With business casual and interview outfits taking over TikTok, Gen Z is driving a fresh wave of fashion-conscious choices for the workplace. But while your personal style matters, a job interview still calls for a certain level of polish. The first impression you make is powerful -- and dressing appropriately can make or break it. Employers expect professionalism, even if they embrace creativity.

Figuring out what to wear to an interview comes with a few gray areas. Here's everything you need to know about proper interview attire -- including what works best for different types of interviews, frequently asked questions, and how to dress to make your best impression.

Visual communication speaks volumes. Think about it from your future employee's perspective. In their eyes, proper interview attire shows respect for the company, the interviewer, and the role itself.

"Dressing sharply demonstrates commitment and helps set the tone for the kind of environment you're aiming to contribute to or create," says salon owner Rachel Voss. Think of job interview apparel as a part of your overall message; it reflects that you took the time to match your appearance to the expectations of the workplace.

You may be a Gen Z with a less traditional take on fashion, but the hiring managers evaluating you will most likely be from older generations, so keep that in mind to understand how crucial dressing for a job interview can be. Your outfit speaks before you do, setting a tone that can reinforce (or detract from) what you have to say. So, while your skills and qualifications matter most, what you wear is a powerful first step.

Choosing proper interview attire comes down to three main factors: the type of company, the role, and your personal style within professional limits. Here's what to keep in mind when deciding what to wear to a job interview:

Different interviews call for different levels of formality. Below are some common outfits for interviews based on interview types, from in-person to virtual.

If you're interviewing in person, you're likely stepping into the company's workspace, and dressing well shows you respect the environment. In most cases, business formal or business casual is the safest choice. Think of a well-tailored blazer, classic trousers or a skirt, and closed-toe shoes.

For a virtual setting, you can scale down a bit -- but not too much. You're still meeting face-to-face (even if it's over a screen), so opt for casual job interview attire. A nice button-up, sweater, or polo paired with tailored pants will give you a clean, professional look.

Casual environments, like startups, may allow a little more freedom. Here, a well-coordinated business casual job interview look is a good choice. Think neat jeans or chinos with a sweater or a smart, well-fitted top. You still want to appear polished but can add a touch of personality.

In panel interviews, you're presenting yourself to multiple people, often of varying seniority. Opt for an outfit that's versatile, such as a simple but well-cut suit or a classic blouse and skirt. Neutral tones and minimal accessories work best here to keep things professional and balanced.

If you're meeting at a job site, such as a construction project or an environmental field site, aim for a balance of safety and style. Opt for something practical but professional, like clean chinos, sturdy boots, and a button-up shirt. For medical or clinical roles, scrubs might be acceptable if you know that's the norm.

In summer 2024 we all got the mindful and demure message loud and clear. But there was some truth to that viral moment. For makeup and hair, go with a minimalist approach unless the role demands otherwise.

"Simple, well-thought-out styling ensures your skills and personality remain in focus, and it echoes the high standards you uphold in professional settings," Voss says. "An understated and neat presentation allows your potential to shine through without distraction."

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You know the dos, now let's talk don'ts. Here are a few common mistakes to steer clear of:

Figuring out the clothes to wear to an interview is as important as practicing your answers. Aim to look professional and polished, with a touch of personal style. With these tips, you'll find the perfect outfit to make a strong, confident entrance and leave a lasting positive impression.

It depends. For creative or startup roles, clean, dark jeans might be okay. However, for corporate or formal settings, it's best to stick to pants or skirts.

Dresses are perfectly suitable if they're not too short or flashy. You might want to pair it with a blazer or structured cardigan to add professional polish.

In most cases, closed-toe shoes are a safer choice, particularly in conservative or corporate settings.

Absolutely -- black is classic and always looks polished. Just avoid head-to-toe black if the company culture is more relaxed.

If you're interviewing in a medical setting where scrubs are the norm, this can be acceptable. Confirm with the recruiter to be sure.

Generally, hats aren't recommended unless the company's dress code explicitly allows them -- or unless you're wearing a hard hat on a construction site.

Yes, a sweater can work well, especially for business casual settings. Opt for a fitted, solid-color sweater, and layer it over a button-down shirt, or pair it with tailored pants to keep it polished.

Leggings are generally not recommended unless they're paired with a long top and it's a very casual environment. For most interviews, it's best to stick to structured pants or skirts.

A polo shirt can be suitable for certain casual or creative roles. Choose a well-fitted, solid-color polo and pair it with chinos or pants for a polished look.

Sneakers can work in some casual or creative settings but should be clean and understated. For traditional corporate environments, stick to dress shoes or loafers for a more professional look.