What to Pack for a Business-Casual Work Conference

This year has been full of home office work, Zoom-from-the-waist-up meetings, and in-the-field market appointments here in Jamaica. (Gone are the days of getting up early for work, putting on a full outfit, and running out the door to catch my 8:30 train to the office.) Most of it was spent figuring out how to launch an international business, which involves a decent amount of travel. That has made my work wardrobe lean quite casual. I rarely pulled out a polished look unless it was for a special occasion. Still, I revel in any moment to get dressed and feel like the businesswoman I’m growing to be.

This past month, I was chosen to be part of a leadership fellowship for Debra Lee’s Leading Women Defined. Twenty-five women, including myself, attended a jam-packed leadership conference in LA that included everything from community building to panels packed with executives. We grew in professionally and personally, and created connections to last a lifetime. And when it came to getting dressed each day, I knew I needed to dust off some of my favorite workwear pieces—plus add a few special items to the mix—to feel as special as the weekend itself.

Below are three easy workwear looks I put together from my closet before and during my time at the conference.

A Silky Set

(Image credit: Mecca James-Williams)

This satin red set from Argent was the perfect day-to-night look. During panels, wearing these pieces with a blazer (also from the brand) felt effortless and professional. I took off the jacket in the evening for a chic, easy-going ensemble that transitioned seamlessly into dinner and networking events. I paired it with monochromatic pumps that complemented the rich red tone without competing for attention.

A Versatile Blouse With Business-Casual Denim

(Image credit: Mecca James-Williams)

This wrap top from Monse is my favorite business top. It’s cropped to perfectly accentuate the waist, but still feels professional. I paired it with a high-waisted denim skirt and my Prada pumps. I love incorporating denim into my work wardrobe, and a skirt made this look feel elevated yet still business-casual.

A Colorful Trouser With a Knit Top

(Image credit: Mecca James-Williams)

I love infusing bold color into anything I wear. I paired these easy single-pleat trousers from Argent with the perfect vintage Missoni striped knit. It felt bold and special without oversaturating my look.