Intern fashion

The summer internship season is approaching, and many students struggle to find business attire that conveys professionalism and personality. The goal is to dress like an employee, not an intern. You do want to stand out, but in a good way.

Make sure your clothing is consistent with the culture of the company. If ever in doubt about what to wear, it is always best to be overdressed since you can always remove a tie or stockings, loosen your collar or take off a jacket to become more casual-but it is tough to dress up jeans and a T-shirt.

Your attire could win a full-time position for you because it shows that you take the job seriously. Ultimately, ask your supervisor or another employee to provide you with the best indication for appropriate attire. Until then, The Lantern offers some tips to help guide your internship-wear choices.

The DON'TS

Don't wear excessive jewelry and makeup that would make you look like a star of the 80s.

Don't have long fake nails because they will make it hard to type or shake someone's hand.

Don't wear a bulky bookbag or an oversized purse that you pack everything in, from papers to cosmetics. Carry a briefcase for the paperwork and a smaller purse for everything else.

Don't wear too much cologne or perfume, someone might be allergic, and people should not be able to smell you from down the hall.

Don't wear a skirt or pants with a high slit. The thigh should never be showing.

Although you might want to try a lighter hair color for the summer, don't get tacky highlights or die your hair bright red, pink, green, etc.

Don't wear sunglasses indoors, unless you are interning for P. Diddy.

Don't wear your hair in your face. Your employer should be able to see you, and you need to be able to see your work.

Don't wear shirts with phrases, such as "My boyfriend is cuter than yours."

Ladies, don't wear low-v-necks or low-cut tops. Know your body type, and keep the girls in.

Don't wear strappy, open-toe shoes that tie all the way up your leg.

The DO's

OUTFIT

Women should wear a nice solid or striped button-up shirt, which can be accessorized with a necklace, belt or a vest. Wear pants or a nice skirt that comes down to the knees.

MAKEUP

Keep it to a minimum with a light eye shadow, eye liner and mascara. Have the nail color be more of a traditional pink, red, orange, tan or a soft color.

JEWELRY

Wear bracelets, rings and earrings that accent the outfit.

SHOES

Wear a nice heel that at least matches your pants or shirt. But if an internship requires being on one's feet, a basic black flat shoe is a must.

OUTFIT

For men, wear a nice, pressed dress shirt with some slacks or khakis. Also wear a vest or a blazer and add a tie to this combination if you want a dressier edge. Make sure the shirt and pants fit well and are not too baggy but also don't cut off circulation. Try different designs and colors instead of wearing the traditional white long-sleeve button-down shirt all summer long.

JEWELRY

Wear a classic watch, a bracelet and a ring. Maybe take out earrings if interning in a formal business setting, and that includes all other piercings as well.

SHOES

Wear a leather loafer or low-top boot, and do not be afraid to try a bolder color.

Heather Hope can be reached at hope.27@osu.edu.