What to Wear for an Interview in India: Complete Dress Code Guide

The fundamental rule is to dress one level above the company's daily dress code. If employees wear business casual, you should wear formal. If they wear casual, you should wear business casual. Research the company's culture through their website, social media, or by asking the recruiter.

Fit matters more than brand. Well-fitted, clean, pressed clothes in neutral colors always look professional. Ill-fitting designer clothes look worse than well-fitted affordable ones.

Grooming is equally important. Clean, trimmed nails, neat hair, subtle fragrance (or none), and polished shoes complete your professional appearance. These details may seem minor but they contribute significantly to first impressions.

Consider the practical aspects of Indian weather. Choose breathable fabrics for summer interviews, carry an umbrella during monsoon season, and ensure your clothes are wrinkle-resistant if you have a long commute.

For corporate and banking interviews, wear a well-fitted formal shirt (white, light blue, or light pink) with dark formal trousers (navy, charcoal, or black). A tie is recommended for banking and consulting. Wear leather shoes (black or brown) with matching belt and dark socks.

For IT and tech companies, business casual is usually appropriate. A collared shirt or polo with chinos or dark jeans (without rips or fading) works well. Clean sneakers or loafers are acceptable. Skip the tie unless the company is particularly formal.

For startups, smart casual is the norm. A well-fitted plain t-shirt or casual shirt with clean jeans or chinos is fine. Avoid shorts, flip-flops, or overly casual graphic tees.

For virtual interviews, dress fully (not just the top half) in case you need to stand up. Solid colors work better on camera than patterns. Avoid bright white shirts that can wash out under lighting, and opt for light blue or pastel shades instead.

For corporate interviews, options include a well-fitted formal kurti with trousers, a saree (if you are comfortable wearing one professionally), a formal blouse with trousers or a pencil skirt, or a Western formal blazer with trousers. Choose what you are most comfortable and confident in.

For IT and tech companies, business casual works well. A neat kurti with straight pants, a casual blazer with trousers, or a smart salwar kameez are all appropriate. The key is looking polished without being overly formal.

For startups, smart casual attire is fine. Well-fitted jeans with a professional top, a casual kurti with leggings, or a smart dress all work. Avoid overly casual or revealing outfits.

Accessories should be minimal and professional. A simple watch, small earrings, and a professional bag are sufficient. Avoid chunky jewelry, excessive bangles, or anything that makes noise and could be distracting.

Banking and finance in India expect the most formal attire. For men, a full suit may be expected for senior roles. For women, formal Western or a silk saree for traditional banks.

Government interviews (UPSC, SSC, state services) call for understated formal wear. Avoid flashy accessories or brands. Conservative, neat, and respectful attire is the expectation.

During Indian summers (April-June), choose lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen. Light colors help reflect heat. Carry a handkerchief or small towel to manage perspiration before entering the interview room.

During monsoon season (July-September), choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics and darker colors that hide water splashes. Carry waterproof bags for your documents and wear shoes that can handle wet conditions. Arrive early to give yourself time to freshen up.