By Editor,Ellen Coughlan,Louise Allingham

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The outfit blunders that could cost you the job, according to an expert, and why you should never wear white

Experts reveal what you are wearing could be costing you your dream job

Read more: Career expert reveals the interview faux pas to avoid – including visible tattoos and designer labels (and why women shouldn’t wear red)

By ELLEN COUGHLAN, ENTERTAINMENT AND LIFESTYLE JOURNALIST and LOUISE ALLINGHAM, FEMAIL REPORTER

Published: 09:53 BST, 3 October 2025 | Updated: 09:53 BST, 3 October 2025

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A top psychologist has revealed why wearing the wrong thing to a job interview can stop you from getting a job.

Dr George Sik, a workplace behaviour expert with over 25 years’ experience, revealed your outfit could be silently slashing your chances of success.

‘First impressions are made in as little as seven seconds.

‘Your clothes aren’t the whole story, but they are the frame through which the rest of you is judged.

‘The wrong choices can speak volumes before you’ve even said a word.’

Alongside Dr George, dress code specialist Julian Nelson, founder of workplace footwear retailer A Fine Pair of Shoes, has identified the five most common outfit mistakes that can sabotage an interview.

According to top psychologist, Dr George Sik, a workplace behaviour expert with over 25 years’ experience, what you wear could be silently slashing your chances of success (stock image)

1. White or busy patterns

While white is often seen as clean and professional, Dr George warned it can send the wrong message.

He explained: ‘Wearing white can feel clinical due to its association with hospital coats and paint you as sterile rather than approachable.’

‘It also shows stains instantly, which is a risky choice when nerves are high and accidents happen!

‘But equally, busy prints and loud patterns can overwhelm the eye.’

Dr George explained that ‘our brains are wired to look for order, especially in stressful settings like interviews.

‘When someone wears overly busy patterns, it creates a kind of visual noise that can leave the impression of disorganisation.’

Psychologists have claimed that blue is one of the best colours to don for a job interview as it ‘exudes calm confidence and authority – a light blue button-up shirt is the ultimate office wardrobe staple.

Purple is another good option for those wanting more charisma, but try a subtle lilac hue rather than a loud violet.

H&M Cotton Blend Shirt

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Lipsy Purple Puff Sleeve Shirt

2. Shoes you can’t walk in

New shoes, unbroken-in heels, or overly casual trainers are all red flags to avoid.

A slight limp from uncomfortable shoes or stumbling in high heels distracts from your answers. ‘Shoes carry huge symbolic weight,’ Julian explained.

‘Polished, well-chosen shoes signal readiness. But shoes that compromise how you move project uncertainty and lack of preparation instead.’

A pair of comfortable loafers is the perfect choice as they are not only versatile and smart, but also the hottest shoe trend you’ll be seeing everywhere this autumn.

Vagabond Loafers

Mango Brown Loafers

3. Distracting jewellery

Even tasteful pieces can undermine you if they jangle or catch the interviewer’s eye too much. And overly large rings or dangling earrings can seem fussy.

‘The interviewer should have nothing distracting them from listening to what you have to say’, Dr George says.

Rather than forgoing jewellery altogether, candidates can opt for subtle yet stylish pieces that won’t cause a ruckus, like a pair of simple hoop earrings or layered chain necklaces.

Simple doesn’t mean plain and boring; play with shapes and textures when it comes to hoops, and have fun with playful necklace pendants.

Two-tones Twist Hoop Earring

M&S Cubic Zirconia Pendant Necklace

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4. An overstuffed or scruffy bag

Recruiters often note that, far too often, candidates focus on the perfect suit, but forget to think about what’s on their back. If you walk in carrying a battered backpack, it sends mixed messages.

‘A bulging, messy bag can hint at disorganisation,’ says Julian, instead recommending a slim, professional bag or portfolio that makes you look business-ready.’

George adds that ‘a professional bag communicates respect for the setting and for yourself.’

The high street is a treasure trove of trendy handbags that look designer without the designer price tag.

Mango City Shoulder Bag

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Dune Dorry Tote

5. Smartwatches

Even if you’re not replying to messages, flicking your wrist to check notifications can make you appear distracted.

‘It creates a subconscious perception that you’re not fully present, which is exactly the opposite of what you want in an interview,’ Dr George explained.

‘Leave it in your bag for the interview; it’ll also stop you appearing as though you’re nervously clock-watching.’

Go without your smart watch for a day and avoid looking at your phone to look at the time or distracting notifications and op instead for a timelessly stylish watch.

Sekonda watch

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Abbott Lyon Burgundy Leather Watch

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