Interview clothing

[JFH 12,189]

I saw the Canadians discussing this so I thought it would be interesting to get feedback from the UK on this too. It will be about a year until I get to interview stage but I love to plan ahead!

I was having a discussion with my mother about the interview and I said I would probably get a new dress for it. She thought that was a waste of money and said "it's not a job interview. Just go in your normal clothes".

For those who have had interviews in London already, what did you wear? What did you see others wearing? Suits? Casual clothing? Jeans? Flip flops?

[bob+senga 11]

your mum is right its a waste on money- i wore jeans, trainers, jumper and a heavy jacket as did my daughter( we were just before christmas). Your dress code is not under scrutiny. just wear comfortable clothing for waiting outisde for maybe 10-30 mins and then for sitting in a large waiting room with .ots of other people .good luck

[Anitafeliz 1,133]

Dont look ghetto lol go presentable although not in question its a sign of respect when you go in front of a judge or to an interview it helps with moral...nice pant and button up with loffers should suffice break a leg!!!

[Tracey&Greg 33]

My hubby had his K1 interview in London and dressed smart casual. Brown slacks, ironed shirt and brown sketchers. He wore what he felt comfy in. He said he saw other people in jeans but I personally would just advise otherwise You will be nervous enough as it is so don't stress too much. Good luck!

[Nich-Nick 3,353]

There's always going to businessmen in suits, but it's not the norm. I saw everything the day we were there. Here's a video of an interview (if the link works). You can pause on the people in line outside and get an idea of what people are wearing.

Note on video:

electronics are now OK

K1s do all the courier scheduling online

The questions you see are typical of student visa, not your interview

Edited April 30, 2016 by Nich-Nick

[racheal&david 108]

I wore jeans! I saw people in all kinds of clothing, wear what you are comfortable and confident in. I'd say to stay away from anything offensive. Crazy slogan and neon coloured clothes may make you stand out too much. Good luck, London is super relaxed anyway ?

[YorkshiretoAZ 12]

I wore black jeans, a pink shirt and blazer over the top and some comfy shoes for all the walking I did around London.

People wore casual comfy clothes, a few wore suits but just go with what you find comfy and smart.

[JFH 12,189]

Thanks for the responses so far!

I had not thought about all the walking and the need for comfortable shoes do thank you YorkshiretoAZ for that. I work at home in the spare room barefoot and in old jeans or joggers. Sometimes even pyjamas. So I don't really own any smart clothes. I have my work clothes and going out clothes (that are very goth - not suitable for this!) but no business clothes. I think I'll stick with jeans but get a nice top.

[Nich-Nick 3,353]

I think I'll stick with jeans but get a nice top.

The interviewimg officer only sees you from the chest up

[lost_at_sea 995]

Normal clothes.

I've told this story before, but when I went for my visa interview in London it was the summer, very hot, and also the same time there were lots of teens getting student visas. The girl sat in front of me in the waiting room was wearing an intentionally-ripped t-shirt exposing a majority of her back and tiny hot pants. She was barely dressed (this is not condemnation of her outfit - just an example of how non-formal people are). I was in a light, summer maxi-dress and flip-flops (I lived near the embassy at the time, so wasn't going far).

They don't give a rat's behind what you wear in London. Dress appropriately for the weather - if it's warm, it'll be warm inside for sure - they just have giant standing fans, no proper AC.

Edited May 1, 2016 by lost_at_sea

[gavw72 23]

The interviewimg officer only sees you from the chest up

I was just going to say that!!!

Nice shirt/jumper..... with shorts & flip flops ??

[JFH 12,189]

with shorts & flip flops ??

Not with my tree trunk legs! Don't want to scare anyone.

[DJ6372 111]

nice pant and button up with loffers should suffice break a leg!!!

Pardon??

Edited May 3, 2016 by DJ6372

[Tricked 33]

Kilt