Why are sandals a no-no for a job interview?

[LaCerbiatta]

After some research have now established this. But why?? Are toes offensive? I'm not talking about flipflops, just something like these for example.

I'm quite tempted to breaking the rule for my interview tomorrow.... or will it cost me the job?

They would be fine.
No flipflops or Crocs though obv.

would never - shoes fab, but better for night out - toes = informal or night out - fine when you've got the job - it's just one of those 'rules' - if you are that fantastic i doubt it would matter, but i would notice!!

Maybe it's just me but I think they are perfectly acceptable, as long as your feet are in v good condition, you don't wear bright nailpolish on your toes, it's a warm day and you are otherwise dressed v smartly. They certainly shouldn't cost you the job if you are the best person.
Good luck anyway!

1. inappropriate display of flesh. I know toes aren't the same as cleavage but you wouldn't wear (eg) a strappy vest under your suit jacket, would you?

2. lack of tights. If you're wearing a skirt for a formal interview that means tights IMO, and tights and open toes are not compatible.

3. parity with men. Unfair in 2007 I know, but you want to look as smart as a man in a suit, tie and polished shoes. Bare toes just aren't as smart as closed-toe shoes.

Put it this way, why risk it?

Wouldn't risk it. Some people find feet really off-putting

suspect they mean sandally sandals of the stroll along the beach variety...rather than open-toe shoes like these.
As long as you have decent feet (no manky buniony bits of flaking off nail polish!)

tuga- nope, sorry. These look like shoes for a night out
Closed shoes at interview only in my book I'm afraid
Hope you get the job
Good luck

did you see that thing about female volleyball players wearing fliflops (bejewewled variety) to the whitehouse - there was a national outcry!

What's the job though?

So luckylady, what would you think about someone with a classical discrete suit, no jewellery, simple make-up, very plain top and some sandals like the ones I linked? What image do you think I'll be giving?

only caveat would be yes, not bare legs for interview, so I would be assuming these with smart trouser suit or similar.

Nobody like toes. Don't do it.

Ok, what about sandals that don't look like they're for a night out, classical ones, like these?

Why are you insisting on sandals when mn is cautioning against?

I don't think they're any better I'm afraid - still looks like you're wearing shoes that belong to another outfit.

If you want to make a statement, wear a statement necklace or bangle, or a scarf, or earrings, or carry (eg) a coloured bag.
Back to the battle of the sexes, think of a man - dark suit, light shirt, bright tie. Not dark suit, light shirt, eye-catching shoes...

What's the job? What's your suit like?

Job is scientific administrator for academic institute and I'm wearing a trouser suit.

So it's because of toes on display, rather than shoes for a night out....

MrsB: was thinking about a strappy vest though.... If ajcket is buttoned up and only a triangle of the top is on show surely it's ok.... I think I've been on academia too long, am obviously clueless

Ok, ok, no support...

My suit is gorgeous!! Cost me an arm and a leg from jigsaw but it is soooo worth it! lovely material and fits really well. Unfortunately they didn't have black in my size so went for navy but I think black looked too much like a sexy tuxedo anyway...

(also if the interview's tomorrow, the forecast is that it's going to be windy and raining, and you'll get wet toes).

In my defence though I don't think there will be a dress code at all, if I do get the job. The careers centre advisor I spoke toa ctually said trouser and a top would be ok. But I followed mn advice and spent £240 on the suit!

Don't risk it if you are concerned, you should be focusing on the interview not whether your shoes are ok.
Personally I think they are absolutely fine in the context of an interview in an academic institute, ie not a city firm or similar with a strict dress code, but most important thing is to feel comfortable and confident and you won't if you are worried people are looking at your feet!