What to wear to a conference
Business casual in layers: a blazer over a shirt or fine knit, tailored trousers and comfortable shoes you can stand in all day. Conference halls are often cold, so bring a layer, and carry a bag that fits a laptop and a badge.
Three outfits that work
Fine knit, blazer and navy trousers
- light blue fine knit
- charcoal blazer
- navy tailored trousers
- clean leather trainers
- cross-body work bag
A fine knit under a blazer is warm in cold halls and smart enough for a networking dinner, and clean leather trainers carry you through long days.
Light blue shirt, navy blazer, chinos
- light blue shirt
- navy blazer
- beige chinos
- brown leather shoes
- slim work bag
A shirt, blazer and chinos suit sessions and receptions alike, and brown leather shoes are comfortable for standing.
Longline blazer, wide trousers, hijab
- navy longline blazer
- white long-sleeved blouse
- charcoal wide trousers
- beige hijab
- black loafers
A long blazer over wide trousers covers well, stays comfortable through sitting and standing, and works from sessions to dinner.
By weather
| Hot22° and up | A light shirt and trousers, a blazer for the cold hall and breathable shoes for the walk. |
|---|---|
| Mild10° to 21° | Shirt or knit, a blazer, and a light coat for transfers. |
| ColdBelow 10° | A warm coat for the walk between venues, and a fine knit under your blazer. |
Do and don’t
- Dress in layers; conference halls are cold
- Wear comfortable shoes you can stand in
- Carry a bag that fits a laptop, charger and water bottle
- Prepare one smarter outfit for the evening reception
- Wear new shoes on the first day
- Wear a heavy lanyard on delicate fabric
- Wear very strong perfume in a crowded hall
- Overpack; you will carry everything between rooms
Check the night before
- Check the programme for dinners and receptions and their dress codes
- Break in your shoes before the trip
- Pack a charger, power bank, notebook and business cards
- Pack a blazer or cardigan for cold rooms
- Hang the outfit to remove travel creases
Questions people ask
What is the dress code for a conference?
Mostly business casual: a blazer or jacket, shirt or fine knit and tailored trousers. Tech and start-up events can be smart casual, and finance and legal events can be more formal.
What shoes should I wear to a conference?
Comfortable leather shoes, loafers or clean leather trainers. You will stand and walk for much of the day.
What should I wear to the conference dinner?
The same outfit with a smarter element, such as a fresh shirt, a silk top or a tie. Check the programme for a specified dress code.
Should I wear a blazer to a conference?
Usually yes. It adds structure, has pockets for cards and keeps you warm in cold halls.
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