International conference - what do I wear?

[onlymyselftoanswerto1]

Sorry, this should probably be in fashion or somewhere but I thought I'd ask here. I'm presenting a paper at the European DV conference in Iceland in September and I don't know what to wear.

I've been to other conferences in the uk and it's been a real mix of smart casual and very casual - feels like anything goes - just wondering if international conferences are the same or more formal? And also the conference dinner? I only have hand luggage so have to travel very light for 4 days. Any help would be much appreciated (worrying about what to wear is taking my mind off actually presenting my research 🤣🙈)

i find European conferences to be more casual than British ones. I always go smart cas - I usually wear smart ish trousers, a jumper and converse.

the dinner is tricky as each conference has its own traditions. Can you find any photos (the conference website or twitter) of the dinner last year?

@bge thank you that's helpful! I had a look - annoyingly their website changes with location so photos are few and far between and the last in-person conference was pre covid as it's only every other year- but it seems fairly casual. I'll go for smart-casual and bring something a bit smarter for the dinner. It'll have to work with my docs as it'll be them or hiking boots 😄
Suppose I'd better write the paper now and get in with it!!

I'd go with a smart cotton or linen jacket and chinos or plain skirt. DMs or whatever is most comfortable for you (best for all that standing around in coffee breaks, and walking long corridors between 10-person parallel sessions ).

A smarter top for the evening and some funky jewellery is enough to cover most bases for dinner.

Great thank you @frustratedacademic ! I was looking at my wardrobe last night and kind of thinking skinny black jeans or chinos with a top and blazer/jacket. My DMs are my comfort blanket so I'll definitely be wearing those. They are very long days so comfortable boots are definitely a must.

That sounds fine. Is their a conference outing? In Iceland that is likely to need a warm jumper, jacket and good shoes, or maybe even a swimsuit! I normally wear jeans or a dress for science conferences, up to a casual-ish suit if there will be a lot of industry reps at more business focused conferences. I normally ask my colleagues if it's a new conference for me. It's actually easier to ask the men because they only have 3 options which you can easily translate: jeans, trousers & shirt or suit & tie.

Thanks @StamppotAndGravy haven't heard that there'll be an outing but I like to hike and see places so I'll be well kitted out for the outdoors - have never been to Iceland so very excited to explore it a wee bit! Good idea about asking colleagues, I'll ask my supervisor what she thinks!