Choosing what to wear to a private equity interview is usually one of the last steps of your prep process. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the more important.

As with any professional interview, your appearance is critical in forming first impressions. This is even more true in private equity given how conservative it is as an industry.

Dress Conservatively

The most important thing is to make sure you’re “buttoned up.” No one will ever fault you for dressing too conservatively, but you’ll almost certainly book yourself an early interview exit if you come in looking too casual.

Generally, this means avoiding any loud, flashy, over-the-top, or unkempt-looking outfits. If in doubt, it’s always best to play it safe.

The PE interview dress code playbook

Here are a few tips on what to wear to help you nail the conservative finance look for your upcoming private equity interview:

• Choose a dark-colored suit: A dark-colored suit is the only choice when it comes to creating a polished, professional look. Navy blue or charcoal gray are safe options that will never go out of style. That said, do not wear black — you’re not going to a funeral.
• Same thing on your dress: Always better to err on the side of caution and wear something more traditional for the interview.
• Make sure that your outfit is well-tailored and fits you properly. This is incredibly important and can prevent you making yourself look like a bozo. Some stores, like Indochino, offer relatively inexpensive made-to-measure suits which will look much better than an ill-fitting $3,000 option.
• Wear a traditional shirt: Opt for a classic, long-sleeved collared shirt in white or light blue. Avoid patterns and look for something that is slim-fit or regular-fit (just not overly baggy). Charles Tyrwhitt is a good option that won’t break the bank.
• Select a conservative tie: Choose a tie in a solid color or with a subtle pattern. Avoid any ties that are too loud or bright. Ensure that it’s well-matched with the rest of the outfit. And make sure you actually wear a tie — your interviewers may not have one on, but you’ll be expected to.
• Avoid anything flashy: Don’t come in too hot. If you’re a junior professional, absolutely do not wear anything that is overly expensive, gaudy, or a recognizable high-end luxury brand. Leave the Patek your Dad got you at home, don’t wear the Gucci deal sleds, no red bottoms, and ditch the Hermès tie.
• Keep the drip simple: Opt for understated pieces that are not too distracting, such as stud earrings, a simple necklace, and a watch. Avoid large hoops or chandelier earrings, chunky bracelets, or oversized statement necklaces.
• Pay attention to your shoes: Shoes are just as important as the rest of the outfit, so choose wisely. Wear clean and polished oxfords or plain loafers in black or brown. Avoid shoes that are too flashy. No monkstraps, no horsebits, no rubber soles or weird Wal-Mart shoes. Allen Edmonds is a solid, mid-tier choice. If you’re a student, check out Goodwill if other options are too pricey. Many universities also have resources.
• Don’t blow it all with your sock choice: For whatever reason, far too many interviewees make very strange sock picks. You should opt for a dark-colored pair of simple dress socks. Do not wear ankle socks with a suit. Do not wear Nike mid-calves. Don’t go with the no-sock or sockless look. Don’t wear anything that is bright, loud, or has a ton of designs on it.

At a minimum, make sure your outfit isn’t a distraction. Ideally, use it to reinforce the idea that you are a highly polished candidate that the firm will be comfortable bringing to board meetings, management presentations, or discussions with portfolio company executives.

What to wear to a private equity interview doesn’t stop at your choice of clothes

It may seem obvious, but personal grooming and hygiene is something you need to double check on before you head into the interview. Doubly so, given how uptight many private equity professionals tend to be.

Keep it fresh

Get a fresh trim, make sure your nails are in order, and don’t go crazy on the perfume or cologne. Again, it’s all about looking sharp and professional. You have an opportunity to signal that you are responsible, have everything put together, and are ready to go.

Don’t look like you just rolled out of bed

Make sure your suit, dress, and shirt aren’t wrinkled (or dirty). Head to the dry cleaner and get everything you want to wear tightened up ahead of your interview. If you’re flying, try to get to the hotel in time to iron. If that’s not possible, think about packing some wrinkle spray.

Make yourself acceptable to the most conservative audience

Go with a clean shave. This is not the time to impress the team with the ‘stache you’ve been working on. No wild haircuts, either. Cover any ink, avoid any piercings, keep makeup light, and make sure your outfit is neither too tight nor too baggy.

That’s all you need for private equity interview success

Really not too difficult to figure out what to wear to your next private equity interview. Come in buttoned up, and before you know it you’ll have a firm vest that you can wear everywhere (including when it’s 95 degrees outside).