Cost of clothing: covered

Law students are getting kitted out in smart new duds thanks to Dress for Success.

Joeli Filipo and David Tupou
Joeli Filipo and David Tupou check out smart shoes, belts and ties in the Law School's new Dress for Success closet.

A pop-up treasure trove of stylish attire joined the Law School's book-filled offices and lecture theatres this month.

The free wardrobe, brimming with men's shoes, shirts, jackets, pants, ties and more, thanks to a partnership between the faculty and Dress for Success, is located in the Pacific Island Law Students' Association office, and is being utilised by students who want a professional look for an interview, internship, or a new job.

Meanwhile, female law students are invited to book in for a free Dress for Success experience at one of two Auckland locations, during which they can try on a selection of items and walk away with a free capsule closet, including jewellery, shoes and other accessories.

Caitlin Lorigan, who is in her final year of study and will graduate with a conjoint Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws, says the opportunity to pick out stylish work wear is a huge help for many students, especially those who will soon be starting in new roles.

As the Pacific Island Law Students' Association (PILSA) secretary, Caitlin has already seen many people come to take advantage of the new student closet on campus.

"Alongside the stress of applying for internships and graduate roles also comes the stress of what to wear. Meanwhile, the cost of buying the kinds of clothes needed to suit some positions, particularly in law, can be prohibitive.

Students David Tupou, Keanu Filipo, Joeli Filipo, Keiana Arona and Maureen Volentras.

"Most law firms require professional attire daily, and it can be hard for students to know what to wear. Also, as students, we don't usually have a lot of money, and we have other expenses like rent, so being supported to pick out good quality items from good brands is a massive help."

Auckland's Dress for Success executive manager Robyn Moore says the partnership with the Faculty of Law is the first tertiary partnership the organisation has embarked on.

"We want to help young people get off to a good start in their careers and to take some of the stress out of the process.

"For university students who have been studying for years, starting in a new role and feeling pressure to dress a certain way can be tough.

"Providing this kind of support to them is a great way to help them achieve economic independence. We're excited to support these students who are preparing to get started in new roles. This is one way we can help them build confidence and equip them for the future.”

Robyn says clothing designers, shops, businesses including law firms, and the general public donate gently used and new clothes, accessories and even unopened make-up to Dress for Success.

"Appropriate clothing can make such a difference to people's confidence, and I look forward to welcoming students in and being part of their success stories."

Are you decluttering your closet this Spring? Consider donating your gently loved clothing.

Auckland Law School and Dress for Success Auckland are collaborating on a clothing donation drive this October.

Men's and women's workwear, shoes, handbags, jewellery, and new make-up are welcomed.

Final collection day: 28 October 2022

Collection point: Law School Reception

For more information, please get in touch with the Auckland Law School Career Services team at: lawstudentengagement@auckland.ac.nz

 

Media contact

Sophie Boladeras | Media adviser
M: 022 4600 388
E: sophie.boladeras@auckland.ac.nz