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What to wear to an interview in Kenya

· 6 min read

An interview is a chance to show you are prepared. What you wear is part of that. A clean, well-fitting outfit lets the panel focus on your answers, and helps you feel confident from the moment you walk in.

This guide covers what to wear to an interview in Kenya by industry, with fit tips for women and men, and how Fit Yangu can get you interview-ready in your exact size.

Start with the organisation

Research the organisation before you choose your outfit. Look at its website, social media and any photos of staff at work. As a rule, dress one step smarter than the people who already work there.

Formal: banking, law, government, NGOs and consulting

These sectors usually expect formal official wear, which is at the heart of the Fit Yangu collection.

For women

  • A trouser or skirt suit in navy, charcoal, black or grey.
  • A plain blouse or shell top in a soft colour.
  • Or a tailored knee-length or midi dress with a blazer.
  • Closed shoes with a low or medium heel.

For men

  • A two-piece suit in navy, charcoal or mid grey.
  • A white or light blue office shirt.
  • A plain or subtly patterned tie.
  • Polished black or brown leather shoes, with a matching belt.

Business casual: corporate offices, marketing, sales and education

Many offices in Nairobi now dress business casual. Aim for polished and comfortable.

For women

  • Tailored trousers or a midi skirt with a blouse.
  • A shift or wrap dress, with a blazer if the day is cool.
  • Clean flats, loafers or low heels.

For men

  • Office trousers or chinos with a pressed shirt.
  • A blazer adds polish and can come off if the room is warm.
  • Leather shoes or smart loafers.

Smart casual: tech, creative and start-ups

Tech companies and creative agencies are often relaxed day to day. Smart casual shows you made an effort while fitting the culture. Fit Yangu's smart-casual pieces are made for exactly this.

For women

  • Well-cut trousers or a skirt with a neat top, or a simple dress.
  • An unstructured blazer or a fine knit.

For men

  • Chinos with an oxford shirt or a smart polo.
  • An unstructured blazer if you want an extra layer.
  • Clean leather trainers or loafers can work here, if the company's own style is relaxed.

Why fit matters most

A modest outfit that fits well looks sharper than an expensive one that pulls or sags. Check these points before the day:

  • Shoulders: jacket shoulder seams sit at the edge of your shoulders.
  • Buttons: jackets and shirts close without pulling across the chest.
  • Sleeves: jacket sleeves end at the wrist bone, with a little shirt cuff showing.
  • Trousers: the waistband sits comfortably without a belt doing all the work, and the hem rests lightly on your shoe.
  • Skirts and dresses: you can sit, stand and walk comfortably, and the length stays where you want it when you sit.

Getting all of this right is what Fit Yangu does. Sizes vary between brands, so we start from your measurements. Our size finder shows the size that fits you for every piece in the shop, with a note on how it fits at the chest, waist and hips. For a suit cut exactly to you, our bespoke atelier makes it to your measurements.

Plan for Nairobi's weather and commute

  • Layers help. Mornings can be cool and afternoons warm. A blazer you can take off is practical.
  • Choose breathable fabrics. Wool blends, cotton and linen blends keep you comfortable in a warm waiting room.
  • Allow for the commute. Carry your blazer while you travel, put it on when you arrive, and keep a small cloth for your shoes.
  • Check for rain. In the rainy seasons, pack an umbrella and choose shoes that cope with wet pavements.

The day before

  1. Try the full outfit on, including shoes.
  2. Press or steam everything.
  3. Check for loose buttons and hems.
  4. Lay out your outfit, documents and a pen.
  5. Plan your route and leave extra time.

If the interview is close, shop early. Fit Yangu offers same-day delivery in Nairobi and courier delivery across Kenya, and in our store you can get measured and try on pieces in your size in minutes.

Get interview-ready with Fit Yangu

Visit the Fit Yangu store in Nairobi to get measured and see interview outfits in your size, or shop online with delivery across Kenya. Our team is happy to help you put a full look together, so you walk into the room prepared.

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