So it's your first big girl job eh?

First off, Congrats! Landing an internship over the summer is not easy. This is an exciting time for you, filled with new opportunities, challenges, and growth. Entering the office for the first time sounds scary. You might be asking yourself, “what should I be wearing?”. Navigating corporate attire can be tricky in the beginning, but the Threads team is here to help you every step of the way. So, let's do this together.

The Prep

Before we get started, it's important to note how often you'll be going into the office. A Monday-to-Friday, 9-to-5 schedule means you'll need a lot of outfits for one week; so preparation is key. Here are some essential items to ensure you're ready for any day at work:

1. Button-Down Blouses: Every person should own at least 2-3 button-down blouses in staple colors like white, black, and muted tones (such as navy or beige). These versatile pieces can be mixed and matched with various bottoms and layered under blazers or sweaters.
2. Black Blazer: A black blazer is essential. It's perfect for meetings, presentations, and any day you want to elevate your look. A well-fitted blazer instantly adds a professional touch to any outfit.
3. Summer-Appropriate Dresses and Skirts: Since it's summer, having a few appropriate dresses and skirts in your wardrobe will take you far. Opt for knee-length or midi styles. These can be paired with blouses or blazers for a polished look.
4. Tights: Tights are a must, whether nude or black. They provide a professional appearance and are perfect for pairing with dresses and skirts, especially in an office environment.
5. Comfortable Shoes: Make sure they're comfortable and versatile. You are going to want to have some "trusty" pairs that don't cause pain all day long. Also, opt for something that you can dress up or down.

Shaping Your Wardrobe

Now that you have what you need, the next step is actually creating outfits. This part can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. 

Our top 3 tips:

1. Start with the bottoms: Usually...we have more tops than bottoms. So, it can be easier to find a matching blouse once you've decided which pants, skirt, or shorts to wear. 
2. Make sure you're comfortable: There’s nothing worse than sitting in a desk chair all day in an uncomfortable outfit. Keep it professional, but make sure you're not sacrificing comfort for style. 
3. Quality over Quantity: The quality of your work clothing is important, because they can be worn repeatedly without ripping or wearing out. For example: Threads hosiery, whether that be the knee-highs or contour tights, are the top of the line and could be worn every day of the week if needed. It's important to have reliable clothing, especially for the workplace. 

Set out your outfits for the week: At 7AM, the last thing you wanna be doing is running around trying to find an outfit for the office. On Sunday nights, pick out your outfits for the week and take pictures! This way you don't have to rush and you're ready for anything that comes your way.

Embrace Your Journey

This is a huge milestone and you should feel proud of yourself. Your wardrobe plays a role in both your confidence and comfort. By following these office style tips and preparing your outfits in advance, you'll minimize a bit of morning stress each day. This is a learning experience, so go easy on yourself, and make adjustments that work for you along the way. Take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way during this exciting time. If you need anything, we’re here for you!