Fashion psychologist reveals the 8 colors that can make or break your job interview – not all white shirts are equal
A PSYCHOLOGIST with an eye for style has shared the colors to avoid or add to your wardrobe when going for a job interview.
If you think your sense of style is safe with a white shirt, think again because not all of them give off the same vibe in the workplace.
Fashion psychologist and stylist, Joanna Karamanis collaborated with the men’s fashion department at Blake Mill to share eight shades that can help or hurt you in a job interview.
“The clothes we wear not only influence our self-perception but also shape how others perceive us,” Karamanis said.
“Selecting outfits that align with your identity and values enhances confidence and can significantly impact professional interactions.”
COMMON COLORS
WHITE
Karamanis said that the notion that “white looks smart and suits everyone” is not true, and in fact, she called it a “myth.”
” If you don’t have a cool undertone, it can look like you are wearing a uniform, so my advice is to aim for off-white or even cream, allowing you to come across as more approachable,” she explained.
PINK
Another color to be cautious of is pink, which can work for some people in formal interviews but not all.
She said that pink can make some skin tones appear blotchy like they are under stress.
“People with warm skin tones should consider a peachy shade instead,” she recommended.
BLACK
Black is often seen as “stylish and professional,” but it depends on how you wear it.
Karamanis added that “a black shirt or blouse isn’t ideal for an interview and should be avoided,” but a black suit or dress works well.
BLUE
A major go-to color to wear in an interview is blue.
She called it a “typical and reliable color for work and acceptable in lots of industries.”
It also suits different skin tones and “represents a smart and put-together look.”
“However, it is seen as slightly more casual in some industries, so just ensure it suits the industry you are applying for,” she added.
GREEN
“From army green to bright emerald, there is a wide array of greens to choose from,” Karamanis said.
Pale green comes across as more formal, while a bright shade is more “fun” or flamboyant, and army green looks more casual.
Make sure to pick the right one that suits your undertones.
RED
The expert said that red represents “power, passion, and impact.”
If you want to make a bold statement and standout, that is the color to wear.
But fair warning that it is “generally less suitable for a job interview and can come across as informal.”
PURPLE
This shade is a bit more controversial because it could be a “hit or miss” depending on the work environment.
“Purple represents royalty, luxury, and, in some cases, extravagance,” she added.
Karamanis said that it is not often seen as a “formal color,” but purple can be great for many skin tones.
Another tip is that it is also a good option for those hoping to work for a design agency or in fashion.
TEAL
Karamanis called teal a “casual color,” that she wouldn’t advise wearing as a shirt or blouse to an interview.
She said the only two exceptions are if you know it’s a great color on your skin tone and if you know the company has a more relaxed dress code.