For many professional roles, wearing a jacket or blazer to a virtual meeting or interview is both expected and appropriate. The right jacket conveys professionalism, attention to detail, and confidence. However, what works in person often doesn’t read the same on camera which can sabotage your confidence AND your first impression with your audience.

Choosing the Right Jacket for Virtual Meetings

Let's face it. In a virtual meeting or video call you're typically seated and seen from chest up – meaning that gorgeous full outfit you put together? Your audience only sees about 10-15% of it. Your neckline becomes the frame for your face, which is the focal point of your customer's screen.

5 Jackets I put to the Zoom Test

I had a closet full of jackets leading up to 2020—pieces I loved and felt great wearing in person. But the first time I caught myself on camera during a virtual meeting? My heart sank. Instead of looking polished and professional in my jackets, I looked like I was drowning and channeling 1980! My favorite jackets were betraying me on screen, and I could feel my confidence draining with every video call.

That's when I realized I needed to give all my jackets the Zoom Test. Here's how they performed and what I learned:

#1. The Linebacker Look

I wore this beautiful blue cashmere jacket to countless in-person meetings and interviews where I felt powerful and put-together. But on camera? The bulk and boxy cut transformed me into something I barely recognized. Instead of projecting the confidence I felt inside, I looked like I was wearing shoulder pads ready to tackle the competition—and not in a good way. Every time I saw myself in that gallery view, I felt myself shrinking despite wearing a jacket that should have made me feel larger than life.

DOES IT ZOOM?

Only if you're trying out for the NFL.

Traditional jacket styles that work well in person often appear bulky and unflattering on camera. Look for lighter fabrics or more fitted styles.

#2. The Black Jacket Trap

Traditional colors like black and dark navy are often recommended for interviews as they’re considered power colors. However, on camera, black can make you look like a shapeless blob unless you have some contrasting details.

DOES IT ZOOM?

Not so much.

The ruffles on this jacket help a little bit, but there's no separation from the torso and the arms, thus creating the blob effect.

#3. Black with Contrast

This black jacket has some contrasting ivory details, as well as an ivory tank underneath, which breaks up some of that black and keeps it from looking so shapeless. It’s also a little lighter fabric so it' looks less less bulky that some of the heavier jackets.

DOES IT ZOOM?

Yes! This black actually works on camera.

The contrasting details and tailored fit earns this a spot in my virtual wardrobe.

#4. The Fitted Sweater Jacket

This sweater jacket from Missook is a little more fitted than most, so it holds it's shape well. The bright blue material has an interesting texture that you can see on camera as well.

DOES IT ZOOM?

Thankfully, yes!

This style is comfortable and sophisticated. Plus it adds a pop of color that supports a confident, attentive first impression on camera.

Tip: Test bright colors with your specific camera and lighting setup before important meetings to ensure they don’t distract or steal the spotlight from you!