Need help dressing for internships and just professional life in general.

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some detailed suggestions for dressing appropriately for internships and professional life, especially if you're transitioning from a blue-collar background:

Suits

• Colors: Navy, dark grey-charcoal, and light grey.
• Design: Plain or subtle patterns like herringbone.
• Fit: Modern, slim, aesthetic fit. Ensure it fits well by getting it tailored.
• Brands:
  • Affordable: Express, Zara, H&M.
  • Mid-range: J. Crew, Anne Klein, Tahari.
  • Higher-end: Theory, Hugo Boss, Reiss.

Shirts

• Quantity: Start with at least 5 shirts.
• Colors: White, blue, and some light colors like pale blue, light pink, red, lavender.
• Types: Button-downs, shells, and some colored short-sleeved blouses.
• Brands:
  • Affordable: Express, Everlane, Banana Republic.
  • Department stores: Nordstrom, Bloomingdales, Macy's, Lord & Taylor.

Pants

• Fit: Modern, slim fit.
• Colors: Stick to neutral colors like black, navy, and grey.
• Brands:
  • Affordable: H&M, Zara, Express.
  • Mid-range: J. Crew, Anne Klein.

Shoes

• Types:
  • Heels: 2-3 inch pumps, black or beige.
  • Flats: Tory Burch, Calvin Klein, Anne Klein.
• Brands:
  • Affordable: Calvin Klein, Anne Klein, Aldo.
  • Higher-end: Prada, Jimmy Choo (for classic looks, but these are high-end).

Jackets/Blazers

• Types: Single-breasted, notch lapels, flap pockets.
• Colors: Neutral colors like black, navy, and grey.
• Brands:
  • Affordable: H&M, Zara, Express.
  • Mid-range: J. Crew, Anne Klein, Tahari.

Additional Tips

• Dresses: Knee-length, solid-colored, non-cleavage dresses are good. Brands like Vince Camuto, Nine West, Sole Society, Michael Kors are recommended.
• Versatility: Tops and skirts/pants allow for more mixing and matching.
• Accessories: Conservative watch, non-flashy bags (e.g., Longchamp).
• Layering: Keep a blazer and a couple of cardigans/wraps at your desk for versatility.

Budget Wardrobe

• Suits: Express and Zara offer suits in the $100-200 range.
• Shirts and Pants: 2 white, 2 blue shirts, and 4 pairs of pants should be sufficient.
• Shoes: Black dress shoes with laces from brands like Aldo are affordable and look great.

By following these guidelines, you can build a professional wardrobe that is both appropriate for internships and everyday wear, while also being mindful of your budget.

Sources: girls internship attire, S&T Summer Intern Clothing Guide, A minimal wardrobe that works for interns/first years, Need Help- Budget Wardrobe for Summer Analyst Internship!!!, Female intern clothes