You’ve prepped your behavioral answers, drilled coding questions, and researched the team, but now you’re asking yourself a deceptively simple question: What should I wear to an Amazon interview?
In the tech industry, especially at companies like Amazon, dress codes are rarely formal, but that doesn’t mean your appearance doesn’t matter. Your choice of attire communicates readiness, self-awareness, and a level of cultural alignment.
Let’s learn exactly what to wear to an Amazon interview, whether you’re interviewing virtually or in person. We’ll also break down role-specific considerations, virtual etiquette, and how to balance authenticity with professionalism.
Does Amazon have a dress code for interviews?
No, Amazon does not enforce a formal dress code for interviews. You won’t find a suit-and-tie culture at Amazon’s offices. In fact, one of Amazon’s Leadership Principles—“Are Right, A Lot”—implies practicality over formality. Most employees, including hiring managers and engineers, dress casually in their day-to-day work.
That said, interview attire still matters. While you don’t need to overdress, your appearance should reflect:
- Respect for the opportunity
- Awareness of the company’s culture
- Confidence and preparedness
In other words, don’t wear a three-piece suit, but don’t show up in a hoodie either. Aim for clean, polished, and purposefully casual.
General principles of Amazon interview dresscode
Whether virtual or onsite, follow these core principles when choosing your Amazon interview outfit:
- Smart casual is the safe standard
Smart casual is your most reliable choice for an Amazon interview. It’s professional enough to show you’re serious but relaxed enough to reflect Amazon’s practical, fast-moving work culture. Think elevated everyday wear that shows you’ve put thought into your presentation.
For men:
- A collared shirt, button-down, or smart polo
- An optional lightweight sweater or blazer
- Chinos, dress slacks, or dark jeans (no rips or fades)
- Clean leather sneakers, loafers, or casual dress shoes
For women:
- A blouse, a knit top, or a smart tunic
- A cardigan, blazer, or clean-lined jacket
- Tailored pants, dark denim, or an appropriate-length skirt
- Simple flats, low heels, or comfortable loafers
Avoid anything overly formal (like business suits) unless you’re interviewing for a senior executive role. Conversely, stay away from clothing that reads as too casual (like shorts, leggings, or sandals).
- Be neat, clean, and intentional
A polished appearance isn’t about fashion—it’s about attention to detail. Make sure your clothes are:
- Washed and wrinkle-free
- Well-fitting (not too tight or baggy)
- Free from pet hair, lint, or stains
Grooming matters too. You don’t need a professional makeover, but clean, styled hair and trimmed nails help project confidence and care.
- Avoid flashy or distracting styles
Amazon interviewers want to focus on what you’re saying, not what you’re wearing. Loud patterns, distracting accessories, or strong fragrances can break focus and detract from your message. Stick to neutral colors (navy, grey, black, soft tones) or simple combinations.
If you’d like to express personality, do it subtly, like a textured fabric, a watch, or a favorite pair of shoes. Aim for thoughtful, not theatrical.
- Dress for your role and audience
Context matters. A UX designer interviewing with a creative team may be a bit more expressive than a finance candidate. Research the team, and when in doubt, ask your recruiter what the interview environment will be like.
Always remember: the goal isn’t to impress with style—it’s to remove distractions and help your professionalism and confidence shine through.
- Comfort is part of professionalism
You’ll be doing a lot of talking and thinking. If you’re physically uncomfortable, it can affect your body language, posture, and focus. Choose clothing you can sit in for hours, walk between sessions in, and feel good wearing.
Avoid brand-new shoes, tight collars, or layers that may get too warm. Comfort doesn’t mean casual—it means choosing functional clothing that supports your presence.
Role-specific considerations for Amazon interview dresscode
Different roles at Amazon and different industries in general carry slightly different expectations. Here’s how to tailor your outfit for the position you’re targeting.
Software engineers, SDEs, and technical roles
Amazon’s engineering culture is famously casual. Most engineers wear t-shirts and jeans to the office. For interviews, step it up slightly without going overboard.
Recommended:
- Solid-color button-down or sweater
- Well-fitted jeans or chinos
- Minimalist sneakers or casual shoes
Skip:
- Graphic tees, hoodies, or shorts
- Formal suits
Product managers and program managers
As a PM or TPM, you’ll work across engineering, design, and business teams. Your interview outfit should reflect cross-functional polish.
Recommended:
- Collared shirt or structured blouse
- Optional blazer
- Tailored pants or a smart skirt
- Loafers, flats, or subtle heels
Skip:
- Ultra-casual denim or flip-flops
- Overly formal business attire
UX designers, researchers, and creatives
Amazon’s creative professionals often have more flexibility in expressing their style. The key is balancing creativity with maturity.
Recommended:
- Monochrome or minimalist statement pieces
- Dark denim or clean lines
- A pop of personality (scarf, accessory)
Skip:
- Overly flashy or themed outfits
- Anything that reads as “costume” over “professional”
Leadership and executive roles
If you’re interviewing for a senior role (L7+), raise the bar slightly. You don’t need a formal suit, but aim for a more elevated version of smart casual.
Recommended:
- Blazer or structured jacket
- Crisp shirt or blouse
- Trousers or a tailored dress
The goal is confidence and composure, not corporate formality.
What to wear to a virtual Amazon interview
Since the pandemic, many Amazon interviews take place over Zoom or Chime. Even if you’re not physically present, visual presence still counts.
Tips for virtual attire:
- Dress from head to toe: You may need to stand up unexpectedly.
- Choose colors that contrast with your background: Avoid blending into your environment.
- Avoid noisy jewelry or clothing: Audio clarity matters.
- Grooming still counts: Hair, facial grooming, and lighting affect first impressions.
Bonus: Check your video feed before the interview. How do you appear on screen? Does your outfit reflect intention?
Common mistakes to avoid in Amazon interviews (dresscode edition)
- Overdressing
Wearing a suit or formal dress can feel out of place and may create unnecessary distance between you and the interviewer.
- Underdressing
Showing up in gym wear, loungewear, or visibly unkempt clothes can signal disinterest or lack of preparation.
- Wearing branded apparel
Avoid wearing obvious logos from other tech companies (especially competitors). It can be distracting or misinterpreted.
- Trying too hard
Being authentic matters. If your outfit feels like a costume, it will affect your comfort and confidence. Aim for a version of your style that respects the occasion.
How your outfit affects your mindset
Your appearance affects not just how others see you but also how you feel. Dressing with confidence and intentionality primes you for tackling the Amazon interview questions.
In behavioral rounds where you’re telling stories about ownership and bias for action, or in technical rounds where you’re explaining your code aloud, you want every edge in your corner—including the subtle edge of feeling prepared.
Final thoughts
Choosing what to wear to an Amazon interview shouldn’t be stressful, but it should be deliberate. Your outfit should reflect:
- Your respect for the process
- Your understanding of Amazon’s culture
- Your confidence in the value you bring
Don’t overthink the details, but don’t ignore them either. Focus on dressing in a way that supports your message, enhances your comfort, and helps you show up as your best self.
In the end, Amazon won’t hire you for your outfit, but the right outfit helps you deliver the performance that gets you hired.
