What to wear to wow at a Global Conference? Help!

[YolandeDee]

I have just heard that I have a great opportunity to attend an International global conference for the first time. I need your help as my sector usually dresses quite practically and not sure how that translates to an International government forum?

It's in a hot climate but professional setting and hoping there might be others out there with experience who can advise on this scenario? I want to look appropriate but also kind of eyecatching and stylish so not sure what level to pitch at? Sounds as though it will be long days of meetings so need to be comfortable but professional...

I have nc for this so in terms of me; am late 30s, 5'6, size 14, hourglass-ish, blonde and paleish but as much interested in advice on the kind of outfits that are acceptable as much as the specifics...

Thanks for your help, style queens / conference mavens!

Budget?

Good question!

It's 10 days and I don't really know where to start but could look up to £500ish on credit card in total (as investment pieces in the hope of future needs)?!

I think you can't go wrong with dresses in these situations, and they are very easy to dress up or down a little depending on how you find things when you get there (look at photos of previous conferences on LinkedIn etc for where you are pitching yourself).
Clear colours so you stand out a little, and I would always have at least a cap sleeve. The Winser dresses are lovely and v flattering, plus as they have stretch will look good all day

I did a John Lewis personal shopper thing last year before a huge conference, and they found me some lovely outfits that really worked

Get yourself to selfridges if close

Or a decent department store and use personal shopper

I'd love to do a personal shopper, but am in the sticks and between work and childcare I can't see it happening - hence my plea!

I was thinking the same re: dresses but unsure on the line between everyday workwear / daytime wedding guest / completely over the top!!

How would you feel about this kind of dress?

A 10 day conference, good grief!

I’d suggest if it’s a practical sort of sector, those attending are unlikely to turn up in business attire/sharp suits. In a tropical climate i’d go With day dresses or linen/lightweight trousers with smart tops. Consider shoulders/knees etc if a conservative culture. Also beware air conditioning! Indoors in the Middle East is FREEZING! Pack a cardigan and scarf/wrap!

Thank you, you are all VERY kind.

@CMOTDibbler that's a bit, ummmm, drabber than i thought but love the sleeves and can see how it's practical. Not sure about the neckline and my boobs though.

Really helpful point on having a belt and not tottering around looking like misplaced MoB tho. This is tough...

And I love what Melissa is saying but hate her necklace (and ill-fitting jacket)

As per previous posters, simple clean lines in dresses with strong block colours. No frills/sparkly bits. Add interest with jewellery and shoes (but make sure they are comfortable in case you are doing lots of networking, standing for long periods of time)

Reiss or the fold would be my go to

I second looking at the TED talks - but find some women from your sector or a sector like yours but at CEO level or Director level if you can.

Also, make sure you get a good look at the weather and the temperature before you go and take a few options - I remember arriving at a 5 day conference where I had no free time, with heavy suits and long sleeves - turned out there was a mini heatwave and I had a very uncomfortable few days.

I'm guessing the conference will be indoors I. E. Air conditioned?

Do you want to actively attract attention?

Try layers. A lighter dress or shirt with a jacket in case there's air conditioning.

Also if it's 10 days then skirts or trousers with a variety of tops can reduce your packing.

Yes, I understand it will be long days indoors in big air-conditioned conference rooms.

And yes, to be frank, I see this as an opportunity to make my mark Hopefully by what I can say / do, though wanting to back that up by catching the eye in a positive way!

www.karenmillen.com/ca/en/womens/clothing/dresses/v-neck-pencil-dress/020678.html?dwvar_020678_color=65&position=30&cgid=dresses

Right track by any stretch?

I'd avoid anything that's polyester like the Karen mullen dress, v sweary under the lights

Sweaty even!

Oops didn't realise it was polyester

As you were

Mango have got some amazing pieces in at the moment and a lot of them are very tonal, mix and matchy.
I think you could build a great 10 day capsule from there.