There are many keys to career success, but one of the most important skills is learning how to navigate job interviews and internships as professionally as possible. How you present yourself—especially how you dress—in a professional setting is one of the clearest ways to demonstrate how seriously you take yourself and your work. With the help of a well-curated wardrobe, you can showcase confidence, preparedness, and respect for those you work with, making a great first impression.

Dressing well boosts your confidence and helps you manifest the professional persona you’re aspiring to, but it can be tough to maintain on a student budget. That said, freeing up some room in your budget—such as with affordable BYU-I housing like American Avenue—can make a big difference. The savings you get from reasonable housing costs allow you to allocate more resources toward building the professional wardrobe you need. Here, we’ll explore how to do just that.

Assessing Your Current Wardrobe

First, take stock of the clothes you already own. You can save time and money by identifying pieces that can be integrated into your professional look, such as solid-colored blouses, button-up shirts, dark jeans, and blazers. Look for versatile pieces that can be dressed up or down to suit a professional setting.

For example, pair a classic white button-up shirt with slacks for an interview-ready look or layer it under a sweater for a less formal internship outfit. Dark-wash jeans or chinos can also be elevated with loafers and a blazer for a polished, professional appearance.

Wardrobe Must-Haves for Men and Women in Idaho

As chilly as Idaho can be—especially around the Rexburg area—you’ll want to dress professionally without sacrificing warmth. Here are some wardrobe essentials for both men and women to help you thrive in the Idaho climate:

For men:

  • Blazers and sport coats, especially in navy and gray
  • White dress shirts, along with light blues or subtle patterns
  • Slacks and chinos in neutral colors like black, gray, or khaki
  • Cold-weather coats, such as classic black or gray wool styles
  • Accessories like leather belts, matching dress shoes, or a timeless watch

For women:

  • Tailored blazers in black or navy or cardigans for layering on colder days
  • Neutral blouses and modest dresses with clean lines
  • Pencil skirts and tailored slacks in dark colors
  • Outerwear like trench coats or professional wool coats for winter months
  • Simple accessories, such as stud earrings, delicate necklaces, or a structured handbag

Regardless of gender, focus on neutral colors and classic styles. Accessories can personalize your look, but keep them subtle to maintain professionalism, which is all about meeting established standards and decorum.

Budget-Friendly Shopping Tips for BYU-I Students

You can build a professional wardrobe on a student budget with a little resourcefulness:

  • Shop secondhand: Check thrift stores and consignment shops near Rexburg for quality items at lower prices.
  • Browse sales: Look for clearance sales and online platforms offering discounts, promo codes, or free shipping.
  • Take your time: Establishing a professional wardrobe you love takes time. Build your wardrobe piece by piece, prioritizing essentials like a blazer, slacks, and versatile shirts.

Tips for Looking Polished on a Budget

Building the right wardrobe is just the first step to looking polished for a job interview or internship. Here are some budget-friendly ways to ensure you look sharp:

  • Grooming matters: Keep your hair neat, your nails clean, and your overall appearance tidy. If you don’t have extra cash for a haircut or manicure, try doing these things yourself or asking a friend!
  • Clean shoes and fitted clothing: Inspect and clean your shoes regularly and polish them to remove scuffs. Learn basic DIY alterations, like hemming pants or sewing on buttons, to improve the fit of your clothes.
  • Clothing care: Read care labels to ensure you wash your garments properly. The last thing you want to do is ruin the new clothing you just purchased. Use a steamer or iron to keep clothes wrinkle-free.

What to Wear to an Interview or Internship in Rexburg

When preparing for an interview, make every effort to match your attire to the industry or company culture. Research their dress code and choose from the following styles appropriately:

  • Casual: Keep things simple and pair dark jeans with a button-up shirt or a modest blouse and flats. Add a blazer for a polished touch.
  • Business casual: For men, chinos and a dress shirt with loafers work well. For women, try slacks or a skirt with a blouse and low heels.
  • Formal: For men, a suit and tie with dress shoes are essential. For women, consider a modest dress or skirt suit paired with closed-toe pumps.

If you’re commuting long distances for internships or interviews, pack light but professionally. A few versatile pieces can mix and match to create multiple outfits without overpacking.

Save More With Affordable BYU-I Housing

Building a professional wardrobe is a valuable investment in your future, and it’s easier with affordable housing like American Avenue. Housing costs can take a big chunk out of your budget, so reducing them gives you more financial flexibility to prioritize quality attire.

Affordable BYU-I housing options at American Avenue allow students to save money without sacrificing comfort. With these savings, you can focus on career-ready essentials for your wardrobe.

Whether you’re gearing up for interviews or internships, it’s never too early to start preparing. Begin building your professional wardrobe today and set yourself up for success. For affordable student housing that supports your career aspirations, explore American Avenue’s options. Contact us for a tour or learn about our latest deals for the new semester, including women’s apartment homes.