STYLETHREAD -- LET'S TALK SHOP!

Metric · Gucci

business formal

Kitty · Hermes

I'd probably do a neutral colored pencil skirt, button down top, and cardigan or jacket. Top with heels and one of my office-y bags.

valenciana · Dooney & Bourke

Hmmm...I think "business formal" must mean a suit. It's not an interview, so if you have a fun suit, that would probably work, but IMO even "business professional" dress means a suit, so I can't imagine "business formal" being anything less.

I guess it might also kind of depend on who else will be there, what the purpose of the event is, what your role is, etc. Will your boss be there? Are you speaking? Getting an award? Representing your company? Probably need to err on the more formal/conservative side. Just eating lunch and listening to other people speak? You could probably get away with a slightly more fun outfit.

cc · Marc Jacobs

I agree with valenciana and would probably wear something very conservative (dark suit, closed toe shoes, hose, the works) unless you know the setting and other attendees and know that it would be acceptable to wear something "different" like a colorful blouse or interesting jewelry.

HeatherLynn · Gucci

I would wear a suit. When I attend business formal conferences that is what I wear and do not feel out of place.

Shello · Kenneth Cole

I agree with a suit. I just did a co-op in a business formal office (financial sector) and we were required to wear suits every day. It was extremely conservative, no open-toed shoes, no loud colors, and people didn't even dye their hair or take their jacket off to go to the bathroom. I doubt there are many environments like that out there, but I think it's better to be safe than sorry - for business events you wouldn't want to be the only one in a bright color and sandals.

Suasoria · Chanel

Your best suit, elegant accessories, very upscale; like I'd wear a satiny blouse or shell versus a cotton broadcloth button-front shirt. I'd probably pick a skirt suit over pants just in case it's a conservative crowd.