OE15: What to wear at Europe's biggest oil show

If you're an old hand at major oil events you'll know that you're choice of clothing can be key to having a successful show. 

For those who are new, not having the right gear on can leave you shivvering in a technical session or baking hot on the exhibition floor. 

With SPE Offshore less than a week away, we asked some regular show goers for their tips on what to wear to survive a major oil show. 

Rhea Hussey, International client services director, Fifth Ring 

For those who know me, you’ll know that heels are a staple of my work-wear wardrobe, so much so that wearing flats all day can give me a really sore back. 

As crazy as it seems, I tested out a pair of bright pink M&S kitten heels a couple of years ago at OTC and they worked a treat. Of course you’d be mad to wear a stiletto or something you haven’t broken in yet, but there’s definitely a happy medium to be had!

Some handy back ups to pack in your bag:

  • Terry cloth insoles – Love these. They make the most uncomfortable shoes feel like slippers
  • Blister plasters – Because if you don’t get blisters you are not working hard enough
  • Party feet - Because your days will be long and you just have to keep on going

And finally, the weather in our fair city can change all too quickly so pack a scarf as it’s easy to carry and not an all-consuming procedure to put on and take off.

Kylie Roux and Jenny Adams, ThinkPR 

At an oil and gas conference like SPE Offshore Europe, "best" dressed does not mean who’s wearing the latest designer dress or most dapper suit. As a delegate, you need to be prepared to meander through the thousands of stands for potentially hours at a time – so comfort takes priority over leading the fashion parade.

You are, of course, promoting yourself and your business. Meetings and networking with current and potential clients goes hand-in-hand with the event, so making a good impression is essential. However, having to remove your shoes an hour in due to blisters slowly forming is not going to achieve a particularly positive imprint. 

Comfort is key as you may be on your feet for several hours, often without any chance to sit down. For the ladies, a pair of flat shoes which you wear regularly is ideal, and investing in some cushioned insoles can make the whole experience far more enjoyable. 

From outside areas, to technical session rooms and the bustling tents – temperatures can vary considerably. Address this issue with the use of multiple layers to ensure you are equipped to disrobe and cover up at every eventuality!

The weather is also a volatile beast in Aberdeen, and we can be subjected to many seasons in a day. We’re hopeful snow won’t be an issue (although don’t rule it out) but wind, rain and sunshine are highly likely, so it’s handy to have a brolly tucked away to whip out at a moment’s notice, especially when you are waiting in the taxi or bus queue at the end of the event.

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