I'm going for an interviw soon and the company i applyed to said the dress code was "dress down" which i guess is smart casual. i need to know how dressed down can you go? also when the say this, it makes me hesitant to wear a suit to the interview as they may think i look up-tight. i no it is a stupid question, but it is my first interviw and i don't want to look stupid.

Where a suit, at the very least its a sign of respect for whoever is giving you an interview.

Conventional wisdom says you should always aim to be slightly overdressed for an interview. So, how about a suit, but without a tie? Or go for the whole suit and apologise when you arrive (you had a prior appt that with a smarter dress code?)... I really wouldn't worry about it though. The days of recruiters making hiring decisions based on how shiny your shoes are, are long gone!! Good luck...

I generally wear a full suit with a tie and everything....I get to the company, see what others are wearing, if it's smart casual, then when I sit down at the start of the interview I would take off my suit jacket. I then roll up my sleeves a little bit (NEATLY! as in fold it up, not push it up) to try to show that I'm ready to go and ready to get in there and do the work. I don't know if it helps for the interview but at least I feel more comfortable and confident during the interview. (it's more effective during group interviews) Just a thought!

How about khakis???

There is no sure way to nail this ... How you look does usually matter a great deal (we often try to pretend it doesnt)....I always suggest candidates call the receptionist and level with her/him, asking for advice on how best to dress.... even if this is repeated to the interviewer it shows initiative....On the other hand be who you are .... If you are looking for the right fit and how you look doesnt work, then clearly you have met your objective and are able to walk away happy...Good luck!