiring manager that you are well-organized. White is one of the most formal and wearable colors. It goes well with a wide range of colors, including black, and most people associate white with black. It is a soothing color that looks good when worn correctly.

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These colors should be avoided, but it depends on the job you're applying for:

1. Purple & Yellow 

Something to keep in mind is that you should choose the color based on the job interview; if you are going for a banker job, stick with neutral colors; if you are going for a job in the creative field, these loud colors will be perfect for you; purple conveys the message of being artistic and unique, while yellow conveys optimism and creativity. 

2. Orange

You adore orange, but wearing it will send the wrong message because orange is a no-no. Orange, in particular, is regarded as the most inappropriate color for an interview, as it can appear overly confident and unprofessional.

3. Green 

When it comes to green, there are mixed feelings; some will tell you it's a no-no, while others will say, "No, go for it!" I believe this color is great for creative field jobs as well. A lighter green is more youthful, cheerful, and peaceful. However, it creates the impression of immaturity. On the other hand, a darker shade of green has the same properties as well as maturity. As a result, darker shades of green not only look good, but they also make a statement.

4. Red

Wearing red can make you appear powerful. However, because it is such a powerful and energetic color, it can become jarring and overpower a room. Instead of going all out with a red jacket, dress, or blouse, think about using red as an accent color. A red earring for a pop of color isn't a bad idea.

5. Brown 

Brown also doesn't give off the best vibe during job interviews. It can come across as reassuring and dependable. In a fast-paced and innovative industry, it may give the impression that you are old-fashioned and weak.

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Here are some additional tips to consider when deciding what colors to wear to an interview:

It is preferable to use solid colors rather than patterns

As previously stated, we want to make a good first impression, so remember this rule: you want the interviewer to remember you, not your fabulous outfit, so wear something that allows them to focus solely on your qualifications. Wearing solids ensures that you look professional and that your clothing does not become a distraction. If you must wear a pattern, make it a small one. Remember this rule when choosing an outfit for your next job interview: "if a pattern looks solid from across the room, it's appropriate for an interview."

Your outfit's dominant color should be neutral

When putting together an outfit, keep in mind that wearing red, for example, will send the message that you are a strong personality who does not take no for an answer. If you're applying for a leadership position, red is a good color to wear, but keep the amount of color you wear to a minimum. The main color should always be neutral, such as navy, black, grey, or brown. All other brighter colors should only be used as accents.

Wear something that gives you confidence

While color is important, you should also think about which items in your wardrobe give you the most courage and confidence. The same is true for any special jewelry or good luck charms you may be able to wear or carry in your pocket. If wearing or carrying something boosts your confidence, you should think about including it.

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