DECA Event Dress Code

“You can have anything you want in life if you dress for it.”

Edith Head

Dresses and skirts are no longer allowed.

Please see the graphics below for a simplified version of DECA professional dress and examples. There are additional details below.

How To Fit A DECA Blazer

Please use this chart when you complete your application.

Here are some tips:

  • Have someone else measure you with a soft measuring tape. If you do not have one, use string and measure the string with a regular measuring tape or yardstick.

  • Always make sure the tape is level.

  • Make sure the tape is not too tight. You should be able to breath. Can you slip a couple of fingers in between your body and the tape? If not, you need to loosen it a bit.

  • When in doubt, it is best to best to go down a size if you fall between two because DECA specifies they run slightly large. You should stick closest to your bust/chest measurement with allowances for your hips and waist.

  • Your waist is the smallest part of your body - where you bend. Your hips are approximately nine inches below and the widest point of your body.

  • When measuring for a sleeve, measure from the top-center of the back of your neck to the end of your shoulder. Then, take the tape down the length of the arm to just below the wrist bone.

Please see below for additional sizing charts.

ICDC Professional / Official

You must wear a necktie, ascot, scarf, and/or vest.

Silk scarves are suggested. DECA also sells some attractive scarves and neckties.

Examples are at the bottom of the page.

Texas DECA Professional / Official

Please note the attention to detail they have both taken. They both look professional and confident.

They are dressed perfectly for state and district competition.

Texas DECA Professional / Official

Here is a well-dressed group from IHS that may look familiar to some of you. They all advanced to state.

DECA Business Casual & Smart Casual

The first skirt is a little short. It should cover the knees better; however, they are all within school dress code. Monday through Wednesday are smart casual and Thursday and Friday are business casual.

DECA Business Casual & Smart Casual

This is a great mixture of both. He is wearing business casual on Monday, Thursday, and Friday. The model is casual Tuesday (untucked shirt) and Wednesday (appear to be jeans).

WARNING

 
 

If you do not follow the dress code, you may be left behind and not allowed on the bus or plane by your Advisor. Other consequences could include not being allowed to compete, vote (if you are a Delegate), accept your award on stage, and/or being charged fees.

The guidance above refers to all competitive, mock comp, and off-campus events unless otherwise advised. The dress code may be amended. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your Advisor.

Here are some additional examples of some well-dressed DECA members.