drifter

Morning,

Off to a big environmental / engineering conference next week in the south, and wondering what's acceptable get-up at this kind of thing?

I've done plenty of more academic conferences before, where everyone wears fleece (sandals and beard optional) but this one's very industry / commerce focussed. Thinking khakis / linen trous and polo shirt. It'll be too warm for fleece, anyway. I'll be on a booth and wandering round as well, not presenting this time...

Do I even bother packing the suit?

lisa67

My OH does this sort of thing and it's usually Kahkis and polo shirt...but you never know...you might get asked to a dinner where a suit is needed...my advice is to pack it...better safe than sorry, unless of course you have time to go out and buy a suit if it's needed.

NC Penguin

Where in the South? Climate in the Southern states varies in degrees of humidity.

One tip though: dress in layers 'cos there'll be air condition indoors and if you should step outside, you'll probably be blasted with heat.

elfman

I'd say no - I've been to environmental/engineering conferences (was at one in Reno, NV last week) and it's khakis/polo shirts for about 95% of the male participants (yes, there are a few women at engineering conferences) even those who are presenting. Different story if you're the keynote speaker or on the top table, getting an award etc.

drifter

It's on the coast in texas. More humid than hot, probably. At least that's the impression I get from weatherunderground.

Well, as I'm not sitting on the top table, I'll leave the suit at home. I suppose I could always take a blazer...