A.k.a. Outfits that Say “Please Hire Me After This” without Trying Too Hard
If you are like myself and my friends you have most likely wasted way too much time wondering what in the world you are supposed to wear to your internship. There are articles about internship outfits from people like Her Campus, but there is more than one type of internship. Depending on what kind of internship you have, there will be a different “uniform”. That means there will always be plenty of opportunities to allow your style to shine through! So here are some examples of outfits to wear for whatever kind of internship you have.
The Office Setting
I have to admit, my worst nightmare is a life of formal business wear. I honestly hate the idea of wearing a plain suit every day. Unfortunately, there may be times where it is unavoidable and there are industries that still require it. On the other hand, business casual is actually a pretty entertaining way to feel like a professional. At least, for a standard 15 seconds before tripping through the front door of the office packed with professionals all waiting for you to go on a coffee run or do the 6-hour spreadsheet project they would rather quit than do themselves.
There’s just something so timeless about a perfect plaid skirt. I love them for any occasion but especially when heading into a professional setting this outfit has your back. I kept the shoes low because you never know how much running around you’ll actually end up doing. This look is super easy and monochromatic so you could throw in a fun pair of pumps or some chunky loafers to shake things up. I also love the fact that the shirt is both a turtle neck and short sleeve, perfect for cold-weather layering and a breezy day.
This outfit is a bit more playful but will definitely be a winner in a stylish office. The stripes are a bolder look but the colors are still a balanced look so there is no worry about being too bold for work. If you read my Spring 2020 Trends post, you know how I feel about these pants. They are comfy, cute, and on trend. What more can you ask for? The shoes are a pop of color to the bottom half of the outfit. Plus, I got them ages ago so they are perfectly worn in.
Out In the Field
Maybe it’s student teaching or running around with a photographer, the point is this outfit needs to hold up to the scrutiny of the boss. Plus, last you the day when you find yourself in a snapshot of the wild ride of a career you thought would be a good idea. These internships can be a lot to deal with so the best thing to do is stick to the classics. The pieces you broke in ages ago because a blister is the last thing you need.
From the moment I put this dress on, I felt like I was fulfilling my Ms. Honey dreams. It’s a light cotton that is perfect for a stroll through a meadow in the spring. The cardigan gives it enough warmth to brave the gusts of wind that send your hair flying behind you. The print is the perfect marriage between floral and polka dot so there is no doubt that this will work during the week and weekend. The shoes are also a lot of fun with a larger polka dot this time and the hint of the mint seen in the stems on the dress.
I just love this fun mustard-esque yellow color and the crochet pattern on this blouse is just the right amount of texture and personality for this outfit. I was a bit nervous about wearing this color out but people seem to love this shirt. The elastic gives the shirt just a bit of a peplum but not enough that it feels like 2014 again. (Remember those days? I went deep into the peplum trend back then.) Overall, this outfit would not only win in the style department, but it is also perfect for moving around and keeping it young.
The Remote Internship
I accidentally I landed myself in one of these positions when I was doing my first internship. While there were times where I was kinda dying not wanting to keep working on another spreadsheet, it was a great experiment in self discipline. I did get to hangout in my comfy clothes two days a week. I have considered making myself a girl scout style patch claiming to be a master in google sheets because I spent so much time on it! At first this may not seem like the most fulfilling option but trust me, you can get a lot out of this experience.
Do you remember those flare Aztec print leggings people used to get? I loved those and these are like the more mature version of the two. They still have the great flare and the comfort of leggings but in a more mature print. This outfit is perfect for when you head over to the library to do some work or sitting around in a cool local coffee shop. (Let’s face it, that is the goal right?) You can feel cool and casual while on the clock in this outfit.
I told you I already did a remote internship. I spent most of that time wearing this outfit. More often than not, internship days were spent in my bedroom, if not my actual bed, working in some wonderfully warm sweatpants and enjoying the comfort. It may not seem like the most glamorous option but the matching set is pretty cute. Great for some casual selfies when the school WiFi is “out” and there are plenty of chances throughout the week to get all dolled up. It is all about the balance. When you’re hunched over your laptop all day working on a task there is nothing wrong with being cozy while you do it.
Remember, as scary as it is appearances are a big influence on people’s opinions of others. It is important to consider the work environment and try to observe your co-workers. If you notice most of the people in the office are walking around in heels, you should probably grab a pair. If no one is walking around in heels it may be wise to the stilettos at home. The more you look like one of the team the easier it will be for your supervisor to see you as part of it. That being said, always be yourself and dress in a way that makes you feel most confident.
xoxo,
Emelie
