What popular clothing stores will hire sixteen year olds? For example: Charlotte Russe, Forever 21, Old Navy?

• I'm about to turn 15, and I realize that nobody will hire 15 year olds, but just so I'm prepared when I turn 16. I would really like to work at a retail store but earn more ...show more

• Answer:

  I will let you in on a little secret: most of these places that say they only hire at 18 want an 18 year old either because they are out of high school and have more time to dedicate to work, or they really will hire at 16 but they want a mature 16 year old that will be dedicated to the job and work hard. If you go to school, then chances are you are only available to work during the evenings and on weekends, whereas the store may be hiring for day-time positions. If they are hiring for night and weekend hours, then if you come off professionally and mature whe you ask for an application, they may waver their "18 and up rule" and let you apply. With some stores, its 18 and up period with not exceptions because of availability. Try any of the retail stores like Abercrombie, Hollister, Anchor Blue, Aeropostale, Old Navy.....just make sure that you look and act maturely and professionally because first impressions (even when you ask for an application) are very important. I wouldn't bother asking at what age they hire, just ask for the application first, and if they ask you your age, then you should be honest. Some places may not hire if you are under 16 years of age because of state labor laws (where its illegal to hire anyone under a certain age). If that's the case with the state in which you live, try babysitting for neighbors and family friends--that's what I did as a first job.