For a job interview, first impressions are absolutely important. Forbes also notes that you have just seven seconds to make your mark on your interviewer. Of course, non-verbal cues like eye contact and posture are important, but your appearance may matter just as much, if not more.

Amongst other things, your choice of shoes can help make or break your appearance. The right shoes can make a huge difference in how you present yourself to your interviewer. Therefore, what should you look for when choosing your interview shoes?

What Are the Best Shoes to Wear to a Job Interview?

When interviewing for a job, choosing the right shoes is just as important as picking out the right outfit. So you have to choose your shoes wisely because your shoes can make or break your first impression. Here are some of the best shoes to wear to a job interview:

Court Shoes

Classic court shoes are a good job interview shoe choice. The front of these shoes is low-cut with no fastening and is quite simple yet elegant. Soft structured leather closed toe, wide heel. An interview shoe that doesn’t expose the full range of your feet and shows off a hint of your personal style is often just right.

Brogues

Brogues are another great option for job interviews. They are versatile and can accompany trousers, skirts, or black jeans to make your interview look quite good. Brogues come in different styles, from classic to decorative, depending on what you are keen to wear them with.

Ballerina Flats

Ballerina flats are a great option if you’re searching for a comfortable yet stylish shoe to wear for a job interview. Simple and unassuming, these shoes would make a good substitute for boots and shoes during the summer. Dark colours are best here and the perfect choice for warmer weather.

Lace-Ups

Lace-up shoes are classic and classy job interview attire. They come in many different materials and can be made from almost anything, but smooth leather in shades of black and brown is probably the most professional one. A pair of lace-ups is a safe but attractive choice if you seek interview shoes that are sturdy, simple, and stylish.

Loafers

Loafers are a fashionable option for men for job interviews. With their pointed toe and open top, these shoes will lend a bit of fashion to any outfit. Even to this day, understood as a mainstay of men’s fashion history, they are still as stylish as they were in the early 1900s.

Remember the colour and style of the shoes when you choose the best shoes for your job interview. Interview shoes tend to be a little darker, and a lower heel is usually more formal. These top picks will help you to look your best and impress everyone with first impressions.

Our Top Interview Shoes Picks

Lilley Viola Women's Black Slip On Court Shoes

Are you looking for a classic and sophisticated shoe for your job interview? The Lilley Viola Women's Black Slip-On Court Shoes are the ones for you. Available in black and burgundy, these shoes are perfect for elevating a simple and minimalistic interview outfit to a more sophisticated occasion that will still not make you look tired. Their slip-on design makes them easy to put on and off, and their sleek black colours make them look good any day.

Beckett Billy Men's Black Lace Up Brogues

The Beckett Billy Men’s Black Lace-Up Brogues are exactly the kind of smart, polished shoes that men can wear for fashion. Punched detailing and smooth lines are stamped on these shoes, which bring a nice little bit of personality without being too much or loud. In fact, I like to pair them with smart trousers or dark jeans, so they are very versatile in your shoe collection.

Lilley Mabel Tan Chelsea Boots

The Lilley Mabel Tan Chelsea Boots are a smart pick for an interview requiring something less formal. These boots have a cute buckle and go best with dark denim jeans for a smart casual look. They’re also pretty versatile; you can even match them with brown trousers for a monochromatic look.

Beckett Briggs Men's Black Smart Chelsea Boots

The Beckett Briggs Men’s Black Smart Chelsea Boots are a no-brainer for a sleek, stylish look. With a bold design and a low heel, these boots are comfortable to wear for long periods of time. They look great with smart trousers or dark jeans.

Lilley Anais Women's Black Patent Loafers

If you’re looking for a reliable and stylish pair of shoes for your job interview, the Lilley Anais Women's Black Patent Loafers will be highly versatile. The shoes here have radiance and a dash of a tassel detail, which makes your outfit lively without overdoing it. You can pair them with skirts, trousers, and more.

Beckett Men's Tan Slip On Shoe with Tramlines

A perfect choice for a comfortable and effortlessly stylish look, the Beckett Men's Tan Slip-On Shoe with Tramlines comes with quite the name for a comfy and stylish slip-on shoe. These shoes are simple yet stylish and perfect with navy trousers, smart jeans or skirts. It is a very versatile thing to add to your wardrobe, which is very helpful for basically any occasion.

What Shoes Should You Avoid for a Job Interview?

Picking your shoes for a job interview is different from choosing what to wear. While you shouldn't wear certain types of shoes to an interview, there are types of shoes that you shouldn't wear to your interview at all. Here are some shoes that you should not wear to a job interview:

• Open Toe Shoes: Although open-toe shoes are comfortable and stylish, they are not appropriate for a job interview. This can give a potential employer a vibe that is not one you want to give off, casual and unprofessional. Closed-toe shoes are best kept closed, creating a somewhat more formal and professional appearance.

• High Heels: High heels can be very giving but aren't the best choice for a job interview. They can make the interview uncomfortable and distracting and will detract from your overall performance. Go instead with a comfortable heel, such as a block or wedge that delivers height without sacrificing comfort.

• Trainers: While trainers make sense for some roles, they have been a poor match for job interviews. When you have to wear trainers, select a pair that is clean and shiny and neutral in colour, like black or white. Don’t use bright colours or logos that could be distracting.

All in all, being aware of your shoes can make a big difference in your impression of a potential employer. If appropriate for the role, stick to clean and polished trainers, comfortable heels, or secure closed-toe shoes. If you cut them out of your wardrobe, you’ll take that first step to that impression of something good.

Job Interview Shoes: Tips and Tricks

Looking for the best shoes for a job interview is a way to get a good first impression. Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the best shoe choice for your interview:

• Outfit: Your shoes can complement your outfit. If you are wearing a suit, go for smart, polished shoes of the same colour as your belt. Wear shoes with neither flashy nor fashionable designs.

• Season: Pick your shoes carefully, considering the weather. In cold or wet weather, wear shoes with a sturdy sole and a closed upper. Don't wear sandals or open-toed shoes—they may be too casual for an interview.

• Condition: Your shoes should be clean and well taken care of. Check for scuffs and wear signs that could detract from their overall appearance. Polishing your shoes can give them a nice-looking polish.

• Socks: Go with plain without many attention-grabbing socks in the colour of your shoes. The colours or patterns should be away from bright ones, which may be distractive. Your socks should be clean and in good condition.

One thing to remember when making a good impression at a job interview is choosing the right shoes. It is just as important to have confidence and a professional demeanour. Think about the role you’re applying for and select suitably formal shoes. If you’re unsure, you’re always better off choosing more conservative shoes.