Deciding what to wear to a tech conference can be confusing, especially if you’ve never been to one before. The general rule is to dress smart casual or business casual. The tech industry tends to be a bit more casual compared to other types of fields of business. Therefore, you’ll want to choose an outfit that is relaxed but also professional.

If you’re still unsure what is appropriate, don’t worry! We’ve put together a list of acceptable clothing items for men and women. Go ahead and use the following suggestions to put together an outfit that fits your own personal style.

What to Wear to a Tech Conference

Women

Blazer

A blazer is a simple yet effective way to look more professional in any setting. If you want to dress up, you can always pair it with slacks for a more sophisticated look. However, a blazer can also be worn with jeans for a more relaxed and casual vibe too.

We particularly like this blazer. Neutral colors like white or gray or navy blue will always be timeless. Or you can opt for something more eye-catching like pine green or marine blue (both work well with light-colored slacks).

If the conference is a bit more casual, opt for one that can easily be dressed down!

Don’t feel obligated to match your blazer with your slacks. A contrasting look is more trendy and fitting for an event like a tech conference!

Wide Leg Pants

Wide leg pants take keep you comfortable while still being not-too-casual for a tech conference. Loose and flowy, they’re elegant without being distracting, and they’ll make you feel like you command the room. We prefer wearing neutral colors for these. That way, your shirt can be a fun color or pattern, such as florals or paisley. That way, your outfit breaks the mold and doesn’t look overly “business-y”.

Ankle Pants

Not a fan of the wide leg trends? Having a pair of ankle pants provides you with a versatile conference staple. Dressed these pants up or down, and choose between black or yellow. The black offers you more flexibility in terms of tops and shoes you can wear, but the yellow creates a more memorable outfit.

And don’t forget your suitcase or briefcase if you’re traveling! Here are a couple of top-rated bags to help you stay organized at the conference.

Midi Skirt

Not a fan of wearing pants? Just want to shake it up a bit?Reach for a midi skirt! These longer bottoms are looser, allowing you more comfort. In particular, this one is high-waisted, accentuating your figure more!

Men

Cargo Pants

Cargo pants are loose enough to be comfortable and sleek enough to look professional! Wider around the legs and hips and slightly skinnier around the ankles, they’re the perfect combination of modern and chic. So, they’ll likely suit your conference, no matter what type you’re going to!

Blazer

Even at a business casual conference, you might want to look a little more business than casual! This lightweight blazer keeps you warm during the cooler fall weather while not being so thick that you can’t stand the heat.

Looking for something a little warmer? Opt for a wool blend.

Business Casual Shirts

What to wear to a tech conference underneath your blazer? Polos and collared shirts tend to make a subtle-yet-classy statement. For warmer weather, the Men’s Cockpit Polo Shirt strikes the right balance between golf course casual and work-ready.

Expecting some cooler weather? Put on a Men’s Fleece Collared Shirt.

If you want to go super casual, wear this elegant ribbed t-shirt. Its cream hue goes with most of the rest of your outfits, and its ribs look almost pleated, making it eye-catching.

Button Down

This button down serves as the ultimate versatile piece! Instead of being stiff and uncomfortable, its fabric is softer, lending it a more casual look while not being too out-of-place when you’re giving a presentation.

Deciding what to wear to a tech conference is a lot easier than other industry events. Tech conferences tend to be more casual, so the line between comfort and professionalism is less strict. At the end of the day, wear what makes you feel the most comfortable and it will likely be fine!