What to Wear to a Job Interview in Switzerland

What to Wear to a Job Interview in Switzerland: A Guide by Industry (2025)

First impressions matter—especially in Switzerland, where professionalism, modesty, and attention to detail are highly valued. What you wear to a job interview can directly influence how recruiters perceive you, even before you say a word.

But Swiss work culture isn’t one-size-fits-all. Expectations around dress code vary by industry, language region, and even company size.

In this guide, we’ll help you pick the perfect interview outfit—tailored to the Swiss job market and your target industry.

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🇨🇭 General Swiss Interview Style Tips

👔 What to Wear by Industry

💼 Finance, Law, Consulting

Recommended Style: Formal Business Attire

• Men: Dark suit, white/light shirt, conservative tie, leather shoes
• Women: Business suit or blazer with trousers or skirt, neutral colors, closed shoes

💡 Swiss Tip: In Zurich, Basel, and Geneva, formal = default in these fields. Stick to traditional cuts and avoid fashion statements.

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🖥️ Tech, Startups, Digital Agencies

Recommended Style: Smart Casual to Business Casual

• Men: Chinos or tailored pants, button-down shirt or polo, blazer optional
• Women: Blouse with smart trousers or midi skirt, minimalist flats or loafers

💡 Swiss Tip: In cities like Lausanne or Bern, tech interviews may be more relaxed. Still dress “one level up” from the team you’re joining.

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🏫 Education, Non-Profits, Government

Recommended Style: Business Casual

• Men: Shirt and blazer, dark jeans or dress pants
• Women: Blouse or sweater with slacks/skirt, conservative shoes

💡 Swiss Tip: Avoid overdressing—authenticity and modesty are valued. Earth tones and practical style go a long way.

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🏥 Healthcare, Pharmaceuticals, Life Sciences

Recommended Style: Conservative Business Attire

• Men: Clean, professional suit or dress pants with a crisp shirt
• Women: Simple dress or suit, low heels or flats

💡 Swiss Tip: Especially in pharma hubs like Basel, dressing cleanly and professionally shows respect for scientific standards.

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🎨 Creative Roles (Design, Media, Fashion)

Recommended Style: Smart Creative / Trendy Business Casual

• Men & Women: Stylish but polished—tailored jeans, statement shoes, or accessories allowed, but stay interview-appropriate

💡 Swiss Tip: Show personal flair without sacrificing professionalism. Bring a portfolio and let your outfit reflect your creative edge subtly.

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🎯 Final Thoughts

In Switzerland, your interview outfit is part of your personal brand. Dressing appropriately shows respect—for the company, the culture, and yourself. Choose thoughtfully, keep it clean, and let your confidence do the rest.

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