We’re a few weeks into Spring semester, so our internships are in full swing. I think it’s safe to say that we’re finally starting to feel like part of the team. We're used to rolling out of bed for class, so getting ready for our internships and walking into an office can seem a little bit daunting, and often, we feel like we have nothing to wear. In some industries, casual dress reigns supreme, but alternatively, some industries still demand the respect that only comes along with a nice suit.

My best advice is to take your cues from what everyone around your office is wearing but to be sure to put your own spin on it. When you're dressed like yourself you project confidence, so find a way to make the dress code work for you!

Fashion

Men

When you land a job in fashion, it's assumed that you'll be taking some liberties with the way that you dress. You can afford to add some casual touches if they're considered trendy, but just remember it's important to ALWAYS look polished, first and foremost. You don't have to become label-obsessed to work in fashion, either. Those who are can find the looks for less with ASOS.

Women

We all saw The Devil Wears Prada (right?!) so we know a thing or two about what it takes to work in fashion. We love this Missguided look because it puts an unexpected spin on a very classic look. A single sleeve (as opposed to bare shoulders) is apparently going to be the look this coming season, and the colors are absolutely perfect to carry us into Spring. Like we said, there are certain liberties you're encouraged to take when you work in fashion, and showing a tad more skin than usual is one of them. Careful with that advice though-- make sure it's tasteful and make sure if you're showing a lot of skin uptop, you're covered down below (and vice versa).

Editorial

Men

Editorial doesn't tend to be overly client-facing so those who write for a living tend to play down the business casual look and opt for an off-duty look and jeans. If it's the kind of office where t-shirts are appropriate, go for it, but never forget the old adage "dress for the job you want, not the job you have". If you put that little extra effort into your look, they'll likely think of you as a solid dresser which could equally translate into a solid worker. Something to keep in mind when you're shopping this look at Club Monaco.

Women

As mentioned above, editorial isn't necessarily a job where you'll talk to many clients/people face-to-face. That said, we love the look and feel of this very casual outfit because it has interesting elements and shows some personality (not to mention, it's comfy). Denim is still totally appropriate, and the booties give this look the polish that it needs, unlike a sneaker that would make it more weekend casual or heels that would feel completely off. Pro-tip: When it comes to mixing patterns, they don't have to match they have to go. Does that make sense? Shop things that go at Tobi.

Marketing/PR

Men

Never underestimate the power of a great sweater over a crisp button down-- this is the first rule of marketing. Just kidding, but marketing yourself is actually the first step, so make sure you look put together. Moss Bros are the kings of looking like you know what you're doing, and that's half the battle.

Women

We love this look because it's trendy and cool but it doesn't try too hard. Thank you, ASOS. Formal pieces paired with a graphic tee is the perfect blend of streetwear and workwear. There's a good skin/clothing ratio here as well, which you should always be aware of. Not kidding-- don't be the intern that everyone talks about for wearing something deemed inappropriate. You do not want to be sent home either! How embarrassing.

Finance/Law

Men

Time to invest in your first nice suit (I guess you probably had to wear one for the interview, but now you need more!). We live in NYC so it's always exciting/hilarious to play "Spot the Wall Street interns getting 20 coffees" in their perfectly polished suits with a rainbow of colorful socks poking out from fine Italian leather shoes in line at Starbucks. It's important to dress the role here or you'll be overlooked... Make sure you're taking cues from the salaried employees and don't be the only guy in the office to rock a bow tie (unless you're sure you can pull it off!).

Women

What an exciting time to be alive! Plaid is all the rage, so this is the industry to be in right now (fashion speaking, anyway). Stick to tailored pieces. Stick to darker colors. Show some personality but not too much in your dress; it'll help to pave your way in an industry overrun by men and being taken seriously should start with the first thing they can see-- your outfit. This look is perfect because it pairs unexpected classic pieces that wouldn't be fun or special separately, but when put together, make a look that's worth a second glance. Scoop it up at rag & bone.

Education

Men

I wouldn't go wearing a suit or anything, but an internship in education definitely calls for some nice khakis. Grab them at Dockers.

Women

You'll be around kids so I think it's important to appeal to them (but not too much). This is a job where you'll be on your feet almost the entire time, so make sure you've got the right shoes for the job. You'll cultivate more respect for yourself naturally if you make an effort to dress a little bit more professionally, as you don't want to be mistaken for any of the children! This awesome pleated skirt from ASOS is a great length that says you're dressing the part of adult-- you're an authority figure now!

Politics

Men

You better work! We love this look because it's reliable and that's the impression you're trying to give off. Go high when you're dressing for a life in politics and you'll go far. You need people to trust you, and they'll trust someone who is dressed the part of trustworthy-- it's kind of a mind game. Don't be TOO slick. Don't wear anything that'll make someone ask you "Are you off to Court" but they don't mean as a Supreme Court Justice. We trust T.M. Lewin. If you're in D.C. make sure you have sneakers when it's time to RUN. :)

Women

You can opt for a power suit a la Hilary, but it's not a requirement. There are some real classic elements happening in the look below from Club Monaco (do you see a theme here?) but it's also poking fun at itself and taking some liberties. I think the moral of the story here, is that you can take a trend (like wide legged crop pants) and make them work for your industry. The belted waist and the strappy shoes round this look out and give us "America the Beautiful" meets "American Beauty" drama while still being totally casual-cool and perfect for any sort of political office.