Big work thing, desperately need outfit help!

[ZydecoLaydee]

I am going to Sydney next week to present at a conference, and I have no idea what to wear! I’ve just returned from maternity leave and my confidence is at an all time low. I’ve tried and can't fit into any of my pre-baby clothes, so I need something new. I’m 5’5”, size 12 top, size 10 bottom (so a shift dress would look ridiculous). My outfit needs to be professional, but not boring (according to the meeting planner), and I need some way to attach a radio microphone at my waist. Please help me!

I did a huge work presentation in October, and after a personal styling visit to John Lewis (absolutely amazing), I ended up with a Jigsaw silk front top and a Reiss skirt which looks much better in RL and is v comfortable.

It was different, looked great on the big screens, and I had lots of compliments from random people who I didn't know on how nice I looked - but was also told that I looked v professional and in charge

No idea how to do links, but have a look at Cos. They have lovely wool culottes, which could look good with a silk blouse and heels/boots.

I love that skirt CMot!

I am a scruff so can’t help with clothes much, but please remember Australia is having its worst ever heatwave at the moment, lovely as things like wool culottes & boots might be you will not want to wear them in Oz

would some trousers and a top like this? good luck!

Oh, haha, totally overlooked the Australia part!

I tried and can’t get a John Lewis appointment in time! Argh!

It’s the Australia part that is really throwing me (should have emphasised that a bit more) I have some wintery stuff, but nothing for that kind of weather! Can I go with something sleeveless?

Silk blouse tucked into wide leg culottes or a full skirted skirt.
Nothing synthetic- you’ll be hot! Although yhrrr will be air con, I’m sure

I wouldn't usually do a presentation in sleeveless as I wave my hands around a lot when I talk, and it can look an odd balance behind a podium imo.

Am in the same boat of trying to work out what to wear for a work trip to Oz btw - am off Feb 11th for two conferences and 5 customer visits which is going to be a whirlwind

What’s your budget? The fold or reiss would be my go to for that- lots in the sale at the moment too

Is it likely to have air con? Might need to factor that in

What about a cotton shirt dress boden. Mike could go on belt. It is a nod to business dress but also suitable for a height wave.

Budget £300 ish. I think sleeveless probably is a bad idea, we also have to do ‘dynamic’ presenting which means wandering up and down a la Steve Jobs, so I do move a bit and I don’t want to be noticed for my wobbly arms! Not too worried about aircon as I generally run quite hot.

I do like that Boden dress, but I don’t think it is smart enough. I’m thinking top/blouse and skirt, I like quite clean lines in tops as i’m quite top heavy, I’m so picky which isn’t helping...

This top is simple yet stunning.

Way below budget, but I do like this:

Or this...

I did a big presentation in India and although it was 40+ degrees outside it was very cold inside due to air con blasting.

I like a plain skirt with a good jacket, Hobbs do some good ones

Here's an example, with a comfy skirt and good shoes it looks confident and professional

www.hobbs.co.uk/product/display?productID=0218-4677-9083L01&productvarid=0218-4677-9083L01-MULTI-12&refpage=coats-jackets

www.asos.com/prd/8606349?acquisitionsource=pasteboard

As someone who lives in Australia, all the "professional womenswear" I see at conferences etc tends to be sleeveless linen shift dress type things, or trousers (any length or style from cropped culottes to Palazzo pants to skinny 7/8 trousers) with a loose silk/chiffon blouse. I can't make any suggestions for you, cos all my taste is in my mouth, but I think if you felt comfortable in something like that you'd be fine. Something I've always been aware of when presenting (from a personal point of view) is that I actually only notice what people are wearing if they seem uncomfortable (fidgeting with hems or tugging straps etc) so find something you feel good in.
Also, layers. (to put on inside!) I find the Aircon here ludicrous and will often have a cami on outside, with a blouse and a jacket to put on inside....