A summer academic conference is so challenging–the weather is brutal, but the AC is freezing, and it’s hard to find professional outfits that work for both. Here are a few ideas, plus a packing list!
The main things to consider when picking summer conference outfits are fabrics and layers.
For fabrics, natural fabrics like cotton sometimes breath better. But! Performance fabrics that are moisture wicking can also work well.
Layering is another key tip– the two outfits below include a base layer that can walk to lunch (shirt dress, tank top) and a top layer to ward of chills inside (blazer, button down).
Blazer (similar)
Flats (These! Are so! Comfy!!!)
Button down (similar, mine is so old I wore it on the job market!)
Tank top (I own 3)
Pants ($50 option!)
Another common question I get is “how do I avoid wrinkles in conference clothes??” Aside from breaking out the hotel iron at 6 AM, or bringing this spray, I recommend the magic combo: performance pants and a knit top.
Top (old, love this cut and colors!)
Honorary mention goes to pleats. I don’t know why they don’t wrinkle. They just don’t!
Top (similar–with a cool tie detail!)
Skirt (similar)
If you’re packing for a 4-day academic conference, here’s the list I suggest!
3 tops: Knit, tank top, button down
1 dress
1 blazer
Accessories: Belt, flats, earrings
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This is so incredibly helpful! I’d love to see your 2025 rendition as this conference season is heating up already! This is one of the first blogs I’ve stumbled upon that really have business casual clothes that are still cute and appropriate for an academic conference setting. Excited to see more of your posts!!