At the university and during seminars
Participants are reminded that the dress code at Indonesian universities is quite strict:
For women:
- Smart pants and smart collared tops/ shirts are acceptable.
- In general, short sleeves are okay at the university. However, as an indication, rarely will you see Indonesian women wearing a sleeveless top or short dress.
- Above all, make sure your clothes are light as Indonesia is hot.
- Shoes: closed-toe shoes or nice sandals are probably your best bet because of the heat. Also, tucking a pashmina or a lightweight scarf in your bag is a good trick for when you need to cover your arms or shoulders at more conservative venues. You can buy these very cheaply (around $5 – $10) in Yogyakarta/Jakarta if you don’t have one already.
- Long pants or jeans; three-quarter pants; shirts/blouses (non-see-through); collared shirts; closed shoes or sneakers; sandals with strap at the back. Skirts are okay but below the knee will attract less attention. Avoid showing mid-riff, bare shoulders or too much neckline.
For men:
- Shorts and T-shirts are not acceptable at the university – please wear long pants at all times, and closed-toe shoes (no sandals).
- A short- or long-sleeved collared shirt will do the trick at most placements.
Birkenstocks (and similar branded sandals) are not allowed at universities unless they have straps at the back.