What to wear to a Corporate event

Hi y’all!

For my work, both past and present, I’ve often had to participate in or organize various events—workshops, showcases, conferences—you name it. Some of these events are pretty low-key, while others are high-stakes with ministers and diplomats in attendance.

One challenge I always face is finding the perfect outfit for these occasions. When I’m just a guest, it’s a lot easier because all I have to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy the event. But when I’m the organizer or presenter, it’s a whole different story. I want to look elegant and sophisticated, but I also need to be comfortable since I’m usually running around, standing for hours, or multitasking all day.

Here are a few options I gravitate toward:

1. Suits

I love the idea of a suit for work events. They’re formal, polished, and people take you seriously when you wear one. However, I like to add a bit of flair to my suits. Instead of a full matching set, I often opt for a deconstructed look—pairing a fun, printed or colored blazer with dark slacks and a camisole. Sometimes, I’ll switch out the slacks for a midi pencil or pleated skirt. Since it’s never too cold here in Dakar, I prefer a camisole over a full blouse or long-sleeve shirt.

A colorful blazer paired with dark slacks and a floral camisole

A dark blazer with a pleated skirt

2. Fitted Dresses

Though I don’t own a lot of them, fitted dresses are another go-to for events. They can be both functional and comfortable, especially in classic tones like black or navy. If you really want to make a statement, bold colors like red work wonders. A well-fitted dress means business without being restrictive. I do avoid tight dresses though, as they can send the wrong message in professional settings.

I tried this red fitted dress at Mango last month. 
I did not buy it but I think it would be great asset. I will just have to add a blazer. 

3. Senegalese Attire

A few years ago, I wouldn’t have considered wearing Senegalese attire to work events, but a former coworker changed my mind. Now, I love incorporating traditional wear into my work wardrobe, especially for formal events. I tend to avoid the tighter "taille basse" styles (peplum tops with fitted skirts) and go for something like a dress or a flowing Grand Boubou (Mumu style). It’s a great way to make use of my formal Senegalese outfits, which I’d usually save for religious festivals or family gatherings. In Senegal, traditional attire is perfectly acceptable for work events, as long as it’s not too flashy or overly bejeweled.

 Boubous that I designed for my fashion brand Sinniature 

4. Bags

For events, I always carry a trusty tote bag. It’s large enough to fit my laptop, notebook, business cards, water bottle, and toiletries—everything I need for a full-day event. Over the years, I’ve accumulated quite the collection of tote bags in both basic colors and fun prints.

A leather tote bag I am thinking of purchasing

I was gifted this bag two years ago and it had been really useful for events 

and even for travelling.

5. Shoes

Comfort is key, so I usually wear low-heeled pumps or mules. I prefer pumps or slingbacks when wearing Western-style clothes, and mules when I’m in Senegalese attire. When it is colder weather, I wear my loafers. Even if I start the day in heels, I always carry a pair of flat sandals in my bag, just in case I need to switch for comfort halfway through the event.

Kitten heels slingbacks in black are so elegant but  
for practicality reasons, I prefer block heels or flats

The loafers are a life saver but I tend to wear them during the cold season. 

6. Accessories

When it comes to accessories, I always aim for balance. If my outfit is simple and understated, I’ll amp things up with bold jewelry—like big earrings or a statement necklace. On the flip side, if my outfit is already busy, like a printed blazer, I’ll stick to minimal accessories like simple studs, a watch, and a slim chain necklace. It’s all about striking the right balance! On other days, I keep everything minimal because I just can’t be bothered. And when I wear Senegalese attire, I always make sure to bring a scarf, like a Pashmina, to throw over my shoulders. For some reason, people love cranking up the AC at these events, and I’m always freezing. A Pashmina helps keep me warm and comfortable.

Matching jewelry set

That’s my approach to dressing for work events—elegance, comfort, and practicality all in one!

What is yours?