With my own summer internship beginning in less than a week, I've finally started purchasing last minute basics to fill in the cracks of my wardrobe. The fact that I have to pack within the next 24 hours was also a major factor in the process. Luckily, this isn't my first rodeo so to speak. After scoring a internship in the fashion closet at Seventeen Magazine last spring, I've learned the do's and the even more don'ts of working in the fashion world. Although packing will be significantly easier - I remember last year, mid-December, when I hadn't a clue what to pack for an internship that lasted not one, but two season. Plus, winter wasn't easy to pack for. The two winter coats that I reluctantly borrowed from my own mother took up one suitcase alone. As a 19-year-old Floridian, I additionally was not outfitted for the weather that is legendary of New York City.
In the end, it didn't turn out quite so bad. I'd like to forget a couple outfits, but I picked up some stuff from the various SoHo shops to make me feel at least a little more fashionable. Seventeen's freebie pile was also my stomping ground. As much as I wish I could have known what I do know (so cliché, right?) when packing for an internship in the fashion internship, I'll do my best to point out some helpful tips.
Let me tell you ladies (and even gentlemen) that basics are going to be your best friends. This is especially true if you're interning in a new city (like me) where mixing and matching is going to be a top priority before you actually stumble across the local Laundromat.
The key to looking like a flawless fashionista, even on the job, is using the style knowledge you already have and building your ensemble from there. For instance, make a printed summer dress look more put together with a solid cardigan. Or dress up a shirt and pencil skirt with statement necklace. A well-placed watch or bracelet can also add character. However, beware not to overload. Too many bracelets/obnoxious earrings (take that description as it is) tend to make people think you are sloppy. And sloppy people do not end up getting hired. I personally like to splurge more on outfit pieces that accentuate your voice. Mine at the moment have been brightly colored Zara blazers and polished Tory Burch flats. Other companies, such as Gap and H&M, are wonderful for detail pieces too.
The final accessory, your purse, is pretty much a personal judgment call. While I obviously advise against anything flimsy or could be mistaken for an evening clutch, I do firmly believe that it should at least be able to hold an umbrella (trust me), sunglasses, lip gloss, your wallet and, the holy grail of transportation for an intern, your Metrocard pass (which is never to be lost ever right? Right.) Some other items you might want to consider: travel-sized deodorant (who wants to "that guy" on the Subway ride home? Not me, thank you. ), anti-bacterial hand gels, IPod (to help avoid creatures eyes on the Subway ride home), tissues (allergies anyone?), mints (I'm refraining from gum because I abhor the idea of anyone who dares chewing like a cow in a public place, especially where you work), your phone charger (if you know the day is going to be longer than usual. Which can frequently happen.), a snack (think power bar) and band aids. Oh yes, band aids. You'll thank me for saving your feet after scurrying around the city at all hours of the day.
Alright, shoes. Flats are fabulous. Being 5 feet 8 inches I should know. If you wear heels, go for the more conservative numbers, not the ones you were seen dancing on a bar the other night. I think it's safe to say that flip-flops are a no-go. Seriously, no flip-flops. Got that covered? Good. Moving on.
My final tip that could make all the difference: Dress pretty neutral the first day and notice what others are wearing. Usually from this you can gauge how much you can get away with, but remember to memorize the office dress policies as well. If anything, dress professionally (you're representing the company your interning with), with clean clothes and a smile. If all goes well, maybe you'll soon be referred to as the most stylish intern in the office.
Photo courtesy of Zara.com.
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