What Should I Wear on Stage? Your Speaker Style FAQ For TEDx and Beyond

You’ve written the talk. You’ve practiced your delivery.

But there’s one question many speakers leave until the last minute:

“What should I wear on stage?”

As a Personal Stylist for purpose-led leaders that include TEDx speakers and keynote presenters, I hear this all the time. Whether you’re preparing for your first big stage or your next big visibility moment, what you wear matters.

Your outfit is more than just clothes. It’s a tool for confidence, connection, and credibility.

This quick FAQ will help you avoid last-minute outfit panic and step onto the stage feeling aligned, authentic, and unforgettable.

1. What should I wear for a talk or keynote?

Start with your message and personality. What energy do you want to project? What story are you telling? Your outfit should visually reinforce your presence, not distract from it. You want to connect with your audience authentically, not dress as someone else. Research the vibe. A TEDx is more personal and creative; a corporate keynote might need a sleeker, more elevated look.

2. How do I find my signature speaker style?

Your signature style is your visual identity. It reflects your values, voice, and personality, before you say a word. The goal is to feel like your best self, not like you’re in a costume. So if you feel at your best in jeans and t shirt, just think about the details in how you can elevate this for stage presence, whether that’s through colour or accessories etc. 

What legacy do you want to communicate? What are your Personal Brand values? Pick 3 words to define your Style Personality. Examples: Innovative, Influential, Polished, Colourful, Chic, Bold, Powerful.

Start to build out your own Pinterest Board by saving images that resonate. Then analyse the details, prints, colours, and shapes you're naturally drawn to - these are the visual cues of your aspirational style.

3. What colours work best on stage or camera?

Bold, solid colours tend to translate best, that could be jewel tones or rich neutrals.

Avoid neons, overly shiny fabrics, or small prints (they can distort on camera).

Want to go deeper? Use colour psychology for example:

• Red for energy and impact

• Blue for trust and calm

• Green for growth and connection

4. What fabrics should I avoid?

Steer clear of:

• Anything clingy, sheer, or shiny

• Fabrics that crumple easily or make noise (like stiff taffeta or cheap polyester)

Instead, choose natural, breathable fabrics that hold their shape and photograph well, like organic cotton, ecovero viscose, cashmere or bamboo.

5. How do I dress for my body shape with confidence?

Forget size. Focus on fit and proportions.

The right lines, layers, and silhouettes can flatter your shape and help you feel grounded. My clients are often amazed at how a few tweaks to trouser length, tucking in tops or neckline shape, can change everything.

6. Can I build a speaker wardrobe sustainably?

Absolutely. Start with what you own and love. Then build a capsule collection of mix-and-match pieces you can rewear on camera and stage. Build this around your 3-4 wow colours.

I often recommend:

• One well fitted blazer

• Two stage-ready tops in your wow colours

• Tailored trousers or a midi skirt

• One signature pair of shoes 

You can source these sustainably through preloved platforms, rental services, or slow fashion brands.

7. What’s the biggest mistake speakers make with style?

Wearing something brand new or something that doesn’t feel like them.

You want to feel anchored and confident on stage, not distracted by a scratchy label or wobbly heels. It’s about showing up, not dressing up as someone else.

8. Do I have to wear heels to look polished?

Not at all. Confidence is in your posture, not your heel height.

Block heels, statement flats, or even elevated trainers can work, if styled with intention. As you will want some movement in your talk and you’ll be standing for a little while, you might prefer flats. 

9. Final tip for feeling confident on stage?

Pick one outfit that makes you feel like YOU.

Practice in it.

Take photos.

And always bring backups, safety pins, fashion tape, or a steamer - you’ll thank me later.

Ready to Create Your Signature Speaker Style?

If you’re ready to look the part and feel powerful in every room you walk into, I’d love to help.

I work with speakers, founders and leaders 1:1 to build aligned, sustainable wardrobes that support their message and amplify their presence & impact, through my Luxe Style Formula transformational styling package. Click here to find out more by booking your free Style Strategy Call to find out if it's a good fit for you.