Work conference wear?

[Leafytrees]

Hoping for some wise advice.

I've got a big work conference this week. I feel a bit nervous so want to look good to feel confident. I'm thinking of wearing a pencil skirt and satin blouse. Do you think I can get away with a chunky sandal? Really don't fancy heels but my workplace is quite formal. It's a shame as things were a lot more casual during the pandemic.

Or any other suggestions? Pics of successful/suitable outfits very welcome!

Are they as formal with their conferences? Ours were more relaxed than normal work.
OH had conferences, professional and work. For work ones he even attended in his slippers and cardigan (fashion icon) as it was in the hotel he was staying in, maybeca bit informal.

I was in a conference all last week. It was very hot, which probably made people dress more casually than they might have otherwise.

Most men were wearing chinos and shirts or polo shirts. Some (mostly speakers) were wearing suits (no ties). Some were wearing shorts. Women were wearing either summer dresses or trousers. I wore ankle grazer trousers with a fitted t-shirt or a shirt dress, with ballet flats. I didn't see anyone in heels all week.

Oh ballet flats could definitely work, although I don't have any any more and don't want to spend just for this. Unfortunately the conferences are traditionally even more formal than the office. It's quite old fashioned really!

They had ballet flats in Sainsbury's last week cheap, perfectly good to look at certainly would last for a week