What Color Tie Should You Wear To An Interview?

Of course you want to make the very best impression when you interview for a new job. After all, an interview can be a significant turning point in your career. From appearing relaxed and confident while being on top of your subject, there’s a lot to think about as you prepare.

Since a tie is the spotlight accessory to your shirt and suit, your tie says a lot about you. Therefore, as you prep for your interview, you should give serious thought to the tie color you wear. Why? Because the color of necktie you choose could play a significant role in how you’re perceived in your interview.

If you’re unsure of what color tie to wear to an interview, this guide will give you the confidence to select the perfect interview tie. You’ll learn how certain colors convey feelings and emotions and be able to choose the color that reflects how you want to be seen at your interview.

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The Psychology of Tie Colors

Color surrounds us. Sometimes color affects us at a subconscious level, and other times we perceive color consciously. Blue is often perceived as soothing while red can be exciting! The psychology of color impacts everything, from the colors we choose in and around our homes to the color of car we prefer to drive.

Whether consciously or subconsciously, your tie color also influences others’ perceptions of you. That’s why, when preparing for an interview, you need to choose your tie color consciously and carefully. What are the qualities you want to express?

For example, red also conveys power, authority, and passion. Therefore a red tie may be a great choice if you’re interviewing for a leadership position. However, blue may be a wise choice if you’re interviewing for a collaborative role.

Read our guide on tie colors to learn more about the message your tie color conveys. Once you have a good handle on the psychology of tie colors, explore The Tie Bar’s wide selection of neckties in a beautiful range of colors that will be ideal for any interview.

Best Tie Colors for Job Interviews

Blue Ties

Universally accepted as an informed color choice, a blue tie is a safe and recommended choice for an interview. Why blue? Blue conveys calmness, trustworthiness, and professionalism.

If these are qualities you want to express at your interview, then by all means, a blue tie will be a great choice. A blue tie would be an ideal option if you’re interviewing for a position in management, education, or sales.

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Red Ties

If you want to express power, confidence, and assertiveness, wear a red tie to your interview. However, as mentioned when we discussed the psychology of color, red also conveys authority, control, and passion.

You’ll be exuding some strong emotions and feelings if you wear a red tie. Therefore, red can be an excellent choice for a supervisory role in many professions. But do choose red with thought and caution. Consider the position you’re interviewing for, and then check to see if red aligns with what you want to convey.

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Grey Ties

Grey is a versatile color that pairs well with most suit and shirt colors. The neutral aspect of grey projects a sense of balance, fairness, and professionalism.

A soft dove grey may express compromise and gentleness. A more dramatic dark charcoal can convey strength and modernity. A medium tone of grey would be a great color choice if you’re interviewing for a job in retail or hospitality.

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Black Ties

A black suit or jacket is a versatile clothing staple, but a black tie is a different matter. Since black typically expresses sophistication, formality, and luxury, a black tie may be too intense and formal for most job interview environments. Also, a black tie is most commonly suited for a funeral because black is associated with mourning or the unknown.

Unless the job interview will be exceptionally formal, it would be best to reconsider a black tie and opt for burgundy or dark navy blue. You’ll still achieve the elegance and sophistication you’re looking for but without the association of too much formality.

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Burgundy Ties

Although in the same color family as red, burgundy contains a tinge of blue. Burgundy tones can range from dark wine to a more vivid crimson. Whichever tone of burgundy you choose, a burgundy tie will convey timelessness, maturity, and elegance.

Burgundy offers a more subdued and refined color choice than red for interviews where you want to express a cultivated, confident, polished demeanor. Also, a burgundy tie can be a great alternative to wearing a black tie. You’ll still come across as elegant and refined without expressing the solemnity associated with mourning and grieving.

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Tie Colors to Avoid for Interviews

You may have a selection of eye-catching ties that garner compliments every time you wear them. But if you’re wondering if one of those dazzlers will be appropriate for an interview, it probably means you’re not completely confident about the choice.

Do consider the level of creative casualness or proper formality of the job you’re interviewing for. While a dazzling tie can project excitement or your cutting-edge fashion sense, it may not express the desired level of professionalism you want to convey — that is unless you’re interviewing for a design or creative director position.

For an interview, avoid overly bright colors or flashy patterned ties. Eye-catching ties can be just that — distracting. You don’t want the interviewer to focus on your flashy tie (love your tie, where did you buy it?), but instead focus on you and hear what you have to say.

When deciding on what color tie to wear for interview meetings, best save your ultra-fashionable neckwear for celebrating with family and friends after you land that new job. The Tie Bar offers a variety of ties in appropriate colors for any and all interview settings — from a leadership role in education or finance to the head of graphic design or data engineering.

Get Your Interview Tie at The Tie Bar

Dress for job interview success by choosing a tie color that expresses the professional, confident, capable you. That should be easy now that you’re an expert on the psychology of color!

Whether you want to impart a sense of calmness, professionalism, and trustworthiness; convey your authority, control, and confidence; or express your balance, fairness, and strength, you’ll find the interview tie color that speaks to your personality and abilities at The Tie Bar.

Find the perfect necktie that will clearly express your talents and style by exploring The Tie Bar’s full tie collection. Whether your interview will take place in a corporate boardroom or on a virtual meeting platform, make the very best impression with a Tie Bar tie!

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