Peer Career Consultant Blogs

First impressions matter, especially during your internship! While your company isn’t evaluating you based on your outfit, what you wear is one of the first things people notice. Dressing appropriately isn’t just about appearances but also a sign of respect for your workplace. It can also help you feel confident, allowing you to perform your best and express your personality.

Dress codes

Usually workplace dress codes fall into two categories: business professional and business casual. Business professional is the most formal. Normally suits, blazers, dress shirts, and closed-toe dress shoes. It’s usually expected for important meetings, client visits, and associated with industries like finance. Business casual is a bit more relaxed but still polished. For example, slacks, blouses, button-downs, or neat dresses. It’s the most common dress code for internships and allows you to look professional while feeling comfortable throughout the day.

The first week

The first few days are when you’ll want to dress your most professional. It’s always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed. As you get settled, observe what others in your department or team wear since office dress codes and cultures can vary. Once you get a sense of what’s typical, you can adjust your wardrobe.

Something to keep in mind is to dress for the occasion. You might have an intern event, team dinner, or client visit, and it’s important to represent both yourself and your company well. Lastly, keep comfort in mind since you’ll be spending about eight hours a day in the office. Choose clothes that let you move and work comfortably while staying professional.

Here are some outfits I wore to my summer internship ranging from casual to professional:

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