Walking into a law firm as an intern is nerve-racking before you've opened a single file. Law holds onto a conservative dress code longer than almost any other field, and attorneys do notice what the new person wears in week one. As a wardrobe stylist, I don't think an intern wardrobe needs to be expensive. It needs to fit well, survive a long day of sitting, and look right in a courtroom, a corporate tower or a public defender's office. Below are thirty complete looks, shoes and bags included, so you can get dressed at 7 a.m. without guessing.
Court Days, Desk Days and Casual Fridays
The thirty looks below run from courtroom formal to smart casual, and the most useful thing I can teach you is which end your office sits on. In the first week, watch the associates rather than the partners or the other interns. Partners can bend rules you can't, and the other interns are guessing just like you.
Court and client days
A suit or a dress with a blazer, closed-toe shoes and hair off the face. Looks 1, 2, 4, 17 and 26 belong here. Stick to dark colors, because a courtroom is not the place to test burgundy.
Ordinary office days
Tailored trousers or a knee-length skirt with a blouse or fine knit. Most of the list lives here. Leave a blazer on the back of your chair all summer, since meetings get called with five minutes' notice.
Casual Fridays
Only once someone has told you jeans or shorts are allowed. Even then, I keep the top half formal with a blazer or a pressed shirt, so the outfit still reads as work.
1. Black pantsuit with white button-down and black pumps
When I build an intern wardrobe, the black pantsuit is the first thing I buy, because it covers court, the first day and any interview that turns up mid-summer. Look for a tailored blazer and matching straight or slim trousers in a wool blend with a little stretch; cheap polyester starts to shine at the seat after a few months of sitting. Tuck a crisp white cotton button-down in cleanly and leave the top button open if no tie is expected. I keep the pump low, two to three inches with a block heel, because courthouse corridors are long and polished floors are slippery. Match the belt to the shoe, carry a structured tote big enough for a legal pad, and stop at small gold studs.
2. Navy skirt suit with silk blouse and nude heels
Navy reads just as formal as black but less severe under office lighting, which is why I often steer interns toward it for client-facing mornings. Choose a single-button blazer and a pencil skirt that lands at or just below the knee, then sit down in the fitting room. If the hem rides well above the knee once you're seated with a notepad, go up a size or find a skirt with a back vent. A champagne or ivory silk blouse adds a little sheen so the navy doesn't look flat. Nude pointed pumps at a mid height lengthen the leg, a neutral leather satchel carries files, and a small pendant should sit just above the blouse's neckline.
3. Charcoal grey trousers with camel blazer and loafers
This is the outfit that teaches you to mix separates. Charcoal high-waisted trousers with a straight or slightly tapered leg give a long line, and a camel blazer in a wool blend or heavy crepe warms the grey without breaking any rules. I put a cream fine-knit crewneck or thin turtleneck underneath so there's no collar to fuss with all day. Dark brown or burgundy penny loafers carry you through hours of document review. One caution: camel shows coffee and pen marks quickly, so keep a stain pen in the tote. A watch and a structured bag finish it.
4. Black sheath dress with blazer and block-heel pumps
On rushed mornings, a dress removes the matching problem entirely. I look for a knee-length black sheath in ponte or a heavy crepe; thin jersey clings and shows every line by mid-afternoon. Check the shoulders and hips by reaching forward as if across a conference table, because that's where a sheath pulls first. Wear a black or charcoal blazer open over it so the shape doesn't turn boxy, and pick suede or leather block pumps around two inches high for walking between buildings. Pearls or a slim gold chain and a tote that fits a laptop are enough. Keep this one ready for an unexpected court visit, since it needs nothing extra to pass.
5. White blouse with black wide-leg trousers and pointed flats
Wide-leg trousers are kinder to a long day at a desk than almost anything else, because nothing binds at the knee when you sit. The hem is where they go wrong. I have them hemmed while wearing the exact flats, so the fabric just grazes the top of the shoe; any longer and the back drags on the floor and frays within weeks. Black high-waisted pairs with a pressed crease look sharpest. A white semi-sheer pussy-bow blouse, loosely tucked, needs a skin-tone camisole underneath in a law office. Pointed black ballet flats keep the proportions balanced, and a thin belt, a silver bracelet and a sleek tote are all it needs.
6. Grey plaid trousers with black turtleneck and ankle boots
Plaid trousers are the easiest way I know to add pattern to a conservative wardrobe, as long as the check stays small and grey. Glen check or a fine windowpane reads as texture from across a room. Pair it with a fitted black merino turtleneck; merino tucks flatter than a cotton blend and doesn't add bulk at the waistband. Black leather or suede ankle boots with a low stacked heel suit the season, but make sure the trouser hem covers the boot shaft when you're standing. A black wool coat for the commute, a black tote, small silver hoops and a watch are plenty next to the pattern.
7. Beige tailored trousers with navy blazer and silk camisole
Beige trousers are a warm-weather favorite of mine, but they're less forgiving than dark ones. Pick a high-waisted slim straight pair in a cotton blend with some stretch, and check them from behind in daylight, since pale fabric can show pocket linings and underwear lines. A navy single-breasted blazer gives the contrast. Underneath, an ivory silk or satin camisole looks refined, though I only recommend it if the neckline stays high enough that you'd be comfortable taking the blazer off. Nude or tan low block heels and a matching tan belt keep attention away from the feet; add a fine gold chain and a structured tote.
8. Burgundy blazer with black pencil skirt and leather pumps
Burgundy is the color I suggest when an intern wants to be remembered at a networking event without looking out of place. A burgundy blazer in matte crepe or a wool blend carries the outfit; shiny fabric in that shade drifts toward evening wear. Wear it over a black pencil skirt that ends just below the knee and a plain black crewneck or fitted shell. Black leather mid-height pumps anchor it, and gold suits burgundy better than silver, so think small hoops and a slim bracelet. Add a structured black bag and a watch. I'd use it for presentations and receptions rather than a first day.
9. Black sweater with khaki trousers and leopard-print loafers
For business casual offices, this is my go-to Friday outfit. A black fine-knit sweater over a white collared shirt, with collar and cuffs showing, looks neat as long as the shirt is fitted; a loose shirt bunches under the knit and shows through as ridges. Khaki straight-leg trousers with a flat front keep it classic. Leopard calf-hair loafers are the only pattern, and I'd keep it that way. Calf hair wears bald at the toe and heel if you scuff it, so these aren't a commuting shoe. A black belt, a neutral tote and tiny gold studs finish it.
10. Olive green trousers with cream blazer and tan loafers
Olive is a good answer when you're tired of black and navy trousers but still want something dark. I pair slim straight olive trousers with a cream or ivory single-button blazer, because that contrast looks deliberate rather than accidental. A white or beige cotton-blend blouse, tucked, keeps the palette quiet. Tan loafers, flat or with a slight heel, tie the earth tones together. Olive varies a lot from maker to maker, and the yellow-leaning ones can make some complexions look sallow, so hold the trousers up near your face in daylight before buying. A gold watch, a cream canvas tote and studs are enough for most business casual legal offices.
11. Navy midi dress with white blazer and slingback heels
A navy midi is the softer option on this list, and it carries straight into an evening bar association event. I'd pick an A-line or fit-and-flare that falls below the knee in a fabric with body, like crepe or cotton sateen, so it doesn't cling as you walk. If it's sleeveless, the blazer stays on in meetings, since bare arms still read as too casual in many firms. A crisp white blazer gives sharp contrast; it also shows every smudge, so treat it as a dry-clean piece. Navy and white kitten-heel slingbacks tie in the colors, and a pearl bracelet with a structured navy or white bag is plenty.
12. Black cropped trousers with striped button-down and ballet flats
Cropped trousers look sharp in a law office only if the length is exact. I aim for a hem that ends just above the ankle bone; anything near mid-calf starts to look casual and shows too much leg when you sit. Choose black with structure, such as a cotton-wool blend, rather than a soft drapey crepe. A blue-and-white striped button-down, fully tucked in formal offices or half-tucked where things are relaxed, keeps it light. Black leather ballet flats with a small bow or buckle, a thin belt, a silver necklace and a crossbody or top-handle bag finish it. Save it for library and office days with no court on the calendar.
13. White button-down with grey pinstripe trousers and black oxfords
Pinstripe carries authority in law firms, courthouses and government buildings alike. High-waisted grey pinstripe trousers with a slightly wider leg give a long line, but only if they're hemmed to you; extra length folds the stripes at the ankle and the effect is lost. A pressed white button-down tucked in neatly is the backbone. Black leather oxfords or polished loafers with a slight heel give a menswear finish, and I'd match the belt to them with a plain silver buckle. Add a sleek watch and a structured briefcase or tote. It's the traditional lawyer aesthetic with no fuss at all.
14. Camel trousers with black cashmere sweater and suede pumps
Mixing textures makes a simple two-color outfit look more expensive than it was, which matters on an intern budget. Camel trousers with a front crease and a straight leg form the base. Tuck in a black cashmere or cashmere-blend sweater with a crew or scoop neck; it will pill where your forearms rest on the desk, so I keep a fabric comb at home and de-pill every few wears. Black suede pumps with a three-inch heel add polish, though suede spots in rain, so check the forecast first. A tortoiseshell claw clip and a black leather tote finish it. I like it for client meetings when you want to feel quietly put together.
15. Grey sweater dress with opaque tights and knee-high boots
For properly cold mornings, a sweater dress is warm and still professional, provided it's thick enough. I look for merino or a dense knit that hits at or just below the knee; thin knits cling to tights and show every seam. Opaque black tights add warmth and a clean line into the boot. The boots are the tricky part: black leather knee-highs with a low block heel and a slim shaft that sits close to the calf. A gap at the top looks sloppy, and wide-calf versions exist if standard shafts won't zip. A long black wool coat, a structured tote and small silver earrings complete it.
16. Navy trousers with light blue button-down and brown loafers
A tonal blue outfit looks fresh and sits comfortably inside business casual. Navy slim or straight trousers go with a light blue cotton button-down; a point collar looks traditional and a band collar more modern, though I'd keep the band collar for relaxed offices. Polished brown penny or tassel loafers warm up the cool tones, with a thin brown belt matched closely to them. Light blue cotton hides creases better than white, which is why I suggest it for long drafting days. Carry a tan or cognac tote, with a silver watch and small hoops.
17. Black jumpsuit with tailored blazer and pointed heels
A black jumpsuit in crepe or ponte saves real minutes on hectic mornings and, with a blazer over it, passes for a suit. Look for a defined waist, either a self-tie belt or seaming, and a modest V-neck that stays professional when you lean over a desk. The drawback nobody mentions is the restroom: you have to take the whole thing half off, so make sure the zip is one you can reach on your own. A black or charcoal tailored blazer adds the structure. Black pointed heels keep it sharp for court or clients, and pearls or classic studs with a structured handbag are enough.
18. Cream trousers with chambray shirt and tan belt and loafers
Thin cream cotton turns see-through under office lights, so the first thing I check on cream trousers is weight. Get that right and they look crisp all spring and summer. A chambray button-down tucked in neatly looks relaxed but still polished; roll the sleeves once or twice and keep the collar pressed. A tan belt matched to tan loafers anchors the outfit. A brown leather satchel and a simple watch are all the extra it needs, and I'd keep it for business casual offices.
19. Black and white houndstooth skirt with black turtleneck and pumps
Houndstooth reads as conservative even in bold black and white. A houndstooth pencil or A-line skirt that ends below the knee becomes the focus. Tuck in a fine-gauge black turtleneck that fits close, since a chunky knit hides the waistband and shortens the torso. Black mid-height pumps and a simple black belt keep it cohesive. A red lip is optional; carry a black leather tote and keep earrings small, silver or pearl, so the pattern stays in charge. It already reads court-ready, and a black blazer over it settles any doubt.
20. White trousers with navy striped top and espadrille flats
Summer internships in hot cities need breathable fabric, and white trousers freshen the rotation while still looking professional. Choose a tailored straight or slightly wide pair in a cotton-linen blend; pure linen creases behind the knees within an hour of sitting, the blend much less. The striped boatneck top should be a substantial knit, not a thin T-shirt, so it tucks cleanly. Closed-toe espadrille flats in navy or tan leather keep it office-safe, but the jute sole soaks up water, so they're a dry-weather shoe. A straw or canvas tote and simple gold hoops finish it.
21. Burgundy leather skirt with black silk blouse and ankle boots
A leather skirt can pass in a conservative office when the shape is modest and the color dark, and burgundy is about as far as I'd push it. Choose an A-line or pencil cut just below the knee; real leather softens and molds to you over time, while cheaper faux leather can crack along the seat crease. A long-sleeved black silk blouse with a soft sheen, loosely tucked, keeps it refined. Black ankle boots with a stacked block heel and pointed toe lengthen the leg, and opaque tights add coverage in cold months. Keep a black blazer nearby, and finish with simple silver earrings and a structured black bag.
22. Grey tailored shorts with blazer and white blouse and flat sandals
Tailored shorts only work when the office has clearly said so, and I'd ask before assuming. Pick grey shorts with a longer inseam, ending around four to five inches above the knee, in gabardine or a structured cotton blend that holds a crease. A white sleeveless blouse or short-sleeve button-down tucked in, plus a light grey or navy blazer, makes them look deliberate. The sandals need a back strap; anything that slaps against the floor undoes the whole effect. Add a watch, a structured tote and fine gold jewelry. Never for court.
23. Olive utility trousers with white tee and oversized blazer and sneakers
Public interest offices and smaller firms often run a relaxed code where smart casual fits right in. Olive utility trousers with a straight leg and flat front look polished, as long as the pockets lie flat and empty; anything bulging reads as weekend. A heavyweight white cotton T-shirt, never a sheer one, tucked in gives a neutral base. An oversized black or charcoal blazer pulls it together, but oversized should still fit at the shoulder seam. Low white leather sneakers, wiped clean every week, a canvas tote, a silver watch and simple hoops finish it.
24. Powder blue blouse with navy trousers and silver ballet flats
Pastels survive in a law office when the shapes stay structured and something dark grounds them. A powder blue blouse in matte crepe or silk blend with a small pussy-bow adds color quietly; shiny pastel satin can look like bridesmaid wear. Tuck it into high-waisted straight navy trousers. Silver or grey ballet flats with a slightly pointed toe keep it light. Metallic leather scuffs at the toe, so I treat these as office shoes and commute in something else. A silver watch, pearl studs and a structured grey or navy bag suit spring client meetings where you want to seem approachable.
25. Black blazer with white jeans and nude pumps
Only wear this one if the office has said jeans are fine, because white denim gets noticed. Choose straight-leg or bootcut white jeans in heavy denim with no rips, fading or distressing; thin white denim shows the pocket bags through and loses its shape by lunch. A black tailored blazer makes the jeans look intentional, with a black or white shell tucked underneath. Nude mid-height pumps lengthen the leg. A black leather belt, a structured tote and pearl or gold earrings round it out. Save it for confirmed casual Fridays and informal office events.
26. Navy pinstripe suit with blush blouse and taupe heels
Misaligned stripes are the quickest tell of a cheaply cut suit, so before anything else I check that the stripes meet at the shoulder seams and pockets. A pinstripe suit already looks authoritative, and a blush blouse underneath stops it tipping into severe. Navy pinstripe in a lightweight wool blend is the one I'd choose. A long-sleeved blush blouse with a soft sheen also warms the face. Taupe or blush pointed heels keep the palette together, and a rose-gold watch, pearl studs and a beige structured bag finish it for presentations and networking events.
27. Grey blazer with black leather leggings and long tunic blouse
I'd only try this in a modern, less traditional firm, and only after seeing what others wear. Black ponte or coated leggings with a matte finish, not shiny spandex, can work when the top covers the hips and seat completely. A long black tunic blouse or oversized button-down provides that coverage, and a grey tailored blazer adds structure. Do the bend test in a mirror: if the leggings turn sheer at the knee or seat when you crouch, they aren't office leggings. Black pointed flats or low block heels, a structured black tote, a geometric necklace and a low bun keep it modern.
28. Camel coat with all-black outfit and leather gloves
Your coat is the first thing anyone sees on a winter morning, so it should match the formality underneath. Start with all black: tailored trousers, a fine-knit sweater or turtleneck and low-heeled leather ankle boots. A camel wool coat in a classic single-breasted or wrap silhouette goes over the top. Watch where your bag strap sits, because a shoulder tote rubs wool in the same spot every day and pills it fast. Black leather gloves and a black cashmere scarf add warmth without a competing color, and a black tote with minimal silver jewelry keeps it unified.
29. Tweed blazer with black trousers and Mary Jane heels
Texture is underused in legal dressing, and tweed adds depth without breaking a single rule. A black-and-white or grey-and-cream tweed blazer with a tailored fit goes with plain black slim or straight trousers. Tweed is bulkier than suiting, so I keep the layer underneath thin: a fine knit or a silk shell. Black Mary Jane heels with a mid block heel add a slight vintage touch, and the strap keeps them on your foot on stairs. A black leather shoulder bag, pearl drops and a slim watch finish it. Best in fall and winter, when heavy cloth makes sense.
30. Beige linen trousers with white shell and open cardigan and mules
Linen belongs in a legal wardrobe in the hottest months, provided you accept that it creases and press it every morning anyway. Beige or stone linen trousers with a straight leg and front crease form the base. A white sleeveless shell in a substantial fabric, not ribbed cotton, tucks smoothly. A long lightweight open cardigan in beige or cream replaces the blazer and still covers the shoulders, though I'd keep a blazer at the desk in case a partner pulls you into a meeting. Tan leather mules with a low block heel and a woven tote finish it. Non-court days only.
Building Thirty Outfits From a Dozen Pieces
Nobody needs thirty outfits' worth of new clothes for a ten-week internship. When I plan an intern capsule, I buy in this order, because each piece multiplies the ones bought before it.
- A black suit, worn together for court and split apart the rest of the week
- A navy blazer plus a camel or grey one for mixing
- Two pairs of tailored trousers, one charcoal and one lighter neutral
- One knee-length sheath dress in ponte or crepe
- Three tops: a white button-down, a silk or crepe blouse and a fine merino knit
- Black block pumps and a pair of loafers or flats you can walk in all day
Keep everything in black, navy, grey, camel and cream and almost any top will go with any bottom. Add one colored or patterned piece at a time once you know the office. Alternate your shoes too; leather needs a day to dry out between wears and lasts far longer for it.
Alterations Worth Paying For Before Day One
Off-the-rack suiting is cut for one height and one waist-to-hip ratio, so most people need at least one change. These are the ones I'd pay for first.
- Trouser hems, done while wearing the shoes you'll actually work in
- Taking in a waistband that gaps at the back, common on curvy figures when trousers fit the hip
- Shortening jacket sleeves so a sliver of shirt cuff shows
- Lowering or raising a skirt hem so it stays near the knee when you sit
If you're petite, try petite suiting first; shortening a regular jacket rarely fixes where the pockets and buttons fall. Tall interns should check sleeve length and trouser rise before anything else, since a tailor can only let out the fabric left in the seam. Shoulders are the one thing I'd never try to alter. If the shoulder seam doesn't sit on your shoulder bone, leave that jacket on the rack.
Suit First, Everything Else Once You've Seen the Office
Dressing for a legal internship comes down to reading the room and owning a small set of pieces that fit well enough to rotate without thinking. Start with neutrals, structured shapes and closed-toe shoes, and add color or pattern once you've seen what your office actually tolerates. Court means a suit or a dress with a blazer every time; research days give you more room. If money is tight, spend it on tailoring before labels, because a properly hemmed trouser does more than any trend. The aim is for people to remember your work, not your clothes.
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