We live in an era of remote work. Zoom calls are common in work settings. This makes our on-camera appearance important than ever.
While pajama bottoms might be comfortable, the right professional attire can boost both your confidence and how others perceive you during virtual meetings.
If you work remotely and often attend Zoom meetings, this article is for you. We will talk about ten clothing items that make you look more professional during calls.
Let’s dive in.
Also Read: Best Colors To Wear For Zoom Interview
1. Structured Blazers
Nothing says “professional” quite like a well-fitted blazer.
Even when you’re working from home, throwing on a blazer immediately elevates your look from casual to business-ready.
Opt for one with defined shoulders that fits comfortably, Remember, you’ll be sitting for extended periods.
For women, both traditional and slightly cropped styles work well on camera. For men, a classic cut in a versatile color makes for an excellent investment piece.
Explore: Foolproof Zoom Interview Outfit Tips
2. Collared Shirts
Collared shirts frame your face nicely on camera and instantly communicate professionalism.
Button-downs, oxford shirts, and polo shirts all work well for video calls. The structure around your neckline creates visual interest and helps define your silhouette in the limited frame of a webcam.
Just ensure they’re wrinkle-free. Cameras tend to emphasize creases and untidiness.
3. Tailored Jumpsuits
For an easy one-and-done professional outfit, consider a well-tailored jumpsuit.
The streamlined silhouette looks put-together on camera, and many styles feature professional necklines like collars or modest V-necks that work well for video meetings.
The bonus? You’re completely dressed for any impromptu full-body shots or quick errands between calls.
Also Read: Hacks To Look Good On Zoom Meetings
4. Knit Sweaters and Cardigans
A fine-knit sweater or cardigan presents a polished yet approachable appearance.
They’re comfortable enough for all-day wear while maintaining a professional aesthetic.
Layering a cardigan over a collared shirt offers versatility and allows you to adjust to changing temperatures throughout your workday.
Avoid overly chunky knits which can appear bulky on camera.
5. Statement Necklaces and Ties
Since Zoom meetings typically only show you from the shoulders up, strategic accessories like statement necklaces or well-chosen ties can make a significant impact.
These items draw attention to your face and add visual interest to otherwise simple outfits.
Just avoid pieces that create noise when you move or extremely reflective items that might cause glare.
Also Read: Signs Your Zoom Interview Went Well
6. Well-Tailored Tops
Fit matters tremendously on camera.
Tops that are tailored to your body type look more professional than oversized or ill-fitting garments.
Look for blouses, shirts, and tops with some structure rather than flimsy or clingy fabrics.
The right tailoring creates clean lines and a more put-together appearance in the limited frame of your webcam.
7. Mock Turtlenecks
Mock turtlenecks offer a sleek, minimalist professional look that works exceptionally well on video calls.
They frame your face elegantly without the bulk of a full turtleneck and pair beautifully under blazers or on their own.
This style works across genders and body types, offering a sophisticated alternative to collared shirts.
Explore: Zoom Interview Etiquettes & Tips
8. Structured Dresses
For those who prefer dresses, structured styles with clean lines photograph particularly well.
Sheath dresses, shirt dresses, and wrap dresses all maintain their shape on camera and project confidence.
Even though only the top portion will be visible, wearing a complete outfit often helps you feel more put-together and professional overall.
9. Lightweight Scarves
A lightweight scarf adds a touch of sophistication and can brighten up basic outfits.
They frame your face effectively on camera and can be an excellent way to incorporate color without overwhelming your appearance.
Choose fabrics that lie flat rather than bulky knits that might look untidy on video.
Also Read: Best Zoom Backgrounds For Interview
The Psychology of Color: Best Colors for Professional Clothing on Zoom
Your color choices significantly impact how you’re perceived during video meetings. Here’s a guide to selecting the most effective colors for your professional Zoom wardrobe:
Navy Blue
The undisputed champion of professional colors, navy communicates authority, trustworthiness, and dependability without the harshness of black. It photographs exceptionally well on most webcams and flatters virtually all skin tones. Navy blazers, dresses, and tops should be staples in your professional Zoom wardrobe.
Burgundy and Deep Reds
These rich, warm hues convey confidence and energy while remaining office-appropriate. Burgundy, maroon, and similar deep red tones add visual interest without overwhelming the screen. They’re particularly effective for accessories like ties, scarves, and blouses when you want to make a subtle statement.
Soft Blues
Light to medium blues project calm competence and approachability. These shades work particularly well for shirts, blouses, and tops as they frame the face nicely without washing out most complexions. Powder blue, cornflower, and chambray all translate beautifully to video and pair well with neutral bottoms.
Emerald and Forest Greens
These jewel tones communicate growth, balance, and prosperity. Deep greens stand out beautifully on camera without being distracting and add a refreshing element to your professional wardrobe. They’re particularly effective in blouses, dresses, and accessories when you want to appear both authoritative and approachable.
Charcoal Gray
Slightly softer than black but every bit as professional, charcoal gray signals sophistication and intelligence. It provides an excellent foundation for your Zoom wardrobe in blazers, dresses, and trousers. Gray also pairs beautifully with virtually any accent color when you want to add personality to your look.
Also Read: Tips On Zoom Interview Makeup & Lighting
What to Avoid
- Bright White: Often appears blown out on camera and can cause exposure issues.
- Neon Colors: These can be distracting and often don’t render accurately on video.
- Busy Patterns: Small patterns like tight pinstripes or tiny checks can create a moiré effect (a distracting visual vibration).
- Black: While classic, solid black can appear overly severe on camera and often loses detail, appearing as a shapeless dark mass.
Final Thoughts
Colors often look different on video than in person. Choose colors that complement rather than blend into your virtual or actual background.
If you have an important presentation, wearing a color associated with authority (like navy or burgundy) can subtly enhance your credibility.
Invest in professional pieces in navy, charcoal, burgundy, and forest green that can mix and match easily.
With these clothing choices and color strategies, not only will you project professionalism but will come across as someone who is extremely confident and diligent in his work.
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