Top 10 Intern Fashion Must-Haves

While many co-eds spent their summers interning at fabulous offices, some of us will be starting internships in the fall. Take a moment to revamp your closet with College Lifestyles’ Top 10 Intern Fashion Must-Haves.

1) Ballet flats. As an intern, you will be running around performing various errands. So comfortable shoes are an absolute MUST. Pick out a pair of basic ballet flats in a neutral color, preferably black. If you do choose to wear heels (See #2), keep fold-up flats in your bag. Try Dr. Scholl’s For Her Fast Flats, $12.99 at Walgreens.

2) Comfortable Pumps. As useful as flats are, nothing gives you the confidence you need to ace a big day at your internship like a killer pair of heels. Choose black pumps, which keep you looking professional and hot enough to go straight to class. Just make sure you can walk in them. Hint: If you can’t stand in them for more than 30 minutes straight, you can’t wear them for a full day of interning. To help prevent blisters, rub a dry bar of soap on your feet before putting on the shoes. And stash some Band-aids in your purse.

3) Hair ties. Long, flowing hair may look cute at a party, but it gets in the way when you’re trying to work. Go for simple updos in the office. If you must have your hair down, at least keep a couple of ponytail holders stashed in your bag. We like Goody Ouchless Hair Elastics, which are snag-free and come in shades that match any  hair color.

4) Blazer. A well-fitting blazer classes up any occasion. Throw it on over a dress for a menswear-inspired look, over a sparkly top and jeans for a night out, or on your way to class to make you feel that the day has arrived. At your internship, a blazer is an always-appropriate jacket. Pair it with a same-colored pencil skirt and a white top, and voila! You’ve got yourself a suit.

5) Simple earrings. For some reason, an updo always looks better with earrings. So complete your look with a pair of simple hoops or studs. Try Forever 21′s Essential Earring Set – only $5.80!

6) Pashmina. The pashmina is the more casual and more versatile cousin of the blazer. Use it as a scarf, a wrap, or a blanket when the office is cold. A pashmina is primarily an accessory, so pick one in a fun color and let it brighten the worst days of your internship.

7) Notebook. You need a small notebook solely for internship-related information. Keep it with you at all times, and use it to keep track of important dates, names, events, etc. Choose one that is as is stylish as it is functional.  A Moleskine is classic, or check out more options here.

Watch. Your friends may not mind when you check your phone every 5 seconds, but your bosses certainly will. Even if you’re just checking the time. Turn your phone off (not on vibrate, accidents can happen) and get a watch. Simple is best, and will add a touch of class to any look, professional or otherwise. We like this Timex Ladies Black Leather Strap White Dial Watch, only $25 at Walmart.

9) Black tights. Bare legs are a no-no at most offices, but pantyhose is just so blah. Buy a pair of black tights that are appropriate for both the office and for class. Think a shirtdress for work, and pair it with a mini and boots for going out. Check out L’eggs Casual Opaque in 03100, available at drugstores.

10) Large Bag. When you intern in the fall, you need a bag that can take you from class to internship and back again. Don’t be afraid to try some color,  and go with a large tote bag such as the ever-popular Longchamp Le Pliage Tote Bag, $145.

With these items, you’re ready to tackle your new internship with style.

Next week: what are the beauty rules you live by? Let us know in the comments with your first name, university, and year to have your answer be featured in a CL article!

Sasha Graffagna is a soon-to-be junior Journalism and Comparative Literature major at New York University. A proud sister of Theta Phi Beta, she talks fast, travels a lot, and is obsessed with sugar.