Q&A for How to Dress for a Banking Job

You could, but I would only recommend doing so if your pants are long enough to hide the white color. If you don't, it will be very obvious that your clothes don't quite match. Otherwise you may want to consider wearing flats or heels without socks.

It depends on the company's dress code, although most banks do not have dress codes that allow for casual clothing like jeans.

That would depend on the bank you're working for. If it's a cooperative, a funky-style bank, then they might not mind. However, most banks are very conservative and prefer the staff to dress accordingly. Check your bank's clothing policies.

You will probably have to tuck your shirt in. There isn't really another way to look professional in a workplace like this. If you're in a higher-level position, you could wear a suit jacket on top of your shirt that covers most of your stomach.

Having a beard is fine, although you want it to look neat at all times, not just for the interview. You do not have to shave it unless you feel it is necessary.

Yes you may. Facial hair isn’t inherently unprofessional, it’s natural. You must keep it neat, however.

Not unless it is required. Some banks will even allow you to wear jeans. I suggest check the clothing policy on the bank you will be applying for. Also see what the current employees wear.

Yes, if it is demanded only of female employees, then it is sexist. It is about how society sees people as looking acceptable, but feel free to do whatever pleases you.

Yes, bow ties are suitable unless they have specifically stated otherwise.

Not really. This goes both ways though, a man would also be frowned upon if he dressed in a deep V neck or open shirt that was excessively showing his chest. Dressing conservatively is almost always recommended for most interviews.

This largely depends on the country/culture and local expectations, as well as the company and their expectations. In most parts of the Western world, however, you could probably just ignore this advice.

As long as your suit fits you well (isn't too big or too small) and it doesn't look like it came from the costume shop, you should be fine. If you were going for a really high end corporate banking job then perhaps you could buy a more expensive suit from a dedicated retailer, but for lower-mid range jobs it might not even be noticed really. If you are really nervous about this you could always just splurge and buy an expensive suit as this will ease your nerves and increase your confidence too, which is never a bad thing.

It depends on the bank but possibly not. Have a chat to a trusted coworker or supervisor/ manager if you'd like, but ideally stick to a more plain/professional look. If in doubt, also see what your coworkers/supervisors are wearing and dress similarly.