The 14 Summer Interview Outfits That'll Keep You Professional and Cool
Anyone who’s ever gone through the job hunting process knows that getting dressed for an interview can be one of the most stressful parts—and that’s including the interview itself. Okay, so maybe that’s just those of us who love fashion so much, but even so, it can get even trickier if you’re factoring the heat of summer into things. Putting together a summer interview outfit that’ll speak to your professionalism without leaving you in a pool of sweat during your commute is no easy feat, especially when you’re trying to make a good impression.
However, creating an interview outfit that keeps you cool while also showing that you’ve got the chops for the job (because we know you do) can be done. Whether you’re working with breathable fabrics and boxier suit pieces or are choosing dresses and skirts, you don’t have to compromise your comfort for professionalism.
To illustrate our point, we turned to our favorite street style stars for warm-weather looks appropriate for any type of interview, whether you’re looking to work at a business firm or a startup. Take a look at their perfect interview style below, and then shop similar pieces for yourself.
If you’re interviewing in a more formal environment, tap into a retro trend with a pussy-bow blouse, and pair it with a checked pencil skirt to show that you know your worth.
Red is a major power color.Available in sizes XS to L.
Hoping for something on the more comfortable side without compromising your polish? A pair of wide-leg white trousers styled with a silk blouse will give you exactly what you’re looking for.
These are surprisingly versatile.Available in sizes 24 to 30.
Coordinate your lightweight blouse and skirt to match for a polished, put-together look that doesn’t require many layers.
A pair of cropped wide-leg trousers and a silk blouse will help you breathe—even on the hottest and most humid days.
You’ll look so professional with this blouse.Available in sizes 0 to 12.
Opting for a pair of linen pants instead of your standard black trousers will give your legs extra breathing room and comfort while also keeping you cool.
If you’re applying to a more creative or casual company, don’t be afraid to let your personality show. An animal-print top in a smart silhouette will read professional when paired with trousers.
Swap out your leopard print for tiger this summer.Available in sizes 0 to 4.
A billowy oxford shirt paired with matching trousers will instantly give you an air of professionalism. Try an olive green combination to stand out from the standard office hues.
Olive is an unexpected yet elevated color for trousers.Available in sizes 00 to 12.
Throw a pinstripe blazer over a colorful tank top to give your ensemble more coverage. Bonus points if you mix and match your prints. Don’t worry—you can remove the blazer in transit.
An A-line midi skirt will always give your outfit a look of elegance. Style it with a lightweight short-sleeve sweater for an unexpected contrast in texture.
If you feel the need to wear a blazer but don’t want to feel suffocated, test out wearing an oversize version of the office staple to give yourself some extra room to breathe.
A pair of kick-flare pants will always feel chic and professional when worn with a pair of classic heels and a colorful blazer.
A dress in the summer is a great choice to stay cool, and a striped shirtdress will always look professional. You’ll have the best of both worlds.
You’ll always look professional in a shirtdress.Available in sizes 0 to 12.
Another great dress option is a solid, polished color that's bright enough to show off your creativity while elevated enough to demonstrate your professionalism. Add a pair of pointy toe heels to finish off the look.
If you need more coverage, style this dress with a cardigan.Available in sizes 10 to 16.
One foolproof summer interview outfit is a white button-down shirt with an A-line midi skirt. You can feel confident that you won’t have to worry about getting overheated.
You’ll feel ready for any job in this skirt.Available in French sizes 34 to 42.
Now that you know what to wear, you can spend your time prepping (and acing) that interview.
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