By: Rebecca Howard
If you’re like me, you love to travel and explore new cities. Unfortunately, getting there can be more hassle than fun, especially for jet-setting fashionistas. Obviously, you want to look your best en route. You never know who you might bump into on the plane! But those super-skinny jeans that fit your rear just right? If they cut off your circulation just standing, they’re probably not your best bet for air travel.
Many people take the easy way out when flying. You’ve seen them. Sweats and sneakers, or even pajamas! But that is so not you. What if that cute guy across the aisle turns out to be single? On the other hand, you don’t want to spend hours wedged into that tiny seat wearing clothing that makes you squirm.
So the age-old question remains – is it possible to fly high in fashion? Of course! Follow these tips I’ve gleaned, and you’ll look good and enjoy your flight at the same time.
Feel Good in Flats
Shoes are always an issue. I know, I hate to give up my strappy heels, too, but consider the practical issues involved. It’s hard enough to squeeze down the aisle balancing bags without wobbling on 4-inch spikes. And those stilettos just won’t cut it when you’re sprinting to catch your connecting flight. Nobody wants to find themselves sprawled out flat in a crowded hallway watching everything roll out of their carry-on.
Despite reports of easing up, the last time I flew, security was still making everyone remove their footwear. You don’t want to hold up the line by struggling with a bunch of complicated buckles, so go with cute ballet flats, loafers, or sandals that are easy to slip on and off. You’re going to be sitting down anyway, and your feet will thank you. I always carry a pair of fuzzy socks in my purse, which you can pick up almost anywhere for just a dollar or two. I like to relax with my shoes off in-flight, and these keep my tootsies warm and cozy.
Beat the In-flight Blues
I am the person who is always shivering in the seat next to you. It’s not easy to get your hands on a complimentary blanket anymore, so the smart thing to do is dress in layers. Even if you’re traveling from Miami to Los Angeles mid-summer, you’ll be glad you have a jacket or sweater when the plane’s temperature drops into the arctic zone.
Rather than lugging around a bulky coat, bring a lightweight sweater that you can easily fold up and stuff into your bag. Pondering the issue, Lucky magazine recently recommended this ultra-light down parka from Uniqlo (now on sale for $59.90), which folds up into an included, wallet-size pouch. Personally, I have a loose-fitting cotton blazer similar to this one from Forever 21 ($39.80) that I love to wear on planes. Its big, drapey sleeves and lapels can actually be wrapped around you for extra warmth. The olive color goes with everything, and it gives a hip, dressed-up look to a plain t-shirt.
A Word of Caution
Now that we have your feet and arms covered, I’m sure you’re still wondering what ensemble you can actually wear to look divine without sacrificing comfort? Many people rely on jeans, but let me offer a cautionary tale. In an attempt to look chic, I once headed to the airport wearing my favorite Rock & Republic jeans. Imagine my horror when the security scanner beeped incessantly. I finally realized the metal studs on my jeans were the culprit. Nevertheless, I had to suffer through a major pat-down and wait amidst stares while all my bags were searched. Do not repeat my mistake! Be aware of any problematic hardware, and pack those items for later. I have heard that underwire bras cause the same problem, so avoid those, too, and keep jewelry to a minimum. No matter how amazing you look in that outfit, it’s not worth that kind of embarrassing hassle. Trust me.
Jet-setting Style
In my opinion, a cotton maxi dress is the perfect outfit for summer travel. They don’t wrinkle much, and you can literally curl up inside them like snuggling into a blanket. This Stripe Maxi Dress (on sale for $24.99 at Gap.com) would make the perfect traveling outfit.
In cooler seasons or climates, a cozy pair of leggings is a no-brainer. My favorites are by TopShop, similar to this pair (on sale for $15). They’re a thicker material than most, which holds its shape well and they’re almost fleece-like inside. I suggest pairing leggings with a hip-length tunic for a relaxed, cool-girl style. Cold climates are also the perfect place to top off the look with your furry UGG boots in true celebrity style!
When planning future trips, follow these suggestions to saunter down the jetway in style. Wow everyone with your fashion flair as you float off the plane looking fab and ready to jump right into the fun. And if that cute guy across the aisle turns out to be Kit Harington, won’t you be glad you’re not wearing those schlumpy old sweats and sneakers?
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Rebecca Howard is a California blonde by transplant, but usually showing her roots, both dark and Southern. Although her career path has been varied, writing is the lifelong passion she is now pursuing professionally. She is generally found: lying out in the sun reading when she should be writing. Her obsessions include: The Rolling Stones, sunshine and shoes. She is addicted to: Diet Dr. Pepper, Twizzlers, Downton Abbey and shoes. She can usually be caught: bribing her kids not to tell her husband about the shopping bags stashed in the closet. Which are full of shoes.