We've interviewed hundreds of teens at Foam Fighters over the last eight years, and here's the truth: nobody expects a 14-year-old to show up in a suit. What we do expect is that they look like they put 10 minutes of thought into the meeting.
The rule: one step above what you'd wear to school.
If they normally wear a hoodie and sweatpants to school, dark jeans and a plain t-shirt is a step up. If they already dress decently for school, a collared shirt or a nice sweater is the move. No need for a tie. No need for dress shoes. Just clean, intentional, fits properly.
What works (and why)
- Dark jeans or chinos — no rips, no stains, fits at the waist
- A plain t-shirt, polo, or simple button-up — solid colors beat busy graphics
- Clean shoes — sneakers are fine if they're not falling apart
- Hair out of the eyes — we need to see your face when you answer a question
- Phone on silent, in a pocket, not in the hand
What doesn't work
- Anything you'd wear to a sleepover — pajama pants, slides, oversized hoodies with the hood up
- Band tees or graphic tops with slogans — even if you think they're funny, the hiring manager might not
- Strong cologne or body spray — a coffee shop is not the place
- A backpack if you can help it — carry a single folder if you need to
The 10-second test
Before your teen walks out the door, have them stand in front of a full-length mirror and ask: would I let this person hand me food? That's it. That's the whole test. If the answer is yes, they're dressed fine.
Clothes don't get anyone hired. But the wrong clothes can get them cut before they open their mouth. We cover this in detail during the Starter Pack — along with a 15-minute mirror drill that teens do with their parents the night before the interview.