Now that spring is in full swing, we can see summer is just around the corner. If you’re an incoming senior like me, that might look a little different this year. You heard me, it isn’t just summer approaching…it’s intern season.
Whoever said that the “look good to feel good” mantra was irrelevant was completely wrong. Like many other women exploring the corporate sector this summer, I’m eager to make the most of my experience. While obviously my job is to work, who says fashion can’t play a part? Not only is dressing well a way to make a good impression on your employers, but it also elevates your own confidence! While work can be stressful and hours add up, feeling like your best self is a way to enhance your experience. Corporate fashion doesn’t have to be bland or boring, and it also doesn’t have to drain your bank account. So here I give to you a guide to building your ideal summer internship wardrobe, with items that are realistic for corporate standards and budgeting and can be part of your summer capsule wardrobe for years to come!
Brands
Quince
Quince is a one-stop-shop for high quality womenswear at realistic prices. They’re known for their motto “sustainably made and affordably priced,” which reflects the company’s ethical practices. A deeper dive into their “About Us” section shows the lengths they go to uphold these practices; Quince prides itself on upholding sustainable practices while maintaining an ethical reputation. Additionally, they have a wide selection of clothing and accessories. Their Workwear Collection features a slew of items, from bags to trousers to shoes. These pieces are perfect for interns who are beginning to build their corporate wardrobe and want to invest in quality pieces without dropping a bag on corporate wear. As an owner of a few Quince items myself, I can attest that it’s worth the hype!
Loft
My mom recently recommended Loft to me when I brought up my need for workwear. It didn’t take much digging to see why! From basics to blouses to dresses, they have a large selection of all kinds of pieces all at reasonable prices. Their sale section is also well-stocked, and they often have discounts store-wide. Another thing I like about Loft is their stylistic choices, especially the patterns and color palette of their current spread. Currently, they’re very in-tune with late spring — perfect if you’re looking to add pieces that are suited for warm weather and summery-vibes. Loft is also a great place to purchase pieces that you can incorporate into other non-workwear looks!
OGL MOve
I’ve seen this viral Effortless Boatneck top from the brand OGL Move all over my Instagram feed. It’s marketed as a flattering, full-length top that can be worn anywhere from work to a night out. Of course I was intrigued and had to check it out myself, and turns out the whole brand is full of good finds. They have an array of pieces, all super suitable for the workplace. Scrolling through the website, I found so many tops and dresses that I genuinely loved. Nothing felt too old or out of reach — there is truly something for everyone. I also noticed the brand’s neutral color palette, which allows many of their pieces to be easily mixed and matched with each other. This is perfect for building a capsule wardrobe! Not to mention, OGL Move also abides by sustainable methods while maintaining pleasant prices, much like Quince!
Banana Republic and J. Crew Factory stores
Banana Republic and J. Crew are well-known for being reputable, high-quality stores that women can go to seeking professional wear. When I started my clothing search, these were the first two shops I checked out, but was deterred, like many, by their hefty price tags. The secret I’ve found is the Factory stores. These online outlets share similar designs to their host stores, but at a fraction of the cost. Banana Republic Factory recently had a massive spring sale, where I got four items for around $100, compared to paying the same (or more) for only one thing at their main retailer. They have so many staple office pieces — I recently purchased a short-sleeve sweater and white maxi skirt that I can’t wait to pair together in the office! They’re even having a 50% sale on a bunch of styles right now, so check it out while you can!
3 Key pieces to consider
1. Flats
Flats — from ballet to pointed toe to sling back — have taken over spring fashion, and I don’t see it slowing down anytime soon. They’re the perfect shoe to take from day to night, or casual to formal, while still prioritizing comfortable and walkability. Your options are endless! My personal favorite ballet flat has a longer, slightly more squared toe. I’m a size 10.5 and have notoriously wider feet, so this style has been a game changer! A square toe is also a way to spice things up stylistically!
My current flat of choice: Alie Ballet Flat by Sam Edelman
2. Midi Skirt
In my opinion, midi skirts are THE day to night summer piece. They’re such a flattering, mature item that you can wear for so many occasions. You have so many styles to choose from, like slip, linen, or pleated, and can dress them with all sorts of tops. Going out to girls’ dinner post-work? Wear a satin skirt and pair it with some kitten heels, all you need to do is change your top if you please! I’d also highly recommend checking out consignment or vintage stores to find some more unique options!
My current midi skirt of choice: Solid Satin Midi Skirt by Renee C
3. Fitted Button-Down
A classic white button down is a staple in any corporate wardrobe, even if it’s considered a little basic. If you want to combat this, I’d highly recommend a fitted button down shirt instead. Rather than solely tucking in your top like you usually would, these fitted pieces can cinch at the waist or tie in the back. This creates an ultra-flattering, yet still professionally-appropriate compromise. Go crazy and get both short and long-sleeve options to suit this summer weather! I’m personally obsessed with this look, and have seen a ton of women wearing them both in and out of the workplace.
My current fitted button-downs of choice: Fitted Poplin Shirt by Pull n Bear and Blueprint Poplin Shirt by Artizia
Well ladies, there you have it! Hopefully you’re feeling inspired by all the possibilities for your intern wardrobe this summer. If you’re still looking for some more ideas, I suggest taking to Pinterest or TikTok where there are no shortage of ideas. I also love Danielle Pheloung’s LTK where she has a whole section dedicated to workwear.
Happy shopping friends! Get ready to take on your internship this summer…in style of course.