Appropriate....?

ChildoftheHorn · #1 05-23-2007, 02:30 AM

So, last week I accepted an internship offer.

The company is in downtown Chicago and has a business casual dress code.
I have been told that I will be working in a largely male environment.

What is appropriate as far as letters go? *My black tote is ZTA, have keychains, etc.*

Should I wear skirts (would it be appropriate given the environment)?

Hair down or tied back or headband?

I just want to make sure to set the right impression while still being myself; most importantly in a way that deserves respect. I really just don't want to be looked at as a kid while I am there.

ZTAngel · #2 05-23-2007, 07:44 AM

No letters. Many people do not have a great impression of sorority girls so I would "hide" anything ZTA related until you get to know your co-workers better.

Skirts are fine. Just make sure they're at least down to your knees.

PenguinTrax · #3 05-23-2007, 08:44 AM

Co sign with ZTAngel. A keychain is one thing, a tote with 6" high ZTA is not as professional.

Skirts at or below the knee. Capri, cropped or full length pants. Nothing 'jean styled'. Tailored shirts or tees, no bare shoulders, spaghetti straps, etc. Simple classic jewelry to start, making things more personal as you get used to the place and what is appropriate. Think Talbots, Ann Taylor, etc.

PhenomenalZTA · #4 05-23-2007, 09:17 AM

I work in an office that has a "Business Casual" dress code. I also find it confusing sometimes, because you want to appear comfortable and relaxed (casual), yet professional and put-together (business). The words business and casual contradict themselves!!

I went to a Department store and bought a few separates (pants, skirt, a couple of tops, and a jacket.) I find I can really stretch my wardrobe with these key pieces that have a more business look to them. I do wear skirts occasionally, but they are always knee-length (or longer). Hair of course varies with the outfit, but I try to stay away from plain-ole ponytails and opt for something a bit classier.

I have letters on my Key Chain and a plate on my Car, but don't think I would carry a tote bag to desk. That might be overkill. GOOD LUCK IN YOUR INTERNSHIP!!!!

OneTimeSBX · #5 05-23-2007, 09:37 AM

good morning ladies...just scanning the threads and ran across this one.

i, too, work in a mostly male environment. i have found that the #1 rule of working with guys is start out as un-sexy as you can possibly be! that way, when they talk about the new girl, its "yeah, shes really got her stuff together" instead of "have you seen the hips on that gal?"

i agree with the comment about not portraying yourself as a sorority girl yet, but im sure there are plenty of frat boys there. i shop from Newport News catalogs and also Limited and Dillards. they have three piece suits sometimes that have the pants, skirt, and jacket that interchange. i wear pants more but in this day and age, most people probably wont mind. just do like i did...the first day i was 100% conservative, and i checked out the few ladies that were there and adjusted accordingly... i dont ever worry about hair too much, but a nice ponytail or (my fave) a bun is always a sleek look too. Good luck!