Educate, Honor, Inspire = the motto at the Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum in NYC

"Concentrate on putting together an outfit that looks, fits, and feels good."
-Dr. K

The most important objective of giving a talk are communicating effectively to your audience and making a connection. The second priority is looking good.

What to wear when delivering the main talk at an event, otherwise known as the keynote speech? Winter weather can make this seemingly simplistic task a bit more complex. A bundled ensemble is effective for the exterior climate, but it is definitely unsuitable for the interior. The temps in an auditorium probably will be more cozy, meaning that the layers will need to be stripped off while keeping you looking put together.

I spoke at an event for the GOALS for Girls program, which provides training for 8th and 9th grade girls who are interested in STEM. The outfit worn for this particular talk was on a 29°F NYC morning in the Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum’s auditorium.

Key Pieces = A bolero, tailored blouse, midi skirt, and long boots

My choice of outfit for the weather, facility, and audience on this particular Keynote Edition:

The long skirt-high boots combo afforded warmth without being stuffy.

Balenciaga Midi Skirt - pink, cotton & wool

Isabel Marant Over-the-Knee Boots - black, suede

The Bolero = adds an extra protective layer during the talk.

A tuxedo blouse added tailoring and shape, avoiding a frumpy look due to the flowing skirt. Adding a bolero during the talk ensured not getting chilly under the AC.

Banana Republic Tuxedo Shirt - black, cotton

Marni Woven Bolero - multi, silk

The red outer coat protected me from the frigid outside temps while acting as a stand out wow piece.

Dolce Gabbana Long Double Breasted Coat- red, cashmere & wool

The bag is key. It gives a professional look without being ugly. It is also functional because it has multiple compartments for the essentials.

Prada Saffiano Bag - blush, leather

Boca Focus = a bold lip game signifies a confident speaker

Because it’s a talk, focus may land on the mouth. This means wearing something that is comfortable, but also flattering. My favorite is Plum Lush by Tom Ford. It is long-lasting and keeps my lips hydrated without shine.

Tom Ford Matte Lipstick - pink, Plum Lush

Cashmere lined gloves prevented cold handshakes.

Saks Fifth Avenue Gloves - navy, leather

Do you need to get these luxury brands to look good during your talk?

Hells no!

The Banana Republic piece thrown in there was not to intentionally balance out high-low items, but because I liked the look and feel of the blouse. So, don’t worry about how much stuff costs or the labels. Concentrate on putting together an outfit that looks, fits, and feels good. Just follow the formula of lengths, textures, and weight. The suede boots and wool offer warmth. But lighter yet durable fabrics like cotton and silk, keep us comfortable and not over heated. Think about how it might feel giving a talk under bright lights and pressure. Uh huh. So, take these elements and get dupes at your store or brand of choice.