The job market is tough today, which makes the interview process much more competitive than it was a year or two ago. Many times, a large part of the decision to hire (or not to hire) an applicant is made based on first impressions – appearance being numero uno. When you’re given the head-to-toe assessment (and you will be), those shoes you decided to wear may say a lot to your prospective employer.

The type of dress code really depends on the industry and type of position you are interviewing for, but basically speaking, dressing conservatively is always the safest bet. Do your homework – find out the dress code and then dress accordingly. When in doubt conservative is the best route, overdressing is better than underdressing.

Neutral colors are best, nothing wild, or revealing. We won’t go into too much detail here since we’re about the shoes. Common sense should rule. If a suit is in order, then well-tailored in blues or greys would be best. Skirts should not be too short and stockings should be worn.

Jewelry should be kept to a minimum – that means no nose rings, or jingle jangle bangles – remember, conservative. Hair and nails should be neat and clean – no wild colors on either. Stay away from overpowering colognes or perfumes, as you want to knock ‘em out with your skills, not your smell.

As for shoes – this is not the time for flip-flops, clogs, strappy sandals, open toes or backless shoes. Keep it simple, with a professional-looking style that is closed all the way around. Heels should not be too high, nor should they be flats. A moderate heel that you are comfortable wearing is your best option. Finally, a solid-colored briefcase or handbag will complete the professional look.

Prom Night – One of the most important nights in a high school girl's life. The last thing you want to do is to dance the night away in agonizing pain! Consider comfort first when selecting the right style – your feet will thank you at the end of the night.

You want to look fantastic – of course. The right shoes can be as important as the dress, especially if it is short. Full-length dresses can get away with more, but those short numbers need just the right shoe.

Prom shoes can be made to match the color of your dress (dye-ables) – important for both long and short dresses. There are shoe styles that can draw attention away from large or wide feet and draw attention to your legs, if that is what you want.

There are many styles from which to choose, because there are many different kinds of feet, toes and legs in the world! What might look great on your best girlfriend may not be right for you, so keep that in mind.

Go with a style that is complimenting and comfortable. If you are comfortable in high heels, you will probably be fine – if you are not, then wearing them on one special night could end up in disaster. There are so many flattering styles available – high heel, low heel, flats, open toe, strappy sandals, even ballet style flats with stay-put ribbons that wrap up your calf.

Pick a style that best matches your dress, if glitzy and shimmering – go with the same look for your feet. For long dresses, consider shoes that match the color of your dress – if it is an unusual color, you might want to get dye-able shoes and have them colored to match, like this – Dyeables Misty – Women's Refined/Dress .