Deciding what to wear to a summer conference can be difficult. Women’s conference outfits can vary widely (are they casual? business??) and it’s even harder to shop for hot weather business clothes. Today, I am picking out female conference attire that is both cool (temperature-wise) and cool (looks-wise) if you don’t like traditional business clothes.
I’ve written about summer academic conference clothing before, and most of my recommendations were fairly straightforward women’s business casual clothes. But this year, I wanted to let myself get a bit creative. These picks are probably best for you if you’re in a creative field, attend casual conferences, or just want something a bit more fun as you decide what to wear to a summer conference.
Summer conference tops
I tried to pick lighter colors and fabrics that could go from inside the conference hotel (always freezing) to walking to lunch. I love a short-sleeved sweater for this occasion!
Tie sweater (Under $20 alternative)
Conference pants and skirts
I love a light skirt or pair of trousers at a summer conference! These are four that have been hanging out in my cart. These Everlane linen pants look like theeee perfect cut, but I’ve also been pining for a pair of gingham pants for a season, so during this weekend’s Madewell sale I may pull the trigger.
Summer work dresses
The only answer if your conference involves very hot weather or humidity. Fortunately, there are a ton of chic dresses out there right now. I say the more billowy the better.
Belted dress (I love the weird tie detail here)
Belted linen dress (runs large, I would size down one)
Budget pick (I love the orangey color, I would order in a tall size for a bit more length!)
Cool girl conference accessories
I might be using my summer academic conference as an excuse to check out some cute summer shoes–I am loving all the woven options right now. I think these are an easy way to accessorize your year-round conference wear in a new way!
Earrings (in first collage!)
I hope these are some fun options that kickstart your ideas for what to wear to a summer conference in 2025! I’ll be back later this week with outfit ideas to go with the list!
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