Selecting the right attire for a panel discussion is a deliberate choice that influences how an audience perceives your authority. Your clothing communicates professionalism and respect for the event before you speak a single word. Dressing appropriately can also enhance your own sense of confidence, allowing you to focus on delivering your message effectively. This is not about vanity, but about leveraging your appearance as a tool to support your expertise.
Assess the Event’s Dress Code
The event invitation or website is the most direct source of information and may explicitly state a dress code like “business professional” or “business casual.” If a dress code is not provided, the nature of the industry and the topic of discussion offer significant clues. A panel on financial regulations will command a more formal wardrobe than a discussion on creative marketing trends in the tech industry.
Further research into the hosting organization and the venue can provide context. A conference held at a formal convention center suggests a different style than one at a modern, open-plan office space. Look for photos from the organization’s previous events, as they offer a direct visual guide to the typical attire. If you remain uncertain, contact the event organizer for a recommendation.
General Attire Guidelines for Panelists
When in doubt about the specific dress code, it is always better to be slightly overdressed than to appear too casual. Aim for business casual or a step above to ensure you look polished and prepared.
For a more formal engagement, consider a tailored suit in a solid color, a sophisticated dress paired with a blazer, or a combination of dress pants or a skirt with a classic blouse. If the setting is business casual, opt for well-fitting trousers or chinos matched with a blazer. A smart knit top or a crisp button-down shirt completes this look, projecting an image of relaxed authority.
Your garments should be clean, pressed, and tailored to your frame to avoid looking unkempt. Solid, rich colors such as navy blue, charcoal gray, or jewel tones like emerald and amethyst tend to look best on stage and translate well on camera. These shades are professional and help you stand out without being distracting.
What Not to Wear
Loud, busy patterns, prominent logos, or graphic t-shirts can divert the audience’s focus from what you are saying. Your attire should complement your professional presence, not overwhelm it.
Accessories that create noise are another significant concern. Dangling bracelets that jangle or long, heavy necklaces can be picked up by a lapel microphone, creating distracting sounds for both the live and virtual audience. It is best to choose simple, elegant pieces that do not move excessively or make noise.
Avoid clothing that is overly tight, restrictive, or made from itchy material. You will likely be sitting for an extended period, and any physical discomfort can affect your posture and presentation. Similarly, shoes should be comfortable enough to walk in confidently across a stage. Overly casual items such as t-shirts, shorts, ripped jeans, and flip-flops are nearly always inappropriate for a panelist.
Practical and Technical Considerations
You will almost certainly be fitted with a lapel microphone, which needs a sturdy place to be clipped. A blazer, a collared shirt, or a dress made of substantial fabric provides a secure anchor point. Flimsy materials like silk or thin knits may not support the weight of the microphone pack and can be damaged by the clip.
Stage lighting is often much brighter and harsher than normal ambient light. Bright lights can cause thin or light-colored fabrics to become semi-transparent, an issue that can be avoided by choosing opaque materials. Shiny fabrics, such as satin or some synthetics, can create a distracting glare under spotlights. Opt for matte-finish materials that absorb light rather than reflecting it.
You will be seated for most of the event, so your outfit must be comfortable and appropriate from that vantage point. Choose fabrics that resist wrinkling to maintain a crisp appearance throughout the discussion. If you opt for a skirt or dress, check its length when you are seated to ensure it provides adequate coverage. Conference rooms have unpredictable temperatures, so dressing in layers allows you to adapt and remain comfortable.