What to wear for an internship
You’re almost to the finish line! You submitted a great cover letter and resume. You even got a call back for an interview. However, you aren’t in the clear just yet. Now you need to appear presentable for the interview. As students, we don’t have hundreds to spend on a new work wardrobe. Investing in a few key pieces, though, can make all the difference. Here are some key items you’ll need for a professional, put together look.
1) High heels.
Invest in an appropriate pair of high heels. You don‘t need 6 inch silver sparkling stilettos to impress your interviewer. In fact, you may want to stray away from anything too flashy. Stores like Aldo, Cathy Jean or Payless Shoes Source are great places to find high heels of all colors and styles.
2) Dress pants or a long pencil skirt.
Both of these styles are acceptable as they are professional, no-nonsense pieces. Khaki, black, gray or brown are all recommended. Department stores like Macy’s and Nordstrom often have sales and offer affordable prices.
3) Blazer
Whether you want to invest in an expensive blazer or not, it’s vital you invest in one! This piece is a ‘play safe’ option for interview attire. Now, the color may vary depending on the type of job. For example, an interviewer for a fashion internship may not mind a bold colored blazer, while an internship at a bank may prefer something more conservative. Either way, you can’t go wrong with a black blazer. Students should take a peek at Macy’s or H&M if they are on a budget.
4) A white button down top
Of course, you’re free to wear whatever color you like, but white is a very ‘play-it-safe’ color. A button down makes anyone look instantly polished and gives off an air of professionalism. It goes with any other color, too, so you won’t have to stress and color coordinating your outfit. Good store options include Macy’s, Nordstrom’s or H&M.
5) Make-up
It may be tempting to pile on the make-up, but stay far away from that. Leave your bright red lipstick at home and opt for a more natural, toned down look. Choose neutral lipstick, as opposed to lips gloss as it can give more of a youthful look. Mascara, a think line of eyeliner and neutral eye shadow (tan, brown, and cream) will make you like well-groomed without overdoing it. Lastly, go for a bit of blush instead of bronzer. Blush will give your skin a healthier glow. You can find all of these items at make-up stores such as bareMinerals or Sephora.
6) Hair
As women, we tend to play with our hair when we get nervous. This is something you want to avoid at all costs during your interview. You want to appear confident and strong. Fidgeting with your hair makes you look nervous. If you have long hair, I strongly recommend putting it up in a ponytail. This gets rid of any type of temptation. Skip the flashy accessories. Again, your goal is to look as natural as possible.
What’s the best part about all of the items I’ve shared with you? All of these items are not only available at the mentioned stores, but each of these stores are merely a walk away from campus at the Stonestown mall! So get up, get your wallet and start investing in a wardrobe that will help further your career!