A Guide to the Perfect Summer Internship Uniform
A Guide to the Perfect Summer Internship Uniform
By Olivia Blackwell — July 29th, 2025
There’s nothing quite like the thrill of landing a summer internship, until you’re staring at your closet at 7:13 a.m., wondering if linen trousers count as “business casual” or if your ballet flats are too “balletcore.”
With the brutal summer heat and icy office air conditioning, finding the sweet spot between professionalism and personal style during internship season can feel like a tightrope.
However, dressing for a corporate internship doesn’t mean abandoning your fashion sense; it just means learning how to translate it.
The modern workplace is evolving, and with that comes more flexible fashion rules. The phrase “business casual” might still haunt your inbox, but what that looks like depends heavily on the office culture and the city. A marketing firm in Atlanta might be all about breezy midi dresses and chic sneakers, while a law office in Washington, D.C. might expect structured slacks and silk blouses.
When in doubt, start safe with structured pants, polished tops, and neutral tones—and don’t forget to observe. Take cues from your supervisor, but don’t feel pressured to copy and paste. Instead, think of it as building a capsule wardrobe tailored to your office and personality.
The Darted Barrel-Leg Utility Pant by Madewell
Your Summer Internship Uniform Starter Pack
The holy grail of corporate summer dressing lies in pieces that marry style and practicality, such as lightweight trousers. Think linen blends, pleated cotton, or wide-leg silhouettes that feel elevated without suffocating.
Take advantage of elevated basics. Think tanks with a polished blazer, crisp button-ups with a twist—like ruffled cuffs or contrast stitching—and classic crewnecks in neutral tones.
Don’t be afraid of a matching set. They read “put-together” with minimal effort. Try soft tailoring in breathable fabrics like seersucker or poplin. Pair these with functional footwear like loafers, mules, or sleek sneakers that won’t kill your feet on your walk home.
Azure Claire Vest Top by Hyacinth House
To wrap up your starter pack, include a functional bag. Something structured, roomy enough for a laptop, and preferably stain-resistant—because iced coffee accidents happen to the best of us.
Lana Shoulder Bag by Coach
The Weather Dilemma
If Southern summers are one thing, they’re unforgiving, but in many office buildings, it can feel like it’s 65 degrees and raining. That’s why layering should become your best friend. Carry a knit cardigan or a cropped blazer, and opt for fabrics that won’t cling when the heat hits, but still offer practicality while indoors.
Jackie Cardigan by J. Crew
Let Your Style Softly Speak
Internships are your first taste of professional life, but they are also your first chance to express yourself within that world. That doesn’t mean you must fall victim to the corporate trend cycle; it means you don’t have to leave your personal style behind.
Maybe it’s a statement necklace peeking out from under a button-up, or a pop of your favorite color in your Mary Janes. Maybe it’s the way you tuck your shirt, cuff your pants, or layer your jewelry.
In the end, the summer internship uniform is made perfect by your confidence. Remember that you belong in the room. Imposter syndrome can creep in when you're the youngest one at the table, but showing up in something that makes you feel confident helps you carry yourself like you belong there.
It is important to remember that, at the end of the day, how you carry yourself matters more than what you wear—though a crisp outfit can give you that extra edge.
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