I wear something from the upper end of the range of what I would wear to work every day. Usually, this is because I am taking time off for the interview, either coming directly from my existing job, or going directly there after the interview.
I do not comment on attire during the interview, not my own, nor anyone else's. If I am asked about it, I say "This is what I wear to work. Does your company have a dress code?" Regardless of the answer, this is a warning signal, and my salary expectation just jumped. The interviewer permanently lost its potential discount for work environment.
I may even keep my existing employee ID on its neck band and tucked inside my shirt pocket, to reinforce the signal that I already have a job (and you're keeping me from it).
When I interview while unemployed, I'm far more likely to wear the suit. Or at least a tie. My hoop-jumping reserves not being depleted by an existing employer, I am far more willing to acquiesce to expectations not relevant to the job description. It's very much like the difference in dressing up for a date night versus going out with your spouse.
I do not comment on attire during the interview, not my own, nor anyone else's. If I am asked about it, I say "This is what I wear to work. Does your company have a dress code?" Regardless of the answer, this is a warning signal, and my salary expectation just jumped. The interviewer permanently lost its potential discount for work environment.
I may even keep my existing employee ID on its neck band and tucked inside my shirt pocket, to reinforce the signal that I already have a job (and you're keeping me from it).
When I interview while unemployed, I'm far more likely to wear the suit. Or at least a tie. My hoop-jumping reserves not being depleted by an existing employer, I am far more willing to acquiesce to expectations not relevant to the job description. It's very much like the difference in dressing up for a date night versus going out with your spouse.