Dressing right for your internship can boost your confidence, help you fit in, and show professionalism. Whether you're entering a corporate office or a creative start-up, use these workplace wardrobe rules to make a positive impression and avoid common mistakes when choose office clothes.
Why Dressing Professionally Matters During Your Internship.
Your appearance at work sends a message about how seriously you take your role. Dressing professionally shows respect for the company, your colleagues, and the responsibilities you've been given. When in doubt, it's always better to be slightly overdressed than too casual.
Internship Dress Code: Key Rules to Follow.
Do Wear Closed-Toe Shoes.
In most office environments, sandals are not considered professional. Stick with dress shoes or flats. Keep your footwear clean, comfortable, and closed-toe.
Don’t Wear Sportswear.
Jerseys, baseball caps, hoodies, and athletic sneakers are great for weekends but inappropriate in most office settings. Aim for a neat, polished look instead.
Do Rock Business Casual.
While business casual may seem a bit plain, it’s versatile and safe for most workplaces. Think slacks or khakis paired with a collared shirt or blouse. Personal flair is great, but stay within professional bounds.
Don’t Show Too Much Skin.
Especially during warmer months, avoid clothing that's too revealing. Shorts, tank tops, and short skirts may be comfortable, but they can come across as unprofessional.
Do Dress for the Job You Want.
Even in a laid-back office, dressing one step above the norm demonstrates ambition and professionalism. Your wardrobe should reflect that you take your role seriously.
Don’t Overdo Casual Fridays.
If your company observes Casual Fridays, maintain a level of professionalism. If you have meetings scheduled, it’s always safer to dress up rather than down.
Do Keep Clothes Clean and Wrinkle-Free.
A crisp shirt or blouse can still look sloppy if it’s wrinkled or stained. Make sure everything you wear is clean, pressed, and fits properly.
Don’t Go Overboard during Holidays.
Holiday spirit is great, but keep it subtle. A red sweater or seasonal accessory is fine, but skip the blinking earrings or novelty ties.
Do Pay Attention to What Managers Wear.
Use your supervisors and office managers as a style reference. If they lean more formal, follow their lead. It shows you’re aligned with company culture.
Don’t Wear Flashy or Distracting Items.
Avoid anything that pulls attention away from your work. That includes loud patterns, glitter, flashy jewelry, and excessive makeup.
Do Consult the Employee Handbook.
If you're unsure about what's acceptable, your company’s employee handbook should be your first stop. Review it before your first day to make sure you're dressed to impress from day one.
Tips for Navigating Company Culture
Every office is different. Some industries like tech or design may be more casual, while law and finance tend to be more formal. Observe what others are wearing and match the tone. When in doubt, lean on classic business casual and adjust over time.
What you wear during your internship plays a big role in how others perceive you. While trends come and go, professionalism never goes out of style. Stick to clean, conservative choices and make adjustments based on your specific office culture.
