‘Tis the season for interns and recent grads to flood into the area, searching for résumé builders, the “real world” and cheap beer. Those entering the working world for the first time are faced with the same questions: “Do I really have to stay here ALL day?”, “I’m only getting paid HOW much?” and “I’ve already worn my interview suit three days in a row — what do I wear now?”

The answers to the first two questions are variations of “unfortunately, yes,” but the third question is a bit more complicated. Every office is different, and thus, every dress code varies. Overall, though, we are talking about office wear and D.C. tends to lean more toward the conservative. This doesn’t mean you have to morph into a power-suited Capitol Hill lemming, but considering adding your flair with funky accessories and creative colors or textures. Think N.Y.C.’s Madison Avenue, not Bahama booze cruise when rebelling against D.C.’s buttoned-up silhouette.

A disclaimer: DCist doesn’t intend to target interns and recent grads as fashion offenders. In fact, as one DCist noted, “It’s not the interns that are the problem.” However, we know it’s hard enough to adjust to “professional” life in a new place and on a laughable salary without worrying about what you’re wearing. We’re here to help.

(Photo from Nordstrom.com.)