Business attire for management meeting in Cancun

[Anonymous]

I have an international annual sales meeting in Cancun for management, about 900 people attending. Dress will be business casual, which is always vexing for me.

Given the climate, the locale, the audience (all 40+), what would you recommend I wear? Maybe just point me toward a couple of stores for ideas online? Would you start with a jacket and remove it for a basic look, or go with more of a blouse/pants combo? The meeting rooms are usually always so cold. It's three days, so I don't have to worry about more than three days.

Also, would you go to the pool for R&R under any circumstances? My gut says no way to being seen in a swimsuit by other peers and higher ups at the VP level. What if a bunch of people go? Not sure I feel comfortable half-naked around upper management. (would also require me to find a one-piece that I like... no easy feat!)

[Anonymous]

You need to look all-biz, especially as a woman so I would include a jacket that you can take off if need be. You can do skirts, pants or even a dress with it.

I would follow what the senior management does in terms of behavior,pool, etc. You can still go to the pool but wear an attractive cover-up over your suit (or even just a patio dress) to be more appropriate.

OP, what do you wear here in warm weather? You might have it in your closet.

Do make it resort appropriate and avoid the really conservative stuff, hosiery, etc. Keep it lighter, appropriate, and polished.

[Anonymous]

OP again... I'm just getting back with my former company so I don't have a ton of work clothes. The ones I do have are all-business, like for a sales presentation to CEO level meetings.

I have the basics, like black pants, jackets, heels, some cute blouses, but nothing resort appropriate (basic colors, no brights, no prints). I'm looking forward to a little fun shopping for things, but want them to be polished and fit into my daily wardrobe when I get back too.

I'm thinking of Theory and Ann Taylor. Anyplace else I should look? I like BCBG but it's a little young and edgy.

[Anonymous]

OP,
I think a summer weight (in cotton or tropical wool) is a nice way to go. I got a nice gray cotton blazer from Club Monaco and have worn it to death. You may want to check out Club Monaco as they always have some nice work wear.

You may also want to consider a plain sleeveless sheeth dress to the knee which you could put a blazer over.

One other item to consider is a crisp white cotton shirt which will look fit in with the more tropical look but also look professional.

You may want to also look at the j crew website as they seem to have nice separates and may have some spring clothes out already. I also agree with you that theory makes very nice pieces.

Have fun!