Looking for conference outfits for women in STEM? Here are 6 scenarios that will come up at a beach conference and how to dress for them, with links to pieces I brought (or similar ones)!
1. Swimming with your entire lab, including your PI
What to wear: classy one piece swimsuit + cute button down top + shorts + beach shoes
This is cute and beach appropriate but still wearing more than just a bathing suit in case you don’t want to do that around your literal boss…
Other options:
- a high-coverage bikini + coverup dress + sandals
- a one piece + flowy linen pants + flip flops
- a workout set as a bathing suit + slides
2. First day of the conference
What to wear: linen pants + lightweight business casual top + sneakers/flats
This is professional but not overboard, so you can blend in while you figure out the dress code and adjust your outfits for the rest of the conference!
Other options:
- drapey top + slacks + flats
- sleeveless knee-length dress + small heels
- black sleeveless blouse + khaki skirt + sandals
3. Presenting your work
What to wear: your best professional outfit that you feel like a badass in (mine was this jumpsuit I thrifted)!
Confidence is the most important part of presenting, so let your outfit inspire you! Just make sure to have a sweater in case it gets cold and comfortable shoes (comfy heels encouraged!), because poster sessions can be 4 hours of standing…
4. Exploring the city on your own/with friends
What to wear: whatever the heck you want!
This is your time outside of the conference so you don’t get information overload! You do not need to dress professionally, wear what you normally would.
5. The fancy dinner/happy hour with multiple leaders in the field
What to wear: nice professional dress + cute slingback heels
You will be networking and should look put together and confident– you might even be sitting next to your future PI!
Other options:
- blouse + well-fitting slacks + flats/heels
- jumpsuit + flats/heels
6. The trip there and back
What to wear: loose athletic pants + plain t-shirt + jean jacket + sneakers
You don’t need your entire lab to see you all disheveled!
Other options:
- Stretchy jeans + t-shirt + sweatshirt + sneakers
- Matching loungewear set + sneakers
Thanks for going to the beach with me🤍