Alla Goldman, a political science senior, is a style-savvy girl. Not only is Goldman a blogging fanatic, but she — and the people reading her blog — knows she is Fashion Forward.

It is internship season and Goldman knows the right outfit to wear for an interview and what is considered “”work wear.”” She has held internship positions with the U.S. Department of State, a law firm in Scottsdale, and this summer she’ll be interning with the U.S. government. To prepare for internships, Alla shops at fashion-forward, yet affordable, places. She recommends Express, J. Crew, Banana Republic and Target.

There are certain items no girl should be without at her interview or internship. A pencil skirt is one of the easiest and smartest ways to look like you mean business. Any store listed above will have a pencil skirt ranging from $20 to $200. The skirt can be paired with a blouse or collared shirt — both are acceptable in the workplace.

Take notes from Alla’s outfits. They show a professional, serious woman ready for business. Don’t be caught in some bad prep school skirt. If you want to land an internship or job, start dressing like a confident businesswoman, not a slacker.