Told to Wear "Casual" Clothes to an Interview Forum

[the fledgling]

Hello TLS (it's been a while).

I have an interview tomorrow with a member of a major music company's legal department. We'll be meeting at my law school and he made a point of telling me that this was an "informal meeting" and I should "dress casually."

My question is what does this mean?

Casual like put-together-fashionable casual (tailored jeans, silk shirt, and heels)? Or business-casual (skirt, silk shirt, heels)? Given the industry (music) and my email conversations so far, I'm leaning towards the former. Your thoughts are much appreciated

[charlesjd]

Business casual is usually the same thing as formal minus the tie. Jeans are a no no. I was told business casual for an interview, but decided to go formal. When I got there everyone else was formal too. It never hurts to look your best. It is up to you though, as career office.

[Scurredsitless1]

Without a doubt, I would go conservative business casual. You will feel like a moron if you notice you're underdressed. There is absolutely nothing wrong with being a little over dressed.

[the fledgling]

I'm in NY. The vibe I get is that's it not business casual and the person I'm meeting with may be the current intern... That combined with the industry is making me think that I should go trendier, but I see everyone's point so far. I've been overthinking this.

[Oblomov]

Business casual is usually the same thing as formal minus the tie. Jeans are a no no. I was told business casual for an interview, but decided to go formal. When I got there everyone else was formal too. It never hurts to look your best. It is up to you though, as career office.

Formal means black tie.

[Pearalegal]

For what its worth, I had an interview in New York after undergrad with a major edit studio...I was told the same thing in regards to dress and wore very dark jeans, low heels, and a dressy but simple cardigan with my hair pulled half back. I fit completely in in the office and the woman interviewing me actually said, "thank god you didn't wear a suit like some of the kids who walk in there. We're not a bank, for gods sake."

I got the job, too, in case that helps as well.

[the fledgling]

For what its worth, I had an interview in New York after undergrad with a major edit studio...I was told the same thing in regards to dress and wore very dark jeans, low heels, and a dressy but simple cardigan with my hair pulled half back. I fit completely in in the office and the woman interviewing me actually said, "thank god you didn't wear a suit like some of the kids who walk in there. We're not a bank, for gods sake."

I got the job, too, in case that helps as well.

Having worked in the media industry in NY for a couple of years before LS, this is precisely what I'm worried about - especially since I won't be going to the office - I'm just meeting a member of the legal department at my school.

I could go with a skirt and silk shirt, black tights and heels/booties.... I have to look through my closet.