I’ve been asking women leaders a very tactical conference-season question lately
By Melissa Burdick · May 1, 2026 · Curated by George's Blog
I’ve been asking women leaders a very tactical conference-season question lately that is a common pain point:
What are your conference wear hacks?
When I asked Sherry Smith, President of Retail Media at Criteo, she had a system: carry-on only, pieces that mix and match, one backup outfit, and pants that can go from the airport, to meetings, to a full conference day
Sherry and I both agreed on a specific travel hack: the Rag & Bone Miramar jeans. Pricey, but worth it - they look like denim but feel like sweatpants.
It reminded me of my conversation with Lauren Livak Gilbert of The Digital Shelf Institute, who is probably already thinking about what to pack for DSI’s big conference next week.
Both Lauren and Sherry said:
You have to feel good to perform well.
One of the most under-discussed parts of conference season is the Sunday afternoon spent staring at a suitcase, trying to figure out what will actually make you feel confident (and not too hot/cold) for three days straight.
How long did it take you to pack for your last conference? And more importantly, what’re your travel hacks?