Decoding Interview Dress Codes with Summer Work Clothes

If you’re in the market for a new job, then interviewing is a natural and inevitable part of the process. When interviewing in the midst of the summer heat, you might be wondering how to be professional and comfortable at the same time. After all, you don’t want hiring managers to see you sweat for any reason. Use the following tips as guidelines to help you determine the best approach to selecting summer work clothes, so you create an excellent first impression when you walk into the interview room.

Avoid Heavy Fabrics and Dark Colors for Summer Work Clothes

Dark colors typically absorb heat. Fortunately, business casual summer work clothes often come in lighter colors. Select a light-to-medium gray color or deep blue color over black or dark navy, respectively, when dealing with the summer heat.

Fabric is also key when it comes to selecting summer work clothes. Cotton, cotton blends, and linen fabrics are typically more breathable and keep you cooler than polyester or wool blends. You’ll find several options for women’s summer work clothes and men’s summer work clothes in these fabrics. Also, even though silk blends can be a more refreshing option during the summer, they easily show sweat under the arms and in other areas, so avoid these fabrics for a summer interview.

Avoid Clothing That’s Too Tight or Fitted

Clothing that’s too tight should be avoided in the workplace whether you’re interviewing or not. Even if your summer work clothes don’t appear too tight to the naked eye, if they feel tight or too fitted, they can be uncomfortable because they trap in heat and cling to your skin when you sweat. Go with an outfit that fits you well and you feel comfortable in to help combat the summer heat on interview day.

Ask Someone at the Company About the Dress Code

If you’re uncertain what to wear for your interview, ask the recruiter or hiring manager what they would recommend or what the dress code is for the company. Some organizations might expect a full-on suit, even during the summer, and you don’t want to miss the mark.

It’s usually better to be overdressed than underdressed, so if the dress code is business casual, play it safe by selecting summer business casual clothes that are at least a level or two above the typical dress code of the organization. Short sleeves are probably fine as a business casual option during the summer, but always avoid tank tops, jeans, shorts, sandals or flip flops, and low-cut tops for interviews.

Carry Your Suit Jacket with You

If you opt to wear a suit jacket for your interview, carry it with you and don’t put it on until right before you enter the building. Consider keeping it on the hanger until you get out of your vehicle to avoid wrinkling it beforehand.

Prepare Ahead of Time

Whether you’re interviewing in the winter or the summer, preparation is essential. Check the weather and select an outfit based on the forecast. Have a safety kit with you as well that includes items like a bottle of water, make-up for touch-ups, paper towels to soak up sweat, and wrinkle releaser spray.

Anytime you’re interviewing for a job and have to deal with hot summer temperatures, use these tips to prepare. Doing so will ensure you can focus on the interview questions and not your wardrobe.

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