What to Wear to a Work or Business Conference

Attending a business conference or work event like Digital Women Live can be daunting, especially when it comes to choosing what to wear. You want to make a good impression and look professional, but you also want to be comfortable and true to your personal style. Fortunately, we’ve got you covered with some tips on what to wear and what to consider when choosing your outfit.

The Problem:

It can be difficult to know what to wear to a business conference or work event, especially if you’re not sure what the dress code is. You might be worried about being over or under-dressed, or you might feel unsure about what will make you look professional while still feeling comfortable and being true to your own style or personal brand. 

The Solution:

The key to dressing for a business conference or work event is to strike a balance between professionalism and comfort. You want to look your best, but you also want to be able to focus on the conference or event without being distracted by uncomfortable clothing. With the right outfit, you can feel confident and comfortable while making a great impression.

Here are some tips and suggestions on what to wear to your next conference or work event: 

Blazer: A tailored blazer is a must-have for any business conference or work event. Look for a fit that flatters your body type and exudes professionalism. You can pair it with tailored trousers or a skirt. Ted Baker has some great options to choose from, like Fritta a Longline Single Breasted Blazer from Ted Baker – This blazer stands apart from the rest with its clean and simple design, bringing a sense of modern style to an otherwise classic item. Crafted from a soft cotton blend, it features a longline cut, a single button fastening and peaked lapel. Perfect for smart occasions, this versatile piece lends any outfit that extra edge.

Dress: If you prefer a dress, look for a timeless design that is both comfortable and flattering. A dress can make you feel confident and powerful. Flaunt your figure in Lounia – Fluted Sleeve Knitted Bodycon Midi, crafted from a soft knitted cotton and with short fluted sleeves and a split hem, you won’t want to take off this wardrobe essential. 

Trousers: Wearing comfortable trousers is a must at conferences, you’ll sit and stand and do it all over again, several times. Eliziie Wide Leg Trousers With Pleat Detail – Give your everyday look an instant boost, featuring a belt and pleat details to the front, these trousers lengthen the legs with their high rise and floaty silhouette. Wear boots and a cardigan for a chilled  daytime look and amp it up for the evening conference drinks with kitten heels and a blouse.

Shirt/blouse: Blouses & Shirts have always been a workwear staple and are great for layering under jumpers or blazers for a smart look Ted Baker’s Heiydii High Neck Satin Butterfly Print Blouse will help you not only look smart and business like but will also you’ll be seen and admired in this beautiful blouse. Featuring a kaleidoscope butterfly print and a bold silhouette with a high neck and cut-outs, this flattering number will see you through from all day  conference to networking at night.

Shoes: Comfort is key when attending a conference or work event, so opt for shoes that are both stylish and comfortable. You’ll likely be walking and standing for long periods, so avoid heels that are too high or uncomfortable. Instead, go for a comfortable pair of flats, loafers, or low heels like Alysse Leather Court Shoes Sleek and sophisticated, Alysee will take you from office to cocktail bar with minimal fuss. This classic court is crafted from smooth, high quality leather, with a flattering point toe and 85mm stiletto heel. Team yours with a classic silk shift dress and statement necklace for elegant day-to-night style.

Accessories: Don’t forget to accessorize! A statement bag or piece of jewelry can help you stand out from the crowd. Belux, Imitation Croc Large Backpack is a combination of imitation crocodile leather and shiny hardware giving this bag an eclectic feel. The single zip fastening ensures ease of use while the top handle and shoulder straps allow you to switch between carrying options. Perfect for carrying essentials like your laptop or iPad, notebooks and pens.

Layers: Conference centers can be chilly, so it’s a good idea to bring a jacket or cardigan. A cardigan is an excellent choice as it is comfortable and can be easily removed if you get too hot. Haniha Crew Neck Frill Detail Cardigan features a frill detail and crystal encrusted buttons to add a bit of sparkle to your conference look. With its textured knit, crew neck and cotton and wool blend, this is the comfiest fashion-forward piece you could have in your wardrobe.

Personal style: It’s essential to remain true to your personal style while still maintaining a professional appearance. You can add a pop of color, a fun print, or statement accessories. Don’t be afraid to show off your personal style, as it can help you stand out from the crowd and feel more confident. We love the Ayahlin Puffer Quilted Leather Crossbody Bag in Green, Made of super-soft leather, this sleek shoulder bag features both a top handle and a chain strap for maximum carryability, with a handy internal zip pocket to keep those small-but-crucial things organized. A modern classic. This bag will give your look a pop of colour and you’ll stand out in the conference crowd.

Ted Baker Business Unusual Campaign



Ted Baker has launched a new campaign, called “Business Unusual”, that “redefines what success looks like and reshapes what workwear means”. According to the brand, the campaign features a collection of “creatives, multi-hyphenates, and work-from-anywhere entrepreneurs. From laptops in coffee shops to pop-up boutiques, or working on the move, workwear has been redefined in our modern climate”. The campaign explores the lives of “photographers, brewers, and plant experts”. The campaign features British menswear stylist Benedict Browne, Australian founder of the Lune bakery and former Formula 1 aerodynamicist Kate Reid, and American actress, skateboarder, visual artist, and DJ, Dede Lovelace.

When it comes to workwear, Reid “often reaches for feminine yet versatile pieces that complement the ebbs and flows of an unpredictable day”. Lovelace’s wardrobe “is complete with key staples” including smart, modern suiting and relaxed pieces.

The “Business Unusual” campaign seeks to “get business done differently” and explores the lives of professionals who “have made a living from doing things differently”.

Win £500 to spend at Ted Baker 

And, thanks to a partnership between Digital Women and Ted Baker, one lucky Digital Women has the chance to win a £500 voucher to spend at Ted Baker on your next work look. To enter the competition, all you need to do is provide your name, email, and social handle, and the winner will be chosen at random and announced at Digital Women Live in March. Enter NOW

So, whether you’re a freelancer, a business owner, or working in digital industries, getting creative with your outfit can help you stand out, blend in, or simply be comfortable and professional so you can concentrate on learning and networking with other likeminded business owners. Shop the Ted Baker Business Unusual edit and create the perfect conference outfit + good luck with the competition! 



Latest Features



Related Articles

40 Digital Women to Watch in 2020

This isn’t a list of Digital Marketers or the Most Influential in People in Digital. This is a list to showcase women who have been…

Work from home? How to Dress Confidently for Your Next Meeting or Away Day

Are you a digital woman who frequently works from home, but occasionally has to attend meetings or events? Do you find it difficult to figure…

Shortlist: Community Leader of the The Year – Digital Women Awards

The Digital Women Community Leader of the The Year Award recognises and celebrates women who are leading communities. This award acknowledges women whose service and…

17 Amazing Digital Entrepreneurs!

The Digital Women Awards takes place every year to celebrate the work women are doing through digital. The Digital Women Entrepreneur of The Year Award…

Shortlist: Role Model of the Year – Digital Women Awards

The Digital Women Role Model of the Year recognises and celebrates women who are positive and confident in themselves. lifting others up. A person who is doing…

Shortlist: Digital Entrepreneur – Digital Women Awards

The Digital Women Entrepreneur of The Year Award recognises and celebrates women who are are operating a business or businesses, taking on greater than normal…

8 Brilliant Podcasts Produced and Hosted by Women

The Digital Women Awards takes place every year to celebrate the work women are doing through digital. Digital Women’s Podcast of the Year award recognises…

12 Inspiring Role Models!

The Digital Women Awards takes place every year to celebrate the work women are doing through digital. The Digital Women Role Model of the Year…

5 Things you can do to help you get the job (or client) of your dreams

In Part One of our Digital Careers Special Report, we explored the ways that digital marketing can offer a rewarding, energising and flexible career for…

How to Use Instagram Live for Business

Instagram Live is a great way to stay connected with your customers, but one which few businesses are using to its fullest potential. Luckily, it’s…