A TikToker has gone viral after a job interview outfit nearly cost her the position, igniting an online debate about what’s acceptable to wear when seeking employment.
The creator, @mtyreshiadaily, shared her experience in a TikTok video that now has over 27,000 comments, sparking discussions on social media platforms like TikTok and X.
In the video, Tyreshia recounted how she was dress-coded by a recruiter during her interview for wearing a white blouse, sweater, and black shorts.
The recruiter ultimately rescheduled the interview for another day but not before suggesting she change her outfit and return. Tyreshia, however, declined the offer.
“I just got dress-coded during an interview, and then they decided to reschedule the interview with me for tomorrow,” she explained in the video. “But before they rescheduled, the lady was like, ‘Would you like to come back, like go change and then come back?’ And I was like, ‘No.’”
In the now-viral clip, Tyreshia steps back from the camera to give viewers a full view of her interview attire, including the controversial black shorts.
Social media reactions have been mixed, with some questioning her choice and others offering more understanding perspectives.
Commenters flooded the video, with many expressing disbelief that someone would wear shorts to an interview.
“What job was this for—a camp counselor?” one TikTok user joked, while another asked, “Was it for a lifeguard position?”
Several critics accused Tyreshia of using the incident as clickbait, noting that most people are aware that shorts are typically not considered appropriate interview attire.
Some viewers were even surprised the recruiter offered to reschedule, with one user writing:
“Offering to reschedule was very generous of them.”
On the other hand, some sympathetic voices saw the situation as more of a learning opportunity than an outright fashion blunder.
Job search platform Indeed also offers practical advice on interview attire. Their guidelines suggest researching the company’s dress code and aiming for a more professional look than what might be considered “casual” at the organization.
Matching your outfit to the season and climate is important, but showing personality can still be achieved—typically through colors and accessories rather than breaking dress code norms.
As the debate continues, Tyreshia’s viral moment has brought renewed attention to the importance of dressing for success, especially when it comes to that all-important first impression during a job interview.
