National Youth Correspondents will be representing their schools and states at the Washington Journalism and Media Conference (WJMC). During the Conference, students will be attending events at venues in Washington, D.C. that warrant professional attire. Correspondents are expected to dress according to the guidelines below. Correspondents who do not meet the dress code standard will be asked to change prior to the day’s activities. Repeated violations of the dress code are considered grounds for dismissal from the program.
Please note that during the Conference most Correspondents are asked to introduce, thank or ask questions of our speakers and distinguished guests. When choosing clothing for the conference in professional attire, ask yourself, “Would I feel comfortable addressing a potential employer in this outfit?” Read the guidelines carefully, and feel free to contact our office with questions.
Conference t-shirt for day/ Professional attire for evening
Relaxed professional attire
Professional attire
Professional attire for day/ Semi-formal for evening
Professional attire is polished, comfortable, and appropriate for a formal setting. Acceptable options include suits, dresses and skirts of mid-thigh length or longer, dress slacks, blouses, button-down shirts, and sweaters. Sleeveless tops should be paired with a blazer or sweater. Layers are encouraged, as D.C. buildings can be chilly in summer. Opt for professional yet comfortable footwear, such as flats, loafers, or dress shoes, suitable for extensive walking.
Professional dress does not include casual items like denim, cargo pants, shorts, athleisure, short dresses and skirts, plunging necklines, t-shirts, tank tops, flip-flops, crocs, and sneakers.
Relaxed professional attire maintains a polished look while allowing for more comfort. Acceptable options include dresses or skirts of mid-thigh length or longer, khaki and chino pants, dress slacks, collared shirts, polos, blouses, and sweaters. Jackets and ties are not required and all tops must be of an appropriate length.
Avoid casual items like denim, cargo pants, shorts, athleisure, short dresses or skirts, plunging necklines, t-shirts, and tank tops. Footwear should be stylish and practical, such as loafers, dress shoes, or dressy sandals. Sneakers, flip-flops, crocs, and casual styles are not appropriate for a relaxed professional look.
Casual attire should be comfortable yet presentable. Jeans, shorts, t-shirts, sneakers, and flip flops are acceptable as long as they are neat in appearance and of appropriate length.
Athletic shorts and leggings should be avoided. Clothing should align with the Code of Conduct, and offensive or inappropriate attire will not be permitted.
Semi-formal attire is encouraged for the Gala on Friday evening. Acceptable options include cocktail dresses of appropriate length and suits with a tie. Jackets are not required. Semi-formal attire should remain tasteful—avoid overly revealing styles, bare midriffs, or plunging necklines or backs. Spaghetti straps, as well as strapless and sleeveless styles, are acceptable as long as they maintain an appropriate appearance for the event.
We highly recommend packing at least one day’s worth of clothing and toiletries in a carry-on. Students are responsible for carrying their own luggage, so packing light or using a wheeled bag is ideal. If flying, check your airline’s carry-on and baggage rules in advance.
- Photo ID
- Spending money for one lunch and souvenirs
- Backpack or bag
- Compact umbrella
- Comfortable shoes and band-aids for blisters
- All toiletries and necessary medications
- Optional: Laptop and charger
- Optional: Extra blanket and towel