What does casual dress really mean? Also, when going on an interview is it appropriate to “dress down"?

The problem with the word casual is that it does not have just one meaning. Since the early 1990s companies have been liberalizing their dress codes. What started as “dress down Fridays" now encompasses the entire workweek in many offices. To make it more confusing, what applies in one profession or area of the country may not apply in another.

Perhaps the best synonym for "casual" is "appropriate." I suggest using a common sense approach and avoid extremes. In other words, do not dress in the clothes you would wear if you were doing yard work! Neat, clean and presentable will always be in.

On to the second part of your question; when in doubt, dress up -- not down. If possible, go to the building prior to the interview, and observe what people are wearing as they come and go. However, unless you are told otherwise, come in business attire.

-- Posted: May 24, 2000

AMY ROGAT holds a master's degree in counseling, with a specialization in career development. She is a licensed career counselor who was co-owner of a career management firm for 15 years. Rogat has taught college students about career exploration and provided individual coaching to people changing jobs.