Fashion
What I Wish I Knew: Summer Associate Attire
This post may contain affiliate links and Corporette® may earn commissions for purchases made through links in this post. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Let’s start a new feature where readers who are a bit more senior in their careers can offer the advice you wish you’d gotten, but didn’t. (Or, what you would tell people if you could do so anonymously!) What are your best tips on what to wear as a summer associate (and what to avoid)?
In the past, we’ve had a lot of discussions about what to wear as a summer associate, including discussions on what not to wear as a summer associate or intern (or, at least, what to question whether is correct for your office), which skirts are too short, when to show personality, how to anticipate wardrobe malfunctions if you’re curvy or busty, and (in our first viral post!), why it might be a bad idea to carry a $9,000+ handbag if you’re a summer intern.
{related: guide for summer associates}
What I Wish I knew About: What to Wear as a Summer Associate
For my $.02, I would give law firm interns and summer associates this kind of advice about BigLaw dress codes and more:
- The summer program is an extended interview — if you dress on the more formal side, that’s OK!
- That said, don’t worry too much about whether your clothes are designer; your superiors are more looking at whether or not you can pick up on unofficial dress codes and general office culture. Effort matters the most here, but…
- Avoid wardrobe malfunctions at all costs. Bring an extra outfit to work so you can change if something goes wrong. If you can’t bend over in the skirt or dress, it is too short for work. Examples from my own time in BigLaw:
- I once realized after getting to work that my dress was way, way too low cut. (I stuffed a scarf around the V-neck to raise the neckline up a bit.)
- I once had a last minute Fancy Lunch with the VIP partner — and although I had a spare suit in the office, the blouse I had didn’t work with the bra I was wearing. Huge thanks to the friend who literally gave me the shirt off her back…
- I definitely had skirts with unfortunate slits — this was one of the reasons I always kept an office shawl or pashmina at the office so I could cover my lap with it!
- I’ve also seen women wear wrap dresses that really, really needed a slip underneath (this one works), have gaping blouses (that’s a whole other discussion), and one poor friend who literally split her pants on the way to work. (She went home to change, if I recall, and brought a spare outfit to the office when she came back in that day!)
- (It happens to all of us, though — we even had a guest post from a newsroom lawyer for Forbes magazine about some of her own somewhat comical malfunctions…)
- Harsh but true advice no one else will give you: your bra should not be showing. At all. Straps too. Also, it should fit — no one likes the quad boob look, but it’s one of those things that will ruin a work look.
- Wear shoes you can walk in. It doesn’t matter if they’re stylish or frumpy, high or low — you should be able to walk in them for at least a few blocks. Yes, you can change shoes at work but keep some acceptable, comfortable flats on the off chance people want to walk to lunch. (But no one wants to see the tottering baby giraffe even if you’re just walking down the hallway.)
- Your general attire matters if you’re just walking around the office — but if you are in any way representing the firm, such as meeting a client, shadowing someone at court, or part of the team meeting opposing counsel to finalize the deal, depose a witness, or otherwise negotiating — then that really really matters. Throw on a safe outfit. A blazer won’t hurt; a suit might not either.
Law Firm Summer Internship Outfits
There are a few classic outfit formulas that work for a business casual environment — here are the ones that come to mind immediately:
- Monotone — You most often see this with black, although many bloggers are now doing beige, but it can be a really powerful look with something like gray or, if you’re daring, red. Example: gray short sleeve sweater + gray trousers + silver necklace.
- “Column of color” — it’s always a classic way to look polished even if you’re doing it with a jean jacket as your third piece. Example: black tee + black trousers + blazer + flats.
- “Shades of a color” — here your third piece is a cardigan, jacket, or other shirt that is a shade lighter or darker than your base shirt color. Example: light blue T-shirt + dark blue cardigan + trousers.
- “Top top bottom” — I’ve got to come up with a better name for this one, ha. But: here your top two pieces match exactly, and your bottom is a totally different color. Light blue cardigan + matching shell + black pants. Another example: light blue blouse + light blue blazer + gray pants.
How to Dress If Your Internship is Partially Remote
We’ve talked about what to wear for video interviews and how to look your best on Zoom in general — I would encourage you to think of adding structure to the top half of your outfit. A crisp collar or a blazer works well!
Why You Should Trust Corporette®
At Corporette®, we’ve been covering professional women’s workwear since 2008, and have written hundreds of posts about comfortable office clothing and shoes, business casual wardrobes, and reader-favorite brands for wardrobe essentials. (We just did a big update to our guide to the best women’s suits!)
Our community is one of the best parts of Corporette® — you’ll see a lot of professional women at all career levels, discussing which clothes work for their offices and their lifestyle.
Other Resources for Summer Work Clothes
Looking for specific suggestions about what to wear to work in the summer? We’ve done roundups for lightweight summer work pants, opaque white T-shirts, lightweight blazers, work dresses with pockets, and more. We’ve also rounded up products to help keep you cool on your commute. (You may also want to check out our roundup of the easiest office up-dos!)
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This post may contain affiliate links and Corporette® may earn commissions for purchases made through links in this post. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
I’ve been pretty happy with my slim (and cheap!) RFID wallet/card case — but this card case from Tusk is mighty tempting.
I love the contrasting colors — in the pictured wallet, it’s green on the outside, lavender/light blue on the inside, and then has more colorful details behind the plastic card sleeve).
So fun, and it seems really functional, as well as being easy to find in any bag. The card case comes in 6 colors for $108 at Nordstrom. The brand has a lot of similar offerings to look through.
Sales of note for 5/8:
- Nordstrom – Savings event – up to 25% off! Good deals on Veronica Beard, Vince, Reiss (esp. coats), and Boss, as well as Wit & Wisdom and NYDJ
- Ann Taylor – Mother’s Day Event: 40% off your purchase. Readers love this popover blouse, and their suiting is also in the sale.
- Boden – 15% off new styles with code
- Express – $39+ summer styles + 25% off everything else
- J.Crew – Up to 50% off swim, dresses, and more
- J.Crew Factory – Up to 60% off everything, and extra 50% off clearance
- Lands’ End – 50% off sitewide — lots of ponte dresses come down under $25, and this packable raincoat in gingham is too cute
- Lo & Sons – Mother’s Day Sale: Up to 40% off — reader favorites include this laptop tote, this backpack, and this crossbody
- Loft – 50% off your purchase + free shipping, plus 2 for $28 tanks and tees
- MAC – Enjoy 30% off lip products and receive a 4-piece Mother’s Day gift with $90
- M.M.LaFleur – Try code CORPORETTE15 for 15% off.
- Ruti – Take $55 off your purchase with code 55ONUS
- Sephora – Free same-day delivery for Mother’s Day with code
- Talbots – 50% off wear-now styles (5/8 only)
- The Outnet – Extra 30% off select styles, including Veronica Beard, Victoria Beckham, and Marni.
- TOCCIN – Use code CORPORETTE15 for 15% off!
- Vivrelle – Looking to own less stuff but still try trends? Use code CORPORETTE for a free month, and borrow high-end designer clothes and bags!
This post may contain affiliate links and Corporette® may earn commissions for purchases made through links in this post. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Here’s a fun little question for today: what beauty product makes the most difference for you — and do you wear it often?
I ask it like that because mascara makes a big difference for me, but my sensitive eyes honestly hate wearing mascara — so it’s an occasional thing for me. I was just watching an interview with Your Rich BFF and she mentioned that manicures are irrelevant to her (same, girl) but that she will definitely find time in her budget and schedule for her lashes.
So, setting aside mascara (or lashes!), I would say that these are my top 5 (not counting skin products like tretinoin and sunscreen!)
- Eyebrows – the older I get the more I need the eyebrows to frame my face. Some women go for prominent eyeglasses; my current daily glasses are pretty thin metallic blue frames so the eyebrows are essential. (I almost exclusively wear blue eyeglasses these days… but I feel like I may be getting into little red eyeglasses territory also.) Annoyingly I’m still trying to find the best product for me at the moment — my beloved EcoBrow is just a shade too dark, and the cooler taupes are a shade too light. I finally broke down and bought a gray/brunette pencil and I like the color but not this exact formulation. (If you have suggestions I’d love to hear them!)
- Blush – Again, I’m super pale, so I need a little bit of added color on my face. I feel like it gives my face dimension and, well, that “alive!” feeling we all love. Lately I’ve been reaching for my Nars Orgasm liquid one the most, but I still wear a lot of the other ones I’ve posted about in the past.
- Concealer – Yes, third! At least, I feel like this is third for me — it still makes a really huge difference, but not as much as the first two. Lately I’ve been liking this one.
- (Eye cream – I always think about how some scientist/beauty bloggers made a big deal about how eye creams aren’t different than any other face cream, and your eyes don’t need anything special… but I do feel like my delicate eye area can “take” the richer cream on a more regular basis than the rest of my face, and having done an eye cream first really makes a difference with concealer application. I ran out of my favorite eye cream so I’ve been going through some other ones that I’ve acquired from random places before purchasing my favorite again.)
- Tinted lip gloss (or sheer lipstick) – this is always my finishing step before I meet people, and the one thing I always have on me so I can reapply it as needed. My latest favorite is Chantecaille’s, but I also reach for Dior Addict, NARS Afterglow, or my older Chubby sticks pretty regularly.
Readers, over to you — what beauty product makes the most difference for you?
Stock photo via Stencil.
Missoni Top, Reformation Tank, Doen Shorts, Chanel Flats (old, similar here), Call Me By Your Name Bag, Jenna Blake & Emily P Wheeler Necklaces
Summer might not seem like the season for layering, but that is exactly why it is worth being intentional about the pieces you add to bring dimension to a look. A shirt worn open, a poncho slipped over pants, a kaftan you have been waiting all season to wear, or a sarong tied before a beach day can shift the entire mood of an outfit before anything else is added.
What I love most about layering during the summer is how naturally the most unexpected color and texture combinations begin to happen. This edit brings together pieces that add movement, color, and shape to something otherwise simple, with accessories that just fall into place. Jewelry with subtle sparkle, a woven bag or sun hat, a crochet headscarf, each adding its own small point of view.
This is where the fun comes in: a chevron print beside a fuchsia basket bag, a bright bead against a translucent green layer. Nothing has to match perfectly. It just takes a bit of imagination to make summer dressing feel joyful, considered, and sun-drenched.
Experience the pinnacle of British tailoring with Savile Row Company non-iron shirts for men, a collection designed for the modern professional who values a sharp silhouette without the maintenance. Crafted from 100% premium cotton, these shirts feature a specialized non-iron finish that remains crisp and wrinkle-free from the first morning meeting to the final commute. Whether you prefer the streamlined slim fit or the generous classic fit, this range offers unparalleled versatility with single and double cuff options. From timeless white poplin to sophisticated blue-and-white stripes with contrasting collars, Savile Row Company brings Jermyn Street quality directly to your doorstep.
Light Blue Cotton Twill Slim Fit Non-Iron Shirt (Double Cuff) – Shop Now
White Cotton Poplin Classic Fit Non-Iron Shirt (Single or Double Cuff) – Shop Now
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Blue White Stripe Classic Fit Non-Iron Formal Shirt With White Collar & Cuffs (Double Cuff) – Shop Now
Navy Fine Twill Classic Fit Non-Iron Formal Shirt (Single Cuff) – Shop Now
White Navy Stripe Classic Fit Non-Iron Shirt (Single Cuff) – Shop Now
For any questions/feedback regarding the above mentioned products/brands,
please do contact us anytime by clicking here
Celebrate the spirit of the Emerald Isle with the Kilkenny Design New Irish Art Arrivals, a curated collection that captures the warmth, landscape, and nostalgia of Ireland. Featuring the work of local artisans and illustrators, this latest selection ranges from sentimental mini frames perfect for gifting to large-scale statement pieces like the 53cm x 53cm family frames. Whether it’s a whimsical tribute to the iconic Aran Sweater or a scenic depiction of The Shakey Bridge, these pieces bring a touch of Irish soul to any modern interior. Each frame is designed to tell a story, making them the perfect “Letters From Home” for those who cherish Irish heritage and contemporary craftsmanship.
FREE DELIVERY ROI ORDERS €89+
Home Love Family – Mini Frame
‘Family – Where Life Begins And Love Never Ends’
“Aran Sweaters, Ireland” Frame
She’s A Super Star – Mini Frame
“The Shakey Bridge”
“Letters From Home, Ireland” Frame
Fashion
Hot Summer Accessories: Sizzling Global Trends to Spice Up Your Look and Turn the Heat into Cool
Mod Lily sunglasses, Jimmy Fairly Paris. Nava 14K gold open spiral ring with amethyst and cabochon ruby wrap ring by German Kabirski. Dramatic Jeffery Campbell flip flops, Anthropologie. Hand crafted pink bucket hat by Ruslan Baginskiy.
Perhaps you’d love to splurge and purchase new and trendy outfits for fab designer summer looks. But why spend the money when you can upgrade last years’ fashion with today’s hottest accessories? A sustainable solution for looking cool when the sun comes out to play.
Lovely embroidered cropped Choli top. Vintage India, NYC.
Long sleeve embroidered cropped Choli top in patchwork design. Vintage India NYC is a boutique store located at 132 Lexington Avenue, New York City, that offers authentic, handcrafted Indian fashion, home decor and artisanal gifts.
Leather sandals with mint leather tassel. Handmade in India. Vintage India, NYC.
Elaborately embroidered Juttis slippers, Vintage India, NYC.
Leather sandals with pretty pink floral design. Handmade in India. Vintage India, NYC. $65.00.
Leather sandals, handmade in India, Prada. $995.00.
Rich crimson washable knit baskets by Issey Miyake.
Perfect crimson pleated “type-o-stole” by Issey Miyake, will take your look from the boardwalk to the boardroom.
The colors of the ocean and the sand, beach carry-alls by Issey Miyake.
From the Prince of Pleats, Issey Miyake crafts a delicate pleated shawl in leaf green, just the thing to toss over a swimsuit at the beach.
Fun and funky strawberry colored fringe bag by Anthropologie.
Don’t use a rubber band! Elegant textured scalloped claw hair clips. Anthropologie.
Charming floral embroidered maxi dress. Anthropologie.
Sweet scalloped mini dress featuring embroidered floral motif. Anthropologie.
Beach ready jellies, Anthropologie.
Bold Halo sunglasses, Jimmy Fairly Paris.
Pale peach, oval sunglasses by Jimmy Fairly Paris.
Chic retro Pippa sunglasses by Jimmy Fairly Paris.
Petite Sigi sunglasses, Jimmy Fairly Paris.
Luxurious cashmere shawl accented with chocolate plongé leather fringe. Axel’s Vail, Colorado.
Over dye denim jacket in rich mahogany. Axel’s Vail, Colorado.
Old school western belt, trimmed in sterling, Axel’s Vail, Colorado.
Contemporary sterling silver belt buckle, Axel’s Vail, Colorado.
Turquoise cashmere western shirt with raw edge accents. Axel’s Vail, Colorado.
Handmade statement turquoise belt buckle set in sterling. Axel’s Vail, Colorado.
Head turning denim bustier by Litkovska, an award winning Ukrainian brand.
Embroidered poplin balloon blouse by Litkovska. Wouldn’t this top look sweet paired with tiny cut-off shorts?
Inventive canvas and leather handbag. Litkovska.
Long drop earrings featuring a poppy motif. The poppy serves as Ukraine’s official symbol for remembrance and reconciliation. Litkovska.
Paspaley is based in Australia and creates incredible jewelry fashioned from exquisite South Sea pearls. Ring created with diamonds, yellow gold, pearls.
Ring shown on model, Paspaley.
Gemstone and pearl feather brooch, set in gold. Paspaley.
Triple pearl earrings with diamond accents. Paspaley.
Pearls, turquoise, diamonds and hardwood. Incredible bracelet by Paspaley.
Cozy batwing pullover sweater crafted by L’Envers, an independent French brand based in Spain that specializes in timeless, sustainable knitwear.
Organic cotton cropped trousers. L’Envers.
Hand knit scarf woven with organic cotton. L’Envers.
Short sleeve cardigan fashioned with organic cotton. L’Envers.
Sterling silver and chrysocolla earrings, hand made in Mexico. Available through Novica, the world’s largest impact marketplace, supporting artisans around the world.
Brilliant African hand woven Kente cloth scarf. Available through Novica.
Crystal embellished cowboy hat. Hand crafted by Ruslan Baginskiy, Ukrainian luxury hat designer.
Multi colored woven fedora. Ruslan Baginskiy.
Black and white woven fedora. Ruslan Baginskiy.
Denim baker boy cap. Ruslan Baginskiy.
Extraordinary sterling silver and peridot ring by the talented German Kabirski.
Alotar mixed stone earrings, German Kabirski.
Detail, Alotar mixed stone earrings, as seen on model. German Kabirski.
Fantastic organic ring of sterling, gold and mixed gemstones. German Kabirski.
For any questions/feedback regarding the above mentioned products/brands, please do contact us anytime by clicking here
This post may contain affiliate links and Corporette® may earn commissions for purchases made through links in this post. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Our daily workwear reports suggest one piece of work-appropriate attire in a range of prices.
I was recently complaining to a friend that it was time to replace some of my beloved Eileen Fisher crepe pants when she leapt out of her seat to show me her new favorite contenders in the category of “pants that are work-appropriate but still feel like pajamas.” As she jumped and stretched in these Vuori ankle pants, I decided that was enough of an endorsement for me to give them a try.
Like the other Vuori items I have in my closet, the fabric feels luxe, and the fit is perfection. With the elastic waistband in the back, I’m not sure I would wear these in the most formal of offices, but for 95% of us, they’ll be a great work option.
The pants are $110 at Vuori and come in sizes XS-XXL in a regular (26”) and long (29”) inseam. They’re also available in “blue coast,” “smokey taupe,” and cerise (in lucky sizes only).
Sales of note for 5/8:
- Nordstrom – Savings event – up to 25% off! Good deals on Veronica Beard, Vince, Reiss (esp. coats), and Boss, as well as Wit & Wisdom and NYDJ
- Ann Taylor – Mother’s Day Event: 40% off your purchase. Readers love this popover blouse, and their suiting is also in the sale.
- Boden – 15% off new styles with code
- Express – $39+ summer styles + 25% off everything else
- J.Crew – Up to 50% off swim, dresses, and more
- J.Crew Factory – Up to 60% off everything, and extra 50% off clearance
- Lands’ End – 50% off sitewide — lots of ponte dresses come down under $25, and this packable raincoat in gingham is too cute
- Lo & Sons – Mother’s Day Sale: Up to 40% off — reader favorites include this laptop tote, this backpack, and this crossbody
- Loft – 50% off your purchase + free shipping, plus 2 for $28 tanks and tees
- MAC – Enjoy 30% off lip products and receive a 4-piece Mother’s Day gift with $90
- M.M.LaFleur – Try code CORPORETTE15 for 15% off.
- Ruti – Take $55 off your purchase with code 55ONUS
- Sephora – Free same-day delivery for Mother’s Day with code
- Talbots – 50% off wear-now styles (5/8 only)
- The Outnet – Extra 30% off select styles, including Veronica Beard, Victoria Beckham, and Marni.
- TOCCIN – Use code CORPORETTE15 for 15% off!
- Vivrelle – Looking to own less stuff but still try trends? Use code CORPORETTE for a free month, and borrow high-end designer clothes and bags!
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