Regarding interviews, there is nothing like people ”keep talking”. You have to be formal, intentional, and smart. If you need the job, you will bend to the rules of the job. We all know streetwear is expressive, bold, and often all about personal style. However, while it might be a perfect choice for a casual day out, not all streetwear looks are suitable for a job interview.
Even in creative industries where streetwear might feel acceptable, there are some boundaries to consider if you want to make a polished, professional impression for the first time.
Here’s a guide to five types of street-style dresses to avoid wearing to a job interview and what you could opt for instead.
Graphic T-Shirt Dresses
Graphic t-shirt dresses are comfortable and make a statement, but they can come across as too relaxed or even unprofessional in an interview setting. Graphic prints with bold designs, logos, or text may distract from what you’re trying to communicate and might not send the best impression, especially if the messages on them are too casual.
What to Wear Instead: Choose a simple shift or sheath dress in a solid color. This style is still easygoing but without the graphic elements that can make it feel too casual. If you’d like to keep a touch of street style, try pairing the dress with a fitted blazer or jacket in a muted tone.
Oversized Hoodie Dresses
Hoodie dresses are cozy, trendy, and popular in streetwear, but their oversized, slouchy fit can look too informal. While these dresses offer comfort, they lack the structure and polish that an interview demands. An oversized hoodie dress might suggest a relaxed or too-casual attitude that doesn’t quite fit the professional environment.
What to Wear Instead: Go for a tailored, comfortable knit dress. Knit dresses can still feel relaxed but with more shape and structure. A knit dress with clean lines, preferably in a knee-length or longer, creates a more polished look while staying comfortable.
Slip Dresses
Slip dresses are sleek and effortlessly cool, but they’re often too revealing or minimalist for an interview. The thin straps, flowy fabric, and sometimes sheer quality make them better suited for an evening out or casual occasion. In an interview setting, slip dresses can feel underdressed and may give the impression that you didn’t consider the formality of the event.
What to Wear Instead: Try a satin or silk blouse dress that has a similar feel but with more coverage and structure. Shirt dresses with a satin finish offer the same elegance as slip dresses but in a more professional, office-appropriate silhouette. You could layer it with a structured jacket for an added touch of professionalism.
Dresses with Bold Logos and Brand Names
Streetwear is known for its branded designs, with large logos or brand names often splashed across the fabric. While these might make a statement on the streets, they can come off as a bit too flashy or material-focused in a job interview. Large logos can feel distracting, drawing attention away from you and toward the brand instead.
What to Wear Instead: A classic, minimalist dress in a muted color keeps the focus on you. A wrap dress or a dress with a soft belt detail can give you the style and flair you want without being too flashy. Choose something subtle that shows your professional style rather than the brand.
Distressed or Torn Dresses
Distressed details, like frayed edges or small tears, are major trends in streetwear. While they’re stylish, they give a very casual, edgy vibe that’s usually not interview-friendly. Torn or distressed clothing might be interpreted as unpolished or out of place in a professional setting, regardless of the style’s popularity.
What to Wear Instead: Consider a structured, asymmetrical dress for a similar edgy feel without the distress. An asymmetrical hem can offer that street-style vibe in a way that’s polished and interview-appropriate. Pair it with neutral accessories to keep the look balanced and professional.
Tips for Streetwear-Inspired Interview Outfits
Mix and Match: If you love streetwear, consider balancing a street-style element with something more traditional. For example, you could wear a fitted blazer over a simple dress to add an element of formality.
Keep Accessories Minimal: Streetwear often includes bold accessories, but for interviews, keep things subtle. A small necklace or a simple watch can add style without overpowering your look.
Streetwear can inspire professional outfits that feel authentic and stylish as long as you balance edgy trends with classic professionalism.
