Dressing for occasions in Ghana
What to wear to a job interview in Accra
By sneakersInn team · Updated
For most job interviews in Accra, wear a well-fitted navy or charcoal suit, a white or light blue shirt, a plain tie and polished black or dark brown leather shoes. For creative, tech and startup roles, a blazer, shirt and tailored trousers without a tie is usually enough. You can always remove a tie; you can't add one you didn't bring.
| Industry | What to wear |
|---|---|
| Banking, law, government, corporate | Navy or charcoal suit, white shirt, tie, black oxfords |
| NGOs, development, education | Suit without tie, or blazer and trousers |
| Tech, startups, media | Blazer or knit, shirt, chinos, leather shoes or clean leather sneakers |
| Hospitality, retail | Smart trousers, shirt, polished shoes; match the brand's style |
| Unsure | Suit and tie |
Why does an interview outfit matter?
The interviewer forms an impression in the first moments, before you've said much. A clean, fitted outfit shows you prepared and take the role seriously, so the conversation can focus on you. See the benefits of dressing well.
What is the safest suit colour?
Navy or charcoal. Both look serious and suit every skin tone. See navy vs charcoal.
How should everything fit?
Shoulders on your shoulders, sleeves showing a little cuff, trousers touching your shoes. A cheaper suit that fits beats an expensive one that doesn't. See how a suit should fit.
Interview day checklist
- Shirt ironed, collar clean.
- Shoes polished, laces neat.
- Belt matching your shoes.
- Nails clean and trimmed; grooming neat.
- Watch simple; no loud jewellery.
- Bag or folder for your CV, not a stuffed pocket.
- Handkerchief for the heat.
- Travel plan that gets you there early and cool.
How do I avoid arriving sweaty?
Carry your jacket rather than wearing it on the way, wear a thin vest under your shirt, travel in air conditioning if you can, and arrive 15 minutes early to cool down. Choose lightweight wool or a wool and linen blend. See suit fabrics explained.
What about online interviews?
Dress from the waist up as you would in person: shirt, tie or blazer as the role requires. Plain colours look better on camera than fine stripes or checks.
Questions
Can I wear traditional wear to an interview?
On Fridays at organisations that observe Friday wear, a smart print shirt may be fine. For most interviews, a suit is safer.
Can I wear sneakers?
Only for very casual roles, and only clean leather ones. See sneakers for the office.