Wondering what to wear to a networking event and feel the most confident self?
Well, look nowhere as I’ve got you covered!
As an introvert, planning out my outfits ahead is HUGE when it comes to networking. After all, as the quote said, “The way you dress is the way you will be addressed”.
When you are looking and feeling good in your power suit, you will show up differently and people can just sense that.
Yes people, every time.
Ahead, I’ve gathered 8 business formal and casual outfit ideas for different types of networking events.
From luncheon to happy hour, you will find the right look here for sure.
Enjoy and make sure you go through all the looks as I have a networking perfume and dress code cheat sheet <3
1. What To Wear To A Business Networking Event?
Approach business networking with clear, specific goals to guide your interactions and maximize opportunities.
These events attract accomplished professionals who notice details 🎯
Your attire speaks before you do—a well-tailored business suit in classic colors communicates competence and confidence instantly.
Paired with polished court shoes, this combination projects authority while remaining comfortable for hours of mingling 👔👠
This professional presentation signals your standards and attention to detail—qualities that experienced professionals recognize and respect in potential connections 💼✨
PRO TIP:
When choosing a business suit for your next event always go for neutral colors such as black, grey, brown, and white.
Wearing playful and bright tones may make you look immature and unprofessional.
I know that’s not your intention but sometimes people will just think you are too stylish to truly mean business.
I hate that stereotype too but sadly it can be the case.
❤️Girl’s fashion hack #1:
Use nail polish clear coat on fraying thread ends to stop further unraveling until you can properly repair the item!
2. What To Wear To A Happy Hour Networking Event?
When it comes to happy hour networking events, they are such a perfect way to meet people who could totally help your career while you’re literally just hanging out with drinks.
It’s basically like regular networking but way more chill. No stuffy conference rooms, just carefree vibes!
Like, please don’t bore yourself with the black full suits. Nobody wants that energy in the bar for real.
But also? Don’t roll up in your gym clothes lol. Your favorite joggers need to sit this one out.
Just go for that middle ground and I’d say smart casual is the move.
Throw on some cute jeans with your fave top, maybe that blazer that makes your shoulders look amazing, and those pumps that always get compliments.
Trust me, you’ll look fire while making all the right connections! 💕
❤️Girl’s fashion hack #2:
Prevent button-down shirts from gapping between buttons by using double-sided fashion tape <3
3. What To Wear To Cocktail Networking Event?
Okay so cocktail networking events? They’re like happy hour but leveled up.
I get it, you’re a total diva and I LOVE that about you! But maybe save the sequins and sparkly stuff for the club? Going too blingy at these things can be a bit much.
When you’re stuck on what to wear, just go a little dressier! That fit and flare dress you bought last month?
Perfect.
Your pencil dress with the amazing tailoring? YES.
Even that pleated skirt outfit works! Just make sure you look polished and pro.
PRO TIP:
Skip the super short stuff! I know your legs look amazing, but save the mini dresses for girls’ night out.
Go for those midi-length dresses instead – they hit that sweet spot between looking sophisticated while still showing off your style.
❤️Girl’s fashion hack #3:Rub clear deodorant on the inside hem of pants/skirts to prevent thigh chafing. ❤️
4. What To Wear To An Alumni Networking Event?
Alumni Networking events are more of a personal networking event.
These types of meet-ups are usually organized by colleges and schools for graduates, after years down the line.
Although they are not career-oriented networking events, you can make the best out of the opportunity for yourself with your personality and dress up.
Who knows, the college junior munching on the snacks at the bar can be your next big client!
A true story- met a young guy dressing like a kid but later, he connected me and his friend for business.
The story of the day? Everyone can be a potential business partner!
Keeping in view the formality of the event, jumpsuits are the best outfit option to go about.
Although neutral colors will work well but opting for bright and lively tones (red, blue, burgundy) will also not hurt anyone!
PRO TIP:
Accessories are crucial for preppy attire.
A stylish clutch, handbag, waistbelt, and wristwatch can be a game changer for your next alumni networking look.
❤️Girl’s fashion hack #4:Use rolled-up magazine pages to maintain boot shape when storing – truly work wonders imo lol
If you are reading this blog post till now, there’s one thing for sure…
You have good taste! <3 If you approve of some of these looks, please kindly pin or share some of these outfits so many tasteful fashion babes can come across this outfit inspo, thanks pretty! ❤️
And…it would truly mean the world to me if you stay until the very end. ❤️
5. Prints And Plaids for networking
So, here comes my personal favorite, throw on some plaids and prints to add a little definition to your professional networking look.
If you are bored of wearing solids all the time to your office networking parties.
Just add some plaids and subtle prints to your existing look and see the magic happen.
You can do so by wearing a plaid blazer over your solid outfit or by adding some stripes or animal prints to your skirt.
These outfits will surely make you stand out while keeping your professional vibe intact.
❤️Girl’s fashion hack #5:
Stretch tight shoes by wearing them with thick socks and blowing them with a hairdryer!
❤️For my baddies who wanna spoil themselves: ❤️
It’s almost Christmas (in two months!!)…for the baddies who wanna spoil themselves but don’t wanna break the bank… check out the bags babies below❤️
From my backend data, almost every 3 days someone from LTK and my email list will buy these two bags lol (Different sizes - some prefer mini some prefer the normal).
It's always so fun see from data to know what you girls prefer!
6. Networking Event Outfit Ideas For Women
Still can’t figure out what to wear to your next networking event?
Well, not to worry.
This elegant office dress from Amazon is a sure shot to win hearts and, of course, a lot of social contacts at your next networking event.
Get this one-piece pencil skirt on Amazon (It comes in all hues and sizes)
However, if you want to go the extra mile and elevate your networking dress-up game like never before,just throw on an office blazer and let everyone wander in!
Get this best-selling blazer on Amazon
SIDE NOTE:
If the networking setting isn’t that formal, rolling up that sleeves will draw your eyes upward and make you look taller without trying too hard.
Try this trick!
❤️Girl’s fashion hack #6:
Quick fix – Brighten yellowed white clothing by soaking in a solution of lemon juice and hot water!
7. What Shoes To Wear At A Networking Event?
The choice of your shoes entirely depends upon the formality of the networking events.
Like for some happy hour networking events you can opt for some classy-looking shoes like tennis sneakers or loafers.
However, dress pumps and sandals are some of the universal shoe choices to wear at a networking event.
And the best part is you can choose from a variety of colors and styles to match your outfit needs!
Get these Clarks Linvale Jerica Pumps
What can I say? You can never go wrong with the Brand CLARKS
❤️Girl’s fashion hack #7:
Whenever I feel bloated, I’ll always use a rubber band to loop through a button hole and around the button for a temporary fix to pants that are too tight!
8. What To Bring To a Networking Event?
For efficient networking, you need to bring in a few important things while attending an event.
Pens, notepads, business cards, brochures, and flyers are some of the must-have items to bring to a networking event.
But, wait? How do you carry them all in your hand?
So here is the easy solution to this problem: just bring in a portfolio case to keep all these essential things in handy while maintaining professionalism.
If you are looking for a decent folder, here is our ultimate from Amazon.
Get this padfolio on Amazon
Do you know that bringing a portfolio is not just for the practical issue, but rather, that’s for boosting the impression and trustworthiness.
Subconsciously people will think you are a decent and well-prepared person.
And guess what? you can handle networking way more effortlessly.
And here’s the cheat sheet I’ve promised!
❤️ Girl’s fashion hack#8: Keep Jewelry Organized While Traveling hackThread necklaces through drinking straws to prevent tangling – simply clasp the necklace and thread the chain through a straw.
FINAL THOUGHTS:
So there you go people, the 8 outfit inspo and tips if you are wondering what to wear to networking events.
Now it’s time to pin down the final look and look and feel THE BEST.
As the saying goes “Networking is a lot like nutrition and fitness: we know what to do, the hard part is making it a top priority.”
I’m sure you can nail it!
Looking for more business wear outfit tips? Check out the popular articles below. See you there loves!
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