How to Dress
Professional dress varies widely across industries and companies. This guide teaches you how to think about workplace attire and gives you general style categories so you can adapt with confidence.
Purpose of This Guide
Rather than providing a rigid rulebook, we'll help you understand the principles behind professional dress so you can make informed decisions for any situation. You'll learn to think strategically about workplace attire and adapt confidently to different professional environments.
Universal Principles of Professional Presentation
These principles apply across all industries and situations. Check each card as you master these fundamentals.
Factors That Influence Dress Expectations
Consider These Variables
Professional dress expectations aren't one-size-fits-all. Understanding these factors helps you make the right choice for each situation.
Region
West Coast casual vs. East Coast formal
Industry
Finance vs. Tech vs. Creative
Company Culture
Size and culture matter
Event Type
Interview vs. office vs. networking
Client-Facing
External vs. internal roles
Three Main Dress Code Categories
Click to explore each style
Casual
Relaxed, comfortable clothing that is still neat and presentable.
Typical Pieces Include:
- Clean jeans or chinos
- Simple shirts or sweaters
- Comfortable closed-toe shoes or clean sneakers
Used For:
- Campus events
- Some tech or creative workplaces
Business Casual
A more polished version of casual. No full suits required, but purposeful effort shows.
Typical Pieces Include:
- Chinos or tailored pants
- Knee-length or longer skirts
- Blouses, sweaters, collared shirts
- Cardigans or casual blazers
- Closed-toe shoes, loafers, dressy flats
Used For:
- Most internships
- Career fairs
- Office days
- Company sessions
Why It Matters:
It communicates professionalism without being overly formal.
Business Formal
Formal, structured attire traditionally worn in conservative industries.
Typical Pieces Include:
- Matching suit sets
- Dress shirts or professional blouses
- Formal skirts or pants
- Dress shoes or closed-toe heels
- Conservative color palette (navy, black, gray)
Used For:
- Finance, consulting, law
- Formal interviews
- High-stakes presentations
Situation Matcher
Get Personalized Recommendations
Select your situation to receive tailored dress code guidance.
What Should I Wear?
Situational Examples
Common Scenarios
Career Fair
- Aim for business casual
- Neutral pieces
- Comfortable closed-toe shoes
- Bring a layer (blazer or cardigan)
Startup Interview
- Polished casual
- Avoid overdressing
- Full suits may feel mismatched
- Clean, intentional choices
Wall Street Interview
- Full business professional
- Conservative colors
- Structured attire
- Polished shoes
Personal Style & Identity
Be Authentically You
Professional ≠ Uniform
Cultural attire can be fully appropriate in professional settings.
Jewelry, hair, makeup, and personal expression are welcome within a neat, intentional presentation.
Students shouldn't feel pressure to match a single "look" — authenticity and professionalism can coexist.
When in Doubt...
Quick Decision-Making Tips