What to wear for your internship: dos and don’ts

Internships are a big deal and you should be very proud to have gotten one. However, many panic about what to wear because they want to make sure they make a good impression; and rightly so. So we’ve put together a little guide to help you with your internship style. 

First ask the question: where are you working/going?

This is the foundation of the internship-outfit-picking process and should be thought about very carefully. This question can actually really help in any situation, whether your outfit is for an interview, a date or a wedding. Doing so can often calm you down and stop you from panicking, while also cooling those pre-internship nerves. 

Know your environment

Interning at a law office is different to interning at a graphic design company, so know your environment and know your audience. On your first day, familiarise yourself with the surroundings and the people you’re working with. Is it a busy place, a relaxed atmosphere or a professional environment? We would say if you’re really stuck for what to wear, follow what the other people in the office are wearing. If they dress casual, you go casual. If they all go for the sharp, smart, dapper look – then follow their lead. 

Do dress appropriately

Simply put, from the moment you start your internship, you are learning and also being judged at the same time. That means how you work as well as how you present yourself. So at your internship dress appropriately. That means no booty shorts, no hoodies and no jogging bottoms…at least not in the first week.

Do dress practically 

As much as we love the idea of wearing heels on the first day of an internship at Vogue for example, it’s not really practical. This will only end in blisters and you ruining a good pair of heels. Ladies hear our words: don’t wear heels, unless you can commit to them, run in them and keep them on 9am to 5pm. 

Always make an effort

At the end of the day, an internship is an opportunity, so always look and show that you care. You never know where it could lead.  

Some internship essentials

Satchel Bag: definitely an old school girl investment for the ages. (Recommendation: Cambridge Satchel, Urban outfitters: £125.) 

Brogues: they’re comfortable, flat and smart. Plus they always look really expensive, even when they’re not. 

White shirt: smart, casual; this piece of clothing can do it all. (Recommendation: white shirt, ASOS: £18.)

Blazer: the automatic smart wear. 

Phone: a girl’s got to communicate, right? 

So with this guide all interns should live by; go out into the big wide world, enjoy your internship experience and make us proud!

Flavie Belanco