Accepted Students Reception: Attire?

[Gulielmus]

So I've been invited to an accepted students reception at the school I'll probably be attending (I haven't made an official decision yet). It's described as an opportunity to "meet the dean, faculty, current students, and alumni." I assume this means it will have an aspect of formality to it.

Does anyone know what a male should wear to this sort of thing? Suit and tie? Suit, no tie? Sport coat? Obviously I'd like to make a good impression without being the odd guy out.

Thanks!

Edited March 28, 2014 by Gulielmus

[TakeruK]

I think the best thing is to ask the department! I've seen events like this go both ways!

[aphdapplicant]

Dress in suit. Remove jacket & tie if too formal.

[TakeruK]

Dress in suit. Remove jacket & tie if too formal.

 

I'd say this is usually good advice because it's really rare that a dress shirt + slacks will be way too formal that you'd stand out in a negative way. But it can still be more formal than everyone else, especially if the event is happening during or right after work hours. For example, my current program has an accepted students reception dinner at the end of the first accepted students visit day and the dinner is with profs, current students, and other accepted students. Because it's just at the end of our workday, all of the profs and students wear what they normally wear to work, so in this case, a dress shirt even without jacket and tie would be overdressed! As I said, for most people, being slightly overdressed like this is no big deal but if you are really self conscious about your dress, then it would be best to ask ahead of time