What to wear to a networking event
Networking events are usually long, crowded and spent standing up, often straight after work. The right outfit matches the dress code and gets you through the evening comfortably. Here’s how to plan one.
Updated · By the AuraTip team
1. Read the invitation and the venue
Check the invitation for a dress code first. If there isn’t one, the venue and time are the next best clue:
| Setting | Likely dress level |
|---|---|
| Breakfast or conference session | Business casual, often the same as a workday |
| After-work drinks in a bar | Smart casual; your work outfit with one change usually works |
| Evening reception or awards | Business formal or cocktail, as stated on the invitation |
| Industry meetup (tech, creative) | Casual to smart casual |
If you can’t tell, look at photos from the organiser’s previous events, or ask them. Aiming one step above what you expect is the usual safe choice.
2. Plan for standing, carrying and moving
- Shoes you can stand in for two or three hours. This matters more than anything else on the list.
- Somewhere for your phone and cards. Pockets, or a small bag with a strap so your hands stay free for a drink and handshakes.
- A clip-friendly top layer. Name badges clip onto lapels, collars and plackets. Fine knits and silk can snag.
- Layers for warm rooms. Crowded venues heat up. A blazer or cardigan you can take off is easier than a heavy jumper.
- Nothing that needs constant adjusting, like slipping straps or shoes you’re still breaking in.
3. Outfit options by dress level
Business casual
Tailored trousers or a midi skirt, a shirt or fine knit, and loafers or low boots. Add a blazer if the room is likely to be formal.
Smart casual after work
Keep your work trousers or skirt and change one piece: a knit instead of a shirt, or ankle boots instead of office shoes. The look pictured, a soft knit with a satin midi skirt and suede boots, is one example.
Evening reception
Follow the invitation. Without a stated code, a dark suit or a simple dress with a smart layer is the usual choice.
Casual meetups
Dark jeans or chinos, a clean overshirt or knit, and trainers in good condition.
4. The night before
- Try the whole outfit on, including shoes, and sit, stand and walk in it.
- Check the weather and your route. Will you be walking between the office and the venue?
- Pack the small things: cards, a charger, and anything you’ll need if you’re coming straight from work.
Plan it with AuraTip
Describe the event, such as “industry drinks after work, standing for a few hours”, and AuraTip builds outfits at the right dress level from what you already own, adding only the missing pieces within your budget. For everyday office wear, see smart casual office outfits.
Plan your own version
Tell AuraTip the occasion, your budget and your sizes. It builds complete outfits, explains each choice and starts from what you already own. Free to use.