15+ Tips and Ideas for the Best Event Planner Outfit

By Liz Flynn May 29, 2023

As an event planner, you know that a successful event lies not only in your impeccable organization skills but also in how you present yourself.

Event planners should always dress in business casual attire because it looks professional and instills confidence.

The perfect event planner outfit looks chic and polished without standing out too much. After all, a successful event is one where everything runs smoothly, and you don’t have to put out too many fires behind the scenes.

Here are the best event planner outfit ideas that will help you impress your clients and leave a lasting impression.

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Sleek Blazers

A blazer is a cornerstone piece for any event planner’s wardrobe. This business casual staple is elegant, professional, and easy to wear.

Having a few classic black blazers will come in handy as an event planner. Black is an easy color to accessorize, and it’s appropriate for almost any kind of event because it lets you blend in.

Add some colorful blazers to your outfit rotation for more casual days when meeting with clients and vendors.

Check out our selection of affordable, sleek blazers.

Pantsuits

A pantsuit makes an excellent event planner outfit if you work formal or corporate events. The primary purpose of an event planner is to blend into the background while ensuring everything runs smoothly.

This is easy to achieve with a well-tailored pantsuit and a professional blouse. Not only will you feel powerful and confident, but you will also feel comfortable moving around for hours in this outfit.

Choose a breathable, sustainable fabric like cotton or hemp for the ultimate pantsuit look. These fabrics are great for the environment and keep you cool under any kind of pressure.

Explore our favorite sustainable pantsuits.

Cardigans

Event planners need to wear outfits that can be comfortable in different types of weather and settings. Adding a cardigan is an excellent way to plan for whatever comes your way on event day.

Cardigans are cute, comfy, and perfect for layering. They keep you warm while looking stylish but won’t cause you to overheat while running around an event.

Cardigans come in various styles, cuts, and colors. Choose a cardigan in a neutral color and modern fit so as not to draw attention away from the big event.

Explore the best sustainable cardigans that are both cozy and chic.

Button-Up Shirts

When in doubt, wear a button-up shirt. Whether long-sleeved or worn under a blazer, a button-up is a classic business casual outfit for event planners.

The best thing about wearing a button-up is that they’re effortlessly dressy and professional.

Wear a button-up with a pantsuit to create a commanding presence, or pair your shirt with straight-leg trousers and nice sneakers for a more casual vibe.

Check out our selection of button-up shirts for the perfect dressy look.

Versatile Blouses

You can’t go wrong with a versatile, cute blouse. Blouses work for all body types, personal styles, and event settings.

A loose-fitting, sheer blouse with a midi skirt and sneakers creates a fun, feminine event planner look. A neutral-colored blouse with a modest neckline or billowing sleeves is an excellent option if you're working an event like a wedding or formal party.

No matter what style of sustainable blouse you choose, make sure it has a looser fit and flexible fabric to provide a range of motion.

Check out our favorite affordable blouses to find one that you love.

Dress in Layers

Dress in layers to remain comfortable and prepared for whatever an event throws your way.

Wearing slacks, a blouse, and a chic cardigan is a great example of how to layer as an event planner. You never know what kind of weather or temperatures you’ll encounter the day of the event, so being able to add or take off layers as you work is very important.

These Japanese lagenlook outfit ideas are excellent examples of how to layer your look for work.

Black Pants

Black pants are every event planner’s go-to wardrobe staple. Well-tailored black pants will take you far because they’re versatile, flattering, and extremely professional.

Plus, it doesn’t hurt that black trousers match pretty much everything. You can wear them with an elegant blouse, cute cardigan, three-quarter henley, and more. Throw on a blazer for an extra layer of professionalism, and your event will go off without a hitch.

Spruce up your event planner wardrobe with a couple pairs of USA-made work pants.

Breathable Jumpsuits

If you want to dress outside the box, wear a comfortable, breathable jumpsuit. A jumpsuit is a great way to express your edgy style while remaining polished and professional.

Event planners need to run the show without drawing attention to themselves, so wear dark, muted colors that will help you blend into the background. For example, a simple black or navy jumpsuit in a breathable cotton fabric will do the trick perfectly.

Our selection of the best jumpsuits are all sustainably-made and affordable.

¾ Sleeve Tops

Event planner outfits can be tricky because you want to dress for comfort while remaining stylish. A simple three-quarter sleeve top is a great way to give you more coverage without sacrificing your personal style.

A three-quarter sleeve blouse hits right in the middle of the forearm, so it’s an excellent option if you prefer to have your arms and shoulders covered while on the job. Wear a flowy blouse with black trousers or a classic henley tee with a dark blazer for a classic professional look.

When shopping for the perfect three-quarter sleeve top, buy high-quality, sustainable options like hemp tops and cotton shirts.

Professional Dresses

A professional dress is perfect for event planners who want to take their look to the next level. Dresses work incredibly well if the event is more formal, such as a gala or high-profile fundraiser.

A midi-length dress with a conservative neckline is best. You never know when you’ll have to lean over or bend down during the course of the event. A wardrobe malfunction or unintended flash of skin is not what you want to be remembered for while on the job.

Explore our selection of classic black dresses and formal dresses that work for any occasion.

Monochromatic Outfits

Wearing a monochromatic outfit is an easy way to look sleek, chic, and professional. All black is a classic monochromatic outfit choice, but feel free to get creative.

If you work in a creative industry like the arts, create a monochromatic look in your favorite jewel tone or pastel color. There are a lot of beautifully dyed natural fabrics out there, so finding a pair of uniquely colored trousers isn’t too big of a challenge.

For example, pair magenta pants with a matching top, or wear a darker color like navy or gray to make a stronger impression.

Don’t miss out on our selection of budget-friendly linen pants and gorgeous blouses.

Comfortable Shoes

Comfortable shoes are a given when you’re an event planner. You are on your feet all day and night, so caring for your feet is essential.

Depending on the event's formality, you can wear dressy sneakers with solid arch support or closed-toe flats. Whatever you choose, make sure you feel comfortable and confident wearing them for long periods at a time.

Explore our favorite sustainably-made flats and high-quality sneakers that are built to last for years.

Plenty of Pockets

An outfit with plenty of pockets makes your life as an event planner so much easier. You’re always on the go, and wearing an outfit that allows for versatility and convenience is a major key to success.

Well-tailored trousers with deep pockets, dresses with hidden pockets, and sleek blazers are all excellent ways to incorporate pockets into your event planner look.

Also invest in some leggings with side pockets during more casual set-up days. Shop our favorites here.

A Crossbody Bag or Backpack

As an event planner, a crossbody bag or backpack is the best option to wear to an event. A crossbody bag or backpack has more storage space and is much more comfortable than a small shoulder bag.

You can easily transport your laptop, iPad, planner, and any other day-of-event necessities in a backpack. Plus, a crossbody bag distributes weight much better than a shoulder bag, making it a more comfortable option for your back.

Also, you don’t have to worry about a crossbody or backpack clashing with your event planner outfit.

Choose from our selection of cute, eco-friendly backpacks for your next event.

A Watch

Event planners must always be aware of the time to stay on schedule. Many event planners choose to wear a wrist or smartwatch instead of pulling out their phones to check the time.

Wearing a watch will give you a more professional, respectable edge. If you keep pulling out your phone to check the time during an event, attendees will think you’re distracted and more focused on your personal life than their special day.

Accessorize your watch to match your outfit for a put-together look.

What Not to Wear

Avoid these fashion missteps to create a stellar first impression as an event planner.

Denim jeans: While dark wash denim can look nice when attending vendor and client meetings, they’re not appropriate attire for working day-of events. Keep it professional with a pair of slacks.
High heels: High heels may look fabulous with a professional event planner outfit, but don’t wear them. You’ll be running around before, during, and after the event, so show your feet some love and wear flats or nice sneakers instead.
A tiny handbag: Event planners must be prepared for every possible situation. So, a tiny handbag is useless the day of. Instead, bring something that fits all the tools you might need and then some.

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About the Author: Liz Flynn

Liz Flynn is a freelance writer, fiber artist, and amateur art historian. She is passionate about making sustainable, ethical fashion accessible to everyone. In her spare time, Liz can be found crocheting, reading, hiking, or hanging out with her beloved dog, Atwood. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Art History and Education from UC Riverside.