Can a Nurse Wear Scrubs to an Interview?

Dressing professionally for a nursing interview is important—what you wear can say a lot about your respect for the role and the organization. But when it comes to scrubs, opinions vary. Are they ever appropriate for an interview? Let’s take a closer look at when it might be okay to wear scrubs—and when it’s better to opt for something else.

Should You Wear Scrubs to a Nursing Interview?

Your interview outfit sends a message about your professionalism and your understanding of workplace expectations. While scrubs are standard on the job, they’re not always the best choice when it comes to interviews.

When Wearing Scrubs to an Interview Is Acceptable

• Hands-On Assessments: If your interview includes a clinical skills test or direct patient interaction, wearing scrubs might be the practical and appropriate choice.
• Matching the Workplace Culture: In some settings—especially clinics or practices where scrubs are the everyday norm—it may be acceptable (or even preferred) to show up in scrubs. Some candidates have found that aligning with the facility’s dress culture can work in their favor.

Nursing Scrubs

When to Avoid Wearing Scrubs to an Interview

• Administrative or Leadership Roles: If you're interviewing for a management or non-clinical position, stick with business attire. These roles usually call for a more polished, professional look.
• Formal Hospital or Private Practice Interviews: Hospitals and private practices with a more traditional environment may expect business professional dress. In these cases, scrubs can come across as too casual.

What to Wear Instead of Scrubs for a Nursing Interview

Business Casual vs. Business Professional for Nurses

So if scrubs are off the table, what should you wear? It depends on the workplace culture—but knowing the difference between business casual and business professional can help you make the right call.

• Business Casual: Think clean, comfortable, and put-together. For women: dress pants, a blouse or a knee-length skirt with a sweater. Closed-toe flats or modest heels work well. For men: slacks with a collared shirt or polo—no tie needed. Loafers or dress shoes are a good choice.
• Business Professional: If you’re unsure of the dress code, business professional is the safest bet—especially for hospital or corporate settings. For women: a tailored pantsuit or a structured dress with a blazer. For men: a matching suit with a long-sleeve shirt and a conservative tie.

Keep accessories minimal and shoes polished. Go with classic colors like navy, gray or black paired with a white or light-colored shirt for a crisp, professional finish. Make sure your hair is neat and your nails are clean and well-groomed—small details like these can make a big difference in your overall look.

When in doubt, it’s better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed—your outfit should show that you’re serious about the role and respectful of the opportunity.

How to Look Professional If You Need to Wear Scrubs

While business attire is usually the go-to for interviews, there are times when scrubs might be expected—or simply make sense. If you’re heading into an interview where scrubs are appropriate, there are still ways to elevate your look and make a great impression.

Go for High-Quality, Well-Fitting Scrubs

Not all scrubs are created equal. Choose a pair that fits well and feels polished—nothing oversized or too worn in. Look for styles made from premium fabrics that offer structure and stretch. Healing Hands offers scrubs that strike the perfect balance between comfort and professionalism, so you’ll look sharp and feel confident.

Opt For Neutral Colors

When wearing scrubs to an interview, solid, neutral tones like navy, grey or black scrubs are your best bet. These shades come across as polished and professional—and they’re less likely to feel too casual.

Incorporate a Scrub Jacket

A well-fitted scrub jacket can instantly elevate your look. Choose one with clean lines and minimal details for a sleek, professional vibe. Styles like the Brooks Utility Scrub Jacket are a great way to add extra coverage while keeping things sharp and stylish.

Keep Grooming Simple and Polished

Neat, styled hair and clean, trimmed nails go a long way toward looking put-together. Keep makeup natural and accessories subtle—just enough to enhance your look without drawing too much attention.

Choose Professional Footwear

Go with closed-toe shoes that are clean, comfortable, and neutral in color. Polished footwear can tie your whole outfit together and show that you’ve thought through every detail.

Dressing for Success in a Nursing Interview

What you wear to an interview helps set the tone and speaks volumes about your professionalism. By thinking through your outfit—whether it’s scrubs or business attire—you’re showing that you take the opportunity seriously and respect the role.

At Healing Hands, we know how important it is to feel confident, comfortable and polished—especially during big moments like interviews. That’s why our women’s scrubs and men’s scrubs are thoughtfully designed to help you look and feel your best every through step of your journey.