The Good Intern
New Year, New Goals
The First Day
Speaking
Posted by Michelle Pence - - 4 comments

You got the interview.
You got the internship.
You got the business-ey wardrobe staples.
You got through the first couple weeks without walking out....or crying (good for you!).

How do you make sure you don't lose your personality in the process?

Besides making yourself memorable to your boss/coworkers, having a unique office style is important to feeling comfortable in your new environment. With that said, making your day-to-day outfit office appropriate, but also trendy and fashionable is way easier than it seems... PROMISE! :)

I have written out 3 no-fail ways to add some spice to those pencil skirts and collared shirts that can help any guy/girl look snazzy but still be taken seriously this coming fall.

1. COLOR
The easiest rut to get into when piecing together outfits for work is sticking simply with neutrals...you know, gray, black, navy, white...those colors. Of course, everyone will look great in these because they mix and match well...but who wants to blend in? The point of your internship is to impress and to continually work hard, but more importantly, you need to leave an impression! Adding colors and prints are the absolute easiest way to do this. Now, please note, this must, must, must be done in moderation and only with your clothing (not your hair or makeup). Ladies, we definitely have more options than our gender opposites however, guys, you definitely have ways that can make you stand out a little bit. English Laundry offers some shirts that have interesting details that make your look different than anybody else, such as creative button arrangements or contrasting cuffs. If you want something a little simpler, add some color with a thin pinstripe on a neutral colored shirt like this one from Ralph Lauren. Ladies, like I said your options are different and more expansive. The most simple way to jazz up your everyday pencil skirt or slacks is to add a colored ruffle shirt on top or a patterned skirt on bottom (remember, colors/patterns should be on either top or bottom for the office...never both!).




2. LAYER!
Once the temperatures start to drop, another simple way to update your office wardrobe is to simply throw on a layer...or two! Whether it is a cardigan, sweater, jacket, scarf, etc. the important thing is to stray away from the norm and maybe try a different fabric or color choice. Men, you have a lot more options than you realize here. Whether you're simply doubling up with a vest or blazer,or going a little further and rockin' the cardigan (Kanye's staple), your personal style will definitely show through, showing your attention to detail and that you value how you present yourself. Now for us women, it's not about the addition of a layer to make you stand out, but doing it in a modern and fresh way. Trying a new texture, different cut or an interesting detail will make your office cover-up interesting to those in the office. Although pricey, this option from Rebecca Taylor gives a great example.




3. ACCESSORIZE!
Alright boys, I know what you're thinking and don't fret, I'm not going to tell you to start wearing jewelry...
Let me start by saying that it's apparent with all of us that technology is the new age. Your accessories can be anything from on your body to in your hand. Cell phones are becoming widely used in the workplace as Blackberrys, iPhones, Droids, etc. start to take over the e-mail world. The first thing I recommend if you DO use your phone in the workplace, consider spending the money to get a trendy or patterned cell phone case. [NOTE: I am not condoning using your cell phone while working, only if for work purposes and approved by your boss...no facebook for the good intern, ok ;) ] Guys, you also could invest in a patterned tie, trendy watch, or new cuff links to spruce up an everyday outfit that may be a little more basic than you would like. Female friends, we have a lot more options and they are also more readily available. The obvious choices are statement necklaces, chic headbands (THESE ARE $1.50!!!) or waist-cinching belts that are currently big in the market. No matter what your choices, guys and gals, a little extra zing will definitely help get you noticed and all of these choices will fit the office well, however, make sure to do all of this in moderation :)


With these tips, I'm sure you all will have the confidence to walk through the front doors next time you work with confidence and a smile...and, if you're a "typical intern," coffees for everyone in the office ;)


-Style On!
Ashli Pollard
Blog Writer for College Fashionista
Missouri State University-Fashion Merchandising, Emphasis in Promotion

4 Responses so far.

  1. Unknown says:

    Hmm I agree with all of these points except with the idea that color can't come from makeup or hair! A pop of red lipstick is proffesional, unexpected and memorable. Of course I might just be a little bit biased because I have pink hair, which makes me extremely memorable to every employer I have had! Granted, I work in the fashion industry, so this is much more acceptable.

  2. I think it depends on what industry you're working in. Obviously, someone interning in the fashion industry is going to have a lot more room to be creative with their style than someone in a more corporate atmosphere. Ashli gave some great tips for the average office which is what I was looking for. And, I agree that red lipstick is becoming more acceptable if you balance it with other details of your look!

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