What to Wear for the Interview When It's Hot Outside

John Krautzel
Posted by in Career Advice •


Many job seekers are troubled about what to wear to an interview when it is sizzling hot outside. What you choose to wear to your interview during warm weather depends on if you will be traveling by car, bus or walking to your interview. Consider what interview gear is most appropriate that can help you stay cool at the same time.

Choose Lightweight, Bright Materials

If your interview is on a warm day, choosing professional interview gear that is forged in a lightweight material can help you ward off the heat. Lightweight linen and cotton blends are great selections that allow for good airflow. Avoid polyester material that can make you sweat more in humid conditions. If you are applying for a high-ranking position and driving to your interview, wearing a complete suit instead of casual business attire is completely appropriate.

Check Your Shoes

Strappy sandals may seem like a great option in the sun, but some employers consider sandals to be totally inappropriate interview gear. Avoid wearing sandals to an interview if possible, and never wear flip-flops. Choose a closed-toe shoe, or wear a shoe with minimally sized openings. Men should avoid wearing sandals to an interview as part of their interview attire.

Leave The Summer Clothes at Home

Avoid wearing shorts, summer dresses or other summer clothing to your interview. Keep in mind that most flowery prints and shocking colors are generally unprofessional for an interview, and avoid sleeveless apparel as well. Try wearing casual business attire to play it safe. If you are on the fence about whether your interview gear is appropriate or not for the office, err on the side of caution and choose something else to wear.

Consider a Hat

For women and men, wearing a hat on the way to the interview is a good option for keeping the sun off your face if you are walking or riding a bus there. An alternate option is to bring an umbrella to avoid getting an embarrassing sunburn right before you meet the hiring manager. Be sure to remove your hat when you enter the building to show respect and professionalism.

Don't Forget Your Tie

No matter how hot it is outside, do not neglect to wear a tie. Wearing a tie adds an extra polished touch to your interview gear. Since keeping a tie around your neck during a long commute may be uncomfortable in warm weather, consider putting your tie on immediately before you enter the interview facility.

If you are not commuting by car to your interview, choosing interview gear that helps you stay cool is even more of a priority. Don't forget to bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated, and take your time walking in too. This can help you avoid breaking a sweat, keeping you looking calm, collected and confident when it's time for your interview.


Photo courtesy of imagerymajestic at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

 
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  • Nancy Anderson
    Nancy Anderson •

    @David even for a second interview over lunch you should look your best. @Chris I respectfully disagree with your comments. Maybe it is funny that you can tell who is coming in for an interview because they are in suits but I still think that you should wear one because it shows that you respect them and that you put some thought into the interview. You only get one chance to make a first good impression so you should make the best of it. @Michelle pantyhose do seem to be outdated but I would never go on an interview without wearing them. I think it looks very unprofessional for a woman to have a dress, skirt or suit on and then you see her bare legs. Charisse admits to wearing high heels and hose but removing them after the interview. That's just my opinion and it may be an old-fashioned one but I stand by it. Years ago, when I first started interviewing for jobs, I was told to dress for the job I want, not the job I have. Best of luck to all of you.

  • claudia r.
    claudia r. •

    I agree with you . You must look professional. First impression is always important. People treat you better and consider if you look sharp.

  • Chris Gofforth
    Chris Gofforth •

    How you dress depends on what the position is about. I would wear what you wear at your current position. Why wear a suit and tie, if you will never do so in the position? It is funny, you can always tell the people coming through on an interview, because they are dressed like old bankers! I just wear slacks and a good shirt. Clean cut, hair well groomed. I think you are there to impress them with your skills, not how nice a wardrobe you have!

  • Charisse S.
    Charisse S. •

    I just had two interviews last week In the middle the H&H at two companies. Hit the ladies room just before and took them off immediately after. Especially since I went to a beach side restaurant later that day for my annual fried clams after the first interview.

  • Jim G.
    Jim G. •

    Also, be sure your shoes are polished. Some employers view unpolished shoes as a sign of laziness and lack of attention to detail.

  • Michelle H.
    Michelle H. •

    What about stockings? They are "out" fashion-wise but are they still necessary for an interview?

  • Joyce B.
    Joyce B. •

    I have an Interview on Monday and its sizzling hot in Atlanta!! Thank you for the tips!!

  • Pamela P.
    Pamela P. •

    Thank you for this article, it's in the low 100's here but I've been on 4 interviews in the last 2 weeks, wearing my faithful black suit! Saying under my breath, it is way too hot to wear this!

  • David R.
    David R. •

    What about a second interview over lunch?

  • Jessica Whelan
    Jessica Whelan •

    this was all very obvious

  • Darrell W.
    Darrell W. •

    Very good tips for staying cool for a big interview during a hot summer day, stay professional and cool at the same time great information, Thank You!!!

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