⭐️Edit⭐️ Thanks for the responses everyone! I will be going with the first one, and feel very confident in doing so given all the feedback. For those who asked, the first dress is from Aritzia, but it’s at least 5 years old and no longer on the website.
Info: I illustrate children's books. My agency is having a wine and cheese event at a hotel in NY. I've never been to this event before, but it is a networking type thing, where I will meet publishers, art directors, editors, and other important people (no children). There was no dress code given, but I assume it's cocktail attire-ish. I will be taking an Uber there, so can wear heels or any shoes.
I prefer the second dress, but my concern with it is that (CW: SI) I have old self injury scars on my arms and don't want to be perceived as unprofessional or mentally unstable. Most of them have faded and it is only visible up close.