Dress Code for Economic Conferences: What to Wear and What to Avoid

While you may be used to the daily routine of graduate school or teaching, presenting at a conference, or even just attending one, can be a whole different activity. The preparatory checklist is long enough as it is, without having the added conundrum of worrying about your appearance. If you’re in business school, perhaps you’re used to ironing your button-down shirt and slacks every day, but most academics cringe when they hear the term 'business casual'. But fear not. We, the gracious folks at INOMCS, are here to help.

Having previously helped thousands of INOMICS users find the right economics conference for them, it seemed only polite to give some general guidelines about what’s appropriate to wear once there - we know you economists are a particular bunch! Hopefully this advice will allow you to check one small thing off your (very long) checklist, and allow you to focus on the more important aspects of attending an academic conference: the networking, presenting, and possibly - fingers crossed - even having fun! So, let's get serious.

Check out our conference listings

The basics

It’s quite likely that you’ll be traveling prior to the conference and might not have access to an iron. This one should keep in mind. Moreover, remember to pack clothes that work for both standing and sitting (there will be a lot of both, economists really can talk) and won’t be completely wrinkled after a few hours. With this in mind, avoiding linen is probably a good idea, unless, perhaps, your conference is taking place on a tropical island. In which case, lucky you! Bringing some back-up options is always a good idea in case one of your items of clothing gets a wee bit dirty or, god forbid, you have an accident. Wearing dark colours is normally a good idea as they are universally flattering and hide wrinkles and spillages well. Finally, pack some layers; you might be in a room with an air conditioner for one talk and in a veritable sauna the next, and you don't want to be distracted by being too hot or too cold.

Smart is better than casual

Broadly speaking, it’s always better to dress up rather than down. While “business wear” can mean a full suit for some folks and jeans and a nice top for others, it’s better to be the only guy with a tie than the only one without. No matter what time of year, shorts are never a good choice, as they come across as too casual.

For women, skirts and dresses are fine, but nothing too tight or short, as this can seem unprofessional. A nice blazer or scarf can dress up a plain outfit. Be aware of what you’re wearing on top though – as a general rule you shouldn’t show any cleavage, as it can be distracting or even offensive, and it’s better just to err on the conservative side.

Dressing for presenting

If you’re presenting for the first time, remember that your presence can be nearly as important as your presentation. In order to seem professional and poised, avoid large jewellery or busy prints, and make sure your hair is not hiding your face. Women can wear heels, but make sure you’re comfortable walking and standing for an extended period of time.

Aside from this, whatever you're wearing you should try and be as confident as possible when presenting. Squaring your shoulders, standing straight and having your legs at shoulder width apart is a body position that suggests confidence and authority. Doing something like this makes you look assured and assertive, which is just as important as looking smart. Do some practice runs with some economists friends in the days leading up to build up confidence. It's always a good idea.

Simply ask

Finally, if you’re unsure of the basic dress code for a conference, don’t be afraid to ask. Some disciplines are generally more formal than others (finance versus computer programming, for instance), so generalities only go so far. The conference organisers should provide you with guidelines, but it’s perfectly fair to bring it up if it’s unclear.

Moreover, don’t feel pressured to completely let go of your personality in favour of a professional wardrobe. As long as you feel comfortable, you’re more likely to come across as confident. Interpret our suggestions as they make sense for you, and just remember to bring a few extra options for surprise occasions like extra dinners, unexpected weather changes or other unforeseen circumstances. Go on. Knock 'em dead.