A tie has always been an essential part of the traditional business attire and office workwear, and it is especially crucial if you’re dressing for a job interview, attending a job fair, or taking headshots.

You might dislike ties because they’re uncomfortable and generally prefer to be without them. But you've gotten to the interview stage after a long grueling job serach so go the extra mile.

With the smart casual look becoming more popular among work spaces, you are probably wondering if it’s even worth it to invest in a small collection of men's slim fit ties.

 

 

You've come so far in your job search. Since you’re considering wearing a tie, it probably means you’re putting thought into your job interview outfit to give a good first impression. You are probably aware of how a tie adds value. And you’re on the right track. 

Despite the changing trends, ties are still more important than you think. When you’re preparing for your job interview, you might want to go with your gut feeling and wear a tie.

When it comes to tie colors and navy suit, check out this guide here. Remember to think about what color you want to wear for the interview too. 

Proper Dress Code

Picking out what to wear for a job interview is an important part of your preparation process. Not only do employers listen to the answers you give to their questions, your appearance plays a big part in first impressions too.

Your prospective employer is already forming an opinion of you as soon as you walk into the room or when you sign into your zoom interview. Since you have taken the time to prepare for job interview questions, you should put the same effort in selecting the right dress code for your outfit.

It only takes a few minutes to decide what you will wear, and if done right, it will play in your favor. Depending on what role or industry your job interview is for, you can consider business casual or semi-formal attire. 

Consider what the day-to-day business dress would look like if you get the role. To leave a good impression, wearing the appropriate clothes will only give you a leg up on the competition and present yourself in the most professional manner.

 

Research Company Culture

Dressing properly also shows that you did your research on the company culture and whether they're more lax or strict than business casual.

If you’re applying to work in the finance sector, a business formal attire is most likely the norm, unless the company website and company's dress code suggests otherwise. 

Dressing according to the company culture indicates whether you are the right fit for the company and if you will be able to mingle with the team. Keep reading as we have an easy quiz to help determine if you should wear a tie.

 

 

Should I Wear a Tie?

For business casual interviews, we recommend wearing a solid collared shirt paired with navy or grey slacks dress pants. If you opt for a tie, ensure it complements your outfit without being too flashy. Adding a tie helps maintain a polished, professional appearance, preventing the look from becoming too casual.

Depending on the job, you might consider wearing a tie to your job interview. There are cases in which you are less likely to need to wear a tie, but it’s better to be safe.

If you’re applying for a government or bank job, then the answer is yes. If you don’t wear a tie, the employer will take you less seriously and may have already moved on.

If you’re seeking to work in the creative industry, then probably not. 

Your first instinct would be to ditch the tie because the design industry is more likely to prefer a more laid back attire. However, those who work in this sector have a very good eye for presentation. 

You may think that a tie doesn’t make much difference, but you would be surprised at how much it can complete your look and give off a better impression. Here's our favorite solid black tie for business formal job interviews.

 

  

Best Ties for Job Interviews

Ties come in different shapes, colors and patterns. They don’t necessarily need to be neutral. They’re an accessory that you can dress up or dress down depending on the type of opportunity you are applying to.

Here is a list of characteristics that you need to consider before choosing the appropriate tie for you.

  

Wide Vs Slim Ties

Generally, skinny ties look more stylish and professional, but it never hurts to try on different sizes to see which one is the best fit for you. We break down the different types of ties for men here.

Wider ties look better if you have a broader build, and slim ties are best if you’re on the skinnier side. The size has to be proportional to your body but also be coordinated with the look you’re going for.

 

Colors to Consider

There are a ton of colors to choose from when you go tie shopping, to the point where it can be overwhelming. Consider the following options to choose an appropriate color for your outfit, skin complexion, and of course, for the perfect job interviews. 

A navy blue tie is the most common and elegant choice that never goes wrong.

A blue tie is soft on the eyes and elicits a feeling of trustworthiness and sincerity. It’s an excellent option if you’re going for a simple yet classy look especially if you are new to the industry. Pair your blue tie with your black suit and navy shirt.

 

Grey ties look great if you’re looking to pair it with lighter suits and dress shirts. 

 

A burgundy red tie looks much less arrogant than a crimson red tie. If you want to stand out with confidence, then a burgundy red color is the right choice for you. 

To complete the look, pair it with a black, grey or a navy blue suit for the red to pop without seeming overbearing. 

 

 

 

Yellows ties are definitely out there and not the best choice if you’re applying to a white-collar job. 

However, if you are looking to get into the design and media sector, a yellow tie will show your confidence, personality, and more than anything, that you’re not afraid to take calculated risks.

Pair your yellow tie with a grey or navy blue suit to tone it down, yet make an appearance.

 

 

Try Subtle Tie Patterns 

Patterns look good especially if you want to get more creative, but be careful to not be distracting.

Thick slant stripes are the best option if you’re looking to touch up a neutral outfit, especially for a corporate job interview. 

Avoid thin stripes. They look unprofessional and take the attention away from you.

There are two choices: small checks and large checks.

Smaller checks are great for ties with two contrasting colors. Larger checks are classier and look best when they are composed of the same color but in two different shades.

Floral, paisley or personalized patterns are great if you already got the job, but not recommended if you’re going for your first interview. 

If you feel it’s an appropriate choice for the company, then go for it but be strategic about it. It’s not a bad idea to have one in your tie collection in case you need it for an occasion.

Should i wear a tie clip to an interview?

Wearing a tie clip to an interview is a good idea if you are wearing a tie. Tie clip placement is important and a properly positioned tie clip can help keep your tie in place and add a polished touch to your overall appearance.

However, it's not a strict requirement, and if you prefer not to wear one, it won't negatively impact your interview. The focus should be on presenting yourself professionally and confidently during the interview.

 

 

Tips for Choosing the Right Tie

Here are three key tips to help you select the perfect tie for your interview:

1. Choose a Color That Complements Your Outfit and the Company

For more traditional or corporate environments, stick to neutral or subtle colors. If you’re applying to a creative company, you can go for brighter or bolder colors, but be sure to balance them with the rest of your suit and shirt.

2. Opt for Patterns That Fit the Culture

Stripes are a safe, classic option if you want a patterned tie. Keep it professional, especially if you're in a conservative field. Reserve bolder patterns for more relaxed or creative industries where they’re more acceptable.

3. Pick the Right Tie Size for Your Build

Ensure your tie is proportional to your body size. A tie should reach just above your belt. Avoid ties that are too short, too long, or overly narrow. The goal is a well-proportioned, neat look that enhances your professional appearance.

A well-chosen tie can help you make a strong, polished first impression during your interview.

 

What About Your Dress Shirt?

Your shirt plays a big part in your interview outfit too. When it comes to dress shirts for an interview, go for solid colors instead of loud patterns that will end up becoming distracting.

Whites and blues are pretty standard for professional-looking colors that go well with anything. These white dress shirt and blue dress shirts have sold out from Nimble Made over 8x. 

 

What to Avoid Wearing for an Interview

It’s all about making a good first impression no matter the dress code, which means wearing the right things and avoiding everything else.

You already know what to wear, so now let’s take a look at what you shouldn’t wear if you want to make the perfect first impression.

• Accessories: First off, don’t go overboard on your jewelry. Avoid wearing much more than a wedding band if you’re married, and a watch that looks professional. This includes piercings. Your piercings may not be too noticeable, but you should try to present yourself as cleanly as possible, especially if you’ll be interviewing in a more corporate environment
• 
• Casual Clothes: Even if you’re not interviewing for the most formal job out there, you still want to stay away from choosing something that’s too casual. Don’t wear a t shirt, avoid sportswear, wear proper dress shoes, and even in hot weather, make sure that you’re put together properly.
• Making a Fashion Statement: You want to present yourself as an individual with your own unique sense of style, but avoid anything that’s too over the top. This is not the right situation for making a fashion statement. If you have a fun tie, maybe save that tie for when you have a job at the office and choose something a little more professional when you go out on your interview.

 

Conclusion

To sum it up, the bottom line is to wear a tie unless you have been instructed not to. You’re at the end of your job search and going on your interview and you’re terrified that you’ll dress wrong right out of the gate. The best thing you can do is to dress your best, and pick out a great tie that will work for your office environment. 

The right business casual look and accessories will help you make a great first impression on your employer, and just might help you get that job! Follow our tips and feel confident about your outfit so you can focus on the rest of your interview without worrying.

If you're looking to wear a bow tie or a suit jacket for more formal events, we have a separate how-to guide for you there.

 

FAQs 

1.Is it good to wear a tie to an interview?

Wearing a tie to an interview is generally a good idea, especially for corporate, finance, law, or other formal industries. It conveys professionalism and attention to detail. However, in more casual or creative fields, a tie may not be necessary.

2. Is it unprofessional to not wear a tie?

It depends on the industry and company culture. In traditional business settings, not wearing a tie may be seen as too casual. However, in modern workplaces with relaxed dress codes, a well-fitted dress shirt or blazer without a tie can still look professional.

3. What is unprofessional to wear to an interview?

Avoid overly casual attire such as t-shirts, jeans, sneakers, or anything wrinkled or ill-fitting. Loud patterns, excessive accessories, and clothing that is too tight or too loose can also appear unprofessional. Always aim for a polished, clean, and well-groomed look.

4. What should a man wear to a job interview?

A man should wear a well-fitted dress shirt, dress pants, and dress shoes at a minimum. For corporate or formal industries, add a tie and a suit jacket. In business casual settings, a blazer with a button-down shirt may be sufficient. Always research the company’s dress code beforehand.