Nice clothes may not be the most important thing to bring to an interview but inappropriate attire can put you behind other candidates. I once had an interview terminated after three minutes simply because I wasn't wearing a suit and tie. This may be an extreme example but dressing appropriately is important.
Research what your potential colleagues and supervisor wear. BUT don't dress down. If the person conducting the interviews is wearing jeans and a t-shirt doesn't mean you should be wearing similar clothing. Never wear jeans or a t-shirt to a job interview. Trainers are out. Better to err on the conservative and formal than to turn up too casual.
Men should wear slacks, leather shoes and a button down shirt with tie at a minimum and only in casual situations. If you are unsure, a dark grey or navy business suit is always safe. You should wear black or dark brown shoes that match your outfit. Socks should be black. The belt should be dark brown or black to match your shoes.
Women should wear conservative business attire. A dark coloured suit is always safe. Alternatively you can wear a knee or full length skirt and a coordinating jacket. A subtle or moderate amount of makeup is appropriate. Your shoes should be polished and have low or moderate heels. Do not wear heavy makeup, excessive jewelery or a low cut top.
For both women and men, a clean, neat and tidy appearance is essential. Polish your shoes. Iron everything that can be ironed. Check your outfit well ahead of time for stains.
Should you wear business casual? Maybe. At some institutions it is what is expected and you may feel overdressed in formal business clothes. I would always try and find out ahead of time rather than turn up in clothes that are too casual.
A travel toothbrush is £2 well spent. I recommend keeping a Colgate Wisp handy. Wisp is a small 3 1/2 inch long single-use toothbrush that does not require water or rinsing. They are not widely sold in the UK but you can buy a pack on Amazon or eBay.
References
University of Kent (n.d.) Interview Style Guide. Retrieved 2 December 2014 from http://www.kent.ac.uk/careers/ivdress.htm
Colgate Palmolive (2014) What is Wisp. Retrieved 3 December 2014 from http://www.colgatewisp.com/wisp/HomePage#/what-is-wisp/
Pomona College (n.d.) Graduate Application Process. Retrieved 3 December 2014 from http://www.molecular-biology.pomona.edu/gradschool/application/app_process_interview.html
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