Your Summer Associate Wardrobe on a Law Student Budget

The approaching end of the school year means your time as a summer associate will soon be here. If you will be working at a Big Law firm or require a business-oriented wardrobe, now is a great time to review what’s in your closet and figure out what additional pieces you might need.

To help you prepare your summer wardrobe, we’ve asked students how and where they found the best clothing deals while staying within their tight budget. Here are the tips they had to offer:

First, know what you’ll need

Once you know the culture of your firm, courthouse or workplace, you can start understanding the dress code you’ll need to adhere to. You can do this by arranging for a visit to the firm, meeting with your firm’s mentor or reaching out to the previous summer associates for some intel.

Plan to mix and match

Now that you know what to shop for, make it a goal to build a wardrobe that you can mix and match easily. Try to acquire pieces that will complement each other and that could easily be swapped in and out to make different outfits. One way to do this is to pick a color theme that will allow you to repeat wardrobe pieces like a shell, jacket or skirt on varying days without creating a sense of duplication.

Shop a variety of places

Whether it’s your local Goodwill, consignment shops, online thrift stores such as Poshmark or thredUP, or big box retailers (think Nordstrom Rack, Costco, Target, TJ Maxx, Marshalls and more), there are a multitude of options and amazing deals to be had even on designer suits. Many students also recommended renting clothes for the summer. You’ll get new clothes that fit your style — or that of your employer — and never have to worry about dry cleaning. Saving money, saving money!

Scope out sales

This is probably a given, but don’t forget to check out the clearance rack at your favorite department or outlet/factory store. Take advantage of “friends and family” events as well for great discounts.  

Go for quality, if you can swing it

While there are many ways to avoid breaking the bank on your summer wardrobe, in some ways it also makes sense to have a few quality pieces on hand. Whether that’s a blazer that you can mix and match or shoes that will provide lasting support and comfort, consider adding quality whenever possible. You’ll likely find such items will more than make up for their price.

Tailoring is an option

Be glad if you don’t need to seek out a tailor but keep the service in mind as you peruse the discounts. Should you find something that is close to your size but that needs some minor adjustments, tailoring can be the key. Check with your local dry cleaner to see if they can do minor tailoring and alterations or for a recommendation.

Good luck as you take on the life of a summer associate!!

For general tips on summer clerkships, internships and more, visit this page.