Happy Friday! TGIF!

Attending a conference or planning to attend one? Conferences are one of those sometimes tricky work events to attend, as they do not take place in your usual work digs, involve new people you will meet and will possibly become part of your career path, and are filled with exposure, learning and growth potential. How you present yourself at conferences, and similar industry meetings can significantly impact your career.

I recently attended yet another work conference. After so many years of attending these, I have learnt to not only dress for the occasion, but also to make efficient clothing choices.

These are my three picks for the fashion essentials to attend conferences:

• The Blazer:
  

  One-button blazer – $58.80 – the limited.com

  The blazer is your number one go-to topper for conferences.Not only does it lend itself well to pretty much any outfit choice, be it an easy sheath or elegant pencil skirt, but it also adds an added touch of sophistication and elegance. Whether you pick a casual or more conservative blazer (unless you decide to go the fluorescent route), you can hardly ever go wrong with a blazer!

• The Sheath dress:
  

  Anne Klein Sheath Colorblock Dress – $67.49 – macys.com

Loving this color block dress from Macy’s! It’s contemporary, easy, yet still very much office-friendly. The sheath dress makes an easy (remember the one piece rule!) and elegant alternative to pants or skirt for conferences. Pair it with a black or neutral cardigan, and you can go from the conference room to cocktail hour in a cinch!

• The Suit:
  

  Black Check Suit – $198 – bananarepublicgap.com

My perennial favorite: the suit! I prefer easy (note, not your conservative, interview-style) suits, in breathable fabrics and modern cuts. Depending on the type of conference, you have the option of toning it down by layering a tee or lightweight sweater underneath. Or if you’re about to discuss the latest SEC financial reporting requirements, you can always add your crisp button-down shirt and string of pearls. Besides, if you happen to be packing for an out-of-town conference, taking your favorite suit along may allow you to recycle the pants or jacket on different days, and make two or three outfits out of one. Did I mention efficiency?

What are your fashion essentials for conferences?

The Corporate Sister.