10 Pieces Every Intern needs in their Closet by lapetitefashionista featuring flat shoes

Internships are not only the foundation to a career, but the foundation to a work wardrobe. They present the opportunity to start building a closet full of essential pieces to make a stylish statement at your job. Dress codes vary from workplace to workplace, but there are some universal items that everyone should own to present themselves in a professional manner.

1. Black Blazer: Blazers take a business casual outfit and instantly give it a more polished appearance. Try pairing them with a colorful blouse underneath for a more fashion forward look.
2. Wrap Dress:Fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg introduced the infamous wrap dress in the 1970s and stylish work outfits have never been the same. Look for styles with small prints that aren’t too busy and jersey fabrics for a look that won’t wrinkle.
3. Printed Blouse: Look for dressy button downs or blouses with cute embellishments to pair with pants or skirts. This gives you the opportunity to let your personal style shine.
4. Short Heels:I love my strappy platforms as much as the next girl, but save them for post-internship happy hours, and stick to a more conservative pair in heights 2 inches or less.
5. Gold or Silver Watch:Watches can not only be stylish, but functional as well! You’ll never be late for meetings (hopefully), with one on your wrist I’m partial to trendy oversized “boyfriend” styles with a large face.
6. Wrinkle Resistant Blouse: Even if you have a more casual dress code, owning several oxford shirt button downs is essential for meetings with executives and more professional settings. Look for a style with a wrinkle-resistant finish so you won’t have to do any ironing, because face it, you’ll be busy enough!
7. Pencil Skirt: Look for styles that aren’t too snug or short. Black or gray are always practical colors to choose. Also consider buying it in a fabric and color that matches your blazer for the option to wear them together as a suit.
8. Cardigan: Sweaters are a great way to add a pop of color to your outfit and keep you from freezing when the air conditioning is on full blast in the office. Add a dose of trendiness to your look with ruffles, lace, print, or unique buttons.
9. Ballet Flats: Flats are perfect for running around the office and a look that is as comfortable as it is cute. Although patterned and brightly colors can be tempting, a more neutral style like black or silver will match with more.
10. Tights: I’m never willing to abandon my dresses and skirts, even when it’s freezing outside! A thick pair of tights in black or gray (or with a slight weave or pattern in them) is perfect for staying warm and keeping your look more conservative.

Curious where to start your search for stylish professional clothing? I recommend checking out Ann Taylor LOFT, J. Crew, and Talbots for trendy staples. If you’re on a budget look at department stores like Macy’s, Dillards and even discount stores like Marshalls and T.J. Maxx.  Try to break out of the typical college student shopping mode and prioritize quality over price.

These ten items will form the perfect foundation to any intern wardrobe, regardless of workplace. The best way to add to your work wardrobe is to observe what your stylish coworkers are wearing. After a couple of weeks on the job, they’ll probably be taking cues from you!