15 Best Outfit Tips for a Successful Interview as a Server

By Shelby Bonner Nov 16, 2023

Being a server at a restaurant is a popular job with the amount of existing places new places popping up, the flexible hours, and the valuable skill sets required. Many restaurants have dress codes for their servers, but there is no one answer on what to wear to an interview for a server position.

The best advice is to research the restaurant or cafe ahead of time, and if possible, even visit the location to see what the workers are wearing. Choose an outfit that closely resembles the uniform there to fit in with the atmosphere.

What to wear to a casual establishment compared to an upscale restaurant may differ. When in doubt, always dress smart and modestly, and make sure to be clean, well-groomed, and on time. It is best to look professional and dressed to impress to make the best first impression you can.

Panaprium is proud to be 100% independent, free of any influence, and not sponsored. We carefully handpick products from brands we trust. Thank you so much for buying something through our link, as we may earn a commission that supports us.

Upscale Restaurant

For an interview at an upscale restaurant, wearing professional, formal clothes is recommended. Choose clothes you would wear to the office, such as a suit, dress, and dress shoes. Upscale restaurants value appearance greatly, and dressing well will show you have similar values. You will also blend in with the clientele better.

Check out these server outfit ideas here.

Casual Restaurant

For a more casual place, such as a cafe, you don’t need to show up in a suit, but you should also avoid showing up in sweats. Find middle ground with a nice pair of jeans, a crisp shirt, and closed-toe shoes.

Find more server outfits here.

Black Clothes

Many servers wear black clothes to blend in and not take away from the ambiance of the restaurant. Black also looks professional and easily hides stains if you spill during your shift. Wearing black to your interview will give your interviewer a good idea of how you will fit into their restaurant.

Black clothes will also help make you look effortlessly eloquent and professional while also showing your knowledge of the restaurant industry, and what is required.

Discover more black outfit ideas here.

Dressy Low Heel Shoes

Dress shoes are a staple for a reason. They can be paired with formal or casual clothes and will blend in while keeping you looking sophisticated and business-ready.

Try out these dress shoes.

Suit Pants

Dress pants are an easy, versatile option for both women and men. They come in a variety of materials and fits so you can choose the right option for your purpose. Choose dark and neutral shades like black, grey, and navy blue so they don’t stand out and blend in with the rest of your outfit.

Find more pants here.

Button-Down Shirt

A button-down shirt is a classic for an interview for a reason. For one, it can easily be paired with most bottoms, including dress pants, jeans, or a skirt. It is also professional looking without being uncomfortable or too rigid and comes in a variety of colors, patterns, and fits.

Find more dress shirts here.

Pencil Skirt

A pencil skirt is a professional piece that you can still move around in and feel comfortable. Make sure your skirt goes to at least your knees so it doesn’t ride up when you sit down. Pair it with a blouse for a more chic look, or a t-shirt for a modern, bold look.

Check out these affordable pencil skirts.

Blazer

A blazer or sports jacket is an easy way to layer your outfit. Wearing it with a casual shirt can help elevate your look, and wearing it with a blouse or dress shirt creates a seamless, professional look sure to impress.

Try out these blazers.

Personal Style

Even though you want to look professional, and conservative, there is still room to add personal touches to your style. Start with pieces and fits you feel comfortable and confident in. Don’t wear a skirt if you ordinarily wear pants and vice versa.

Add touches of color with a tasteful scarf, or small pieces of jewelry or hair clips. You don’t want to distract your interviewer with a bright bold look, but you still want to look and feel like yourself for your big day.

Find more ways to show off your personality here.

Comfortable Clothes

The last thing you want is to be distracted by your clothes while trying to make a great impression at your interview. Wearing comfortable clothes, even semi-formal clothes is possible by wearing the right size, and fit and choosing soft materials that will not make you feel itchy.

Find more comfortable clothes here.

Dark or Black Jeans

For a more casual environment, jeans are a great option for women and men. Choose a dark blue or black pair of jeans for a more professional look. Also make sure your jeans are not so tight where you can’t sit easily, and not so loose where you have to worry about them falling.

Make sure your jeans are hole and stain-free and pair them with a belt for an elevated, classy look.

Save these jeans.

Collared Shirt

A polo shirt is more professional than a T-shirt, but more casual than a dress shirt. It is a great option if you are unsure of the dress code, or if you want to make a strong impression at a more casual place.

Find more collared shirts here.

Pulled Back Hair

Regardless of what restaurant or cafe you are interviewing at, wear your hair away from your face. Your interviewer will be able to see your entire face and be able to focus on what you are saying. You will also show your understanding of food safety and the requirements of being a server.

Keep your hair back with these hair accessories.

Feminine Blouse

A blouse is an easy, versatile option for women. You can easily find one that fits your style and personality while also still being modest and professional-looking. A blouse can be worn on its own or layered under a blazer or sweater for a more dimensional look.

Check out these blouses.

Linen Suit

Depending on the restaurant and position you are applying to, a suit may not stand out as too formal. For a managerial position or a position at an upscale location, a linen suit will make you look smart and ready to work without making you stand out in the environment or overheat.

Try out these suits for men and women.

Was this article helpful to you? Please tell us what you liked or didn't like in the comments below.

About the Author: Shelby Bonner

Shelby Bonner is a freelance graphic designer and writer who is passionate about fashion, and ethical, environmentally friendly fashion. She enjoys finding new brands, and following the latest styles each season.