Hi everyone,
I'm 20 years old, and will be interning in the buying department of a high-end fashion house this summer in NYC. Since I'm young, and it will be my first fashion internship, I really want to impress and make sure they know I'm serious! However, I want to look fashion-forward as well. Any suggestions for staple pieces/outfits? What shoes to wear? Also, if you're from the city, any great stores that you would recommend looking at for these purchases? Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks a lot,
Kelly

Sounds like a dream job! Depending on the office vibe, I would definitely invest in a great black pencil skirt and a nice fitted jacket to begin with. You can use these with almost anything. Great pumps that are comfortable are probably a must, too. Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, all have some great stuff. If you want to go ultra trendy you could try some of the department stores such as Macys, Nordstrom. All depends on your budget really!

I would make this suggestion, no matter how hot it gets, stick with city shorts (nothing shorter than just above the knee). Theory makes divine city shorts in beige and white, which you can wear with a simple top and layered necklaces.

Another way to "feel your way" through the first few days is to wear classics but spruce them up with fun makeup (try a bright lipstick or experiment with navy eyeliner).

Espadrilles are a great summer staple that are appropriate for work. Castaner are my favorites and available in different colors.
http://www.shopstyle.com/browse/Castaner

Last but not least, when all else fails, you can never go wrong with combinations of black and white. Plus it's a great way to mix and match looks with a limited budget.

Good luck and have a great summer!

Definitely make sure your shoes are comfortable! Even if you don't have to walk far, it will most likely be a lot compared to what you are used to if you are from the suburbs. A lot of people go with ballerina flats as well.

I think accessories are a great way to jazz up your outfits and really let your personality shine through without breaking the bank. I know when I worked in magazines in NYC, the running around just about killed me and I agree with the comments above - always keep a pair of ballet flats avail in your desk so you can get around town easily if need be. It's amazing how far a Starbucks can be when your shoes are killing you.

There will be lots of people with fab clothes and tons of resources to throw at the problem, so I think the key is just dressing in a way that is chic and comfortable for you.