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[litdawg]

But, Litdawg, are you wearing the boots or dress shoes?  Inquiring minds want to know.

I, myself, went out this morning and bought two new pairs of dress slacks for my interviews in the next month since my extremely-expensive-when-I-bought-them pants that went with my suit have 15 years and far too many trips through the dryer to impress.

My summum bonum is comfort, and I confess to being happily clueless about fashion most of the time. An interview (or funeral or wedding) is about the only thing that makes me wonder about fashion norms. However, I'm then forced to consult on fora like these because . . . I truly don't know.

With regards to footwear, I decided to fudge a little. Although I HAVE in the past worn a freshly polished pair of steel toes with my suit, I opted to visit a few stores to see whether any dress boots (non-cowboy) could be had for men. I ended up with a pair of Steve Madden boots that I'm calling bootlings--they extend a little above the ankle and give me the heft I enjoy around my toes while still appearing much like dress shoes when my pant hem falls over laces.

I have a warm feeling inside knowing that this recent shopping spree will preserve me from thinking about such things for the next decade or so. (Note to self: no middle-aged girth growth or this plan is shot!)

[litdawg]

I disagree that Scenario 2 is not correct

Who claimed it wasn't correct?  I said that I cannot relate.  I feel better when I'm comfortable and I can take on the world in my ratty jeans and sweater.  Suit that isn't me, not so much.

I am guessing the style of the coat doesn't matter, and my poufy down coat will be ok, which I will need anywhere my interviews to date are scheduled.

Alternating snow and freezing rain during my visit--thank you, Jos. A. Bank for 60% off with an additional discount at the register: http://www.josbank.com/menswear/shop/Product_11001_10050_101956
<jokey tone>
How can you say your coat won't matter?  Didn't you just say that fashion matters?  You must make sure you have the right coat or it's all over.

[polly_mer]

I ended up with a pair of Steve Madden boots that I'm calling bootlings--they extend a little above the ankle and give me the heft I enjoy around my toes while still appearing much like dress shoes when my pant hem falls over laces.

Good choice.  You also know this means you can wear real socks instead of dress socks and no one can see, right?  That's a tip I picked up from Dilbert and it has been pretty handy.

[litdawg]

I ended up with a pair of Steve Madden boots that I'm calling bootlings--they extend a little above the ankle and give me the heft I enjoy around my toes while still appearing much like dress shoes when my pant hem falls over laces.

Good choice.  You also know this means you can wear real socks instead of dress socks and no one can see, right?  That's a tip I picked up from Dilbert and it has been pretty handy.

Absolutely! Especially with new shoes. . . I'm wearing by Thorlo boot socks for warmth and comfort.

[aysecik]

polly_mer, you are right! Actually, the coat is a longer story than it should be. I looked for a good looking, warm, long coat for years to replace my good-looking, warm, long coat that was already 10 years old. In the meanwhile, I repaired seams getting undone countless times, even had it re-lined twice. Eventually, I admitted it is and looks too old, and I need to give in and admit my dream replacement coat does not exist... Sacrifice form for function, and decide to be warm in a long down coat. I love that it feels like I rolled out of bed together with the comforter. So what if I look like I'm bubble-wrapped and ready to ship. It is FREEZING here. And if I have a thick long coat, I can still wear my pretty skirt and heels under and not be as cold. I just hope I will get to leave it in someone's office during the interview and not lug it all around the place.

[polly_mer]

Eh, I can't claim the moral high ground on coats; my winter coat was Swedish military surplus when I got it 15 years ago.  It is very warm, so despite frayed cuffs and a button that I keep meaning to sew back on, I still wear it everywhere.  I'll have to check the expected temperature for my interview at the end of this week.  I'll wear my nicer coat (British military surplus) if the temperatures are moderate.  If the temperatures are low, then I'm wearing my warmest coat and if I don't get the job just for choosing warmth, then I wouldn't want to work there and I'll start putting in more effort for the next interview in three weeks.