Comfort and convenience on long flights

June 13th, 2007

Wearing the right outfit can make a big difference on a long flight. Many hours in a cramped environment with different climates at your origin, destination and in the air makes for tricky choices. And while comfort is paramount, looking scruffy is not acceptable (no sweats or tracksuits please!). You will also want to think about those few minutes of chaos at the security checkpoint.

Here are some guidelines for being both sensible and stylish: 

  • Don’t wear light colors that show up dirt and grime.
  • Wear wrinkle resistant tops like stretchy jersey and mesh knits that you can wash as soon as you arrive. Their quick-drying and crease free nature is an added advantage. Stay clear of rigid linens and 100% cottons that crumple and don’t stretch.
  • Wear stretch jeans or stretch pants and avoid the discomfort and inconvenience of a belt (one less thing to worry about as you move through security).
  • Dress in layers and be prepared for temperature fluctuations throughout your journey. Start of with a camisole or tank top so that you can peel right off to this last layer if you need to. Top it off with a wrinkle free knitted top, cardigan, hoodie or stretchy jacket. Wear a trench coat instead of a jacket and look uber chic.
  • Wear soft underwear and avoid scratchy lace and underwire discomfort.
  • Avoid high heels and stick to flat slip-ons like fashion sneakers, ballet flats or loafers. Pack a pair of socks for the flight if you’re not wearing them when you board.
  • Bring along a pashmina that doubles up as a blanket. 
  • Pack a fresh top to change into just before you land.
  • Carry a large dressy tote that zips up on top as your handbag option. It can double up as your everyday handbag on holiday.

Dressing appropriately and practically when you travel on long flights is essential. Travel economy but look first class!

Halogen Stretch Canvas BlazCotton CamisoleWhirly Girl Hoodie

Streamline Tote Long and Lean JeansDKNY Haneda


 

6 Replies

Posted on Wednesday, June 13th, 2007 at 8:54 am

The red shoes are so cute!

Posted on June 13th, 2007 at 9:40 am

There was a time when there was an “approprate” type of dress for air travel. My mom always told me that you had to dress nicely for a plane (similiar to someone that travels for business). It was not appropriate to wear sweats or even jeans on a plane. I dont think it is necessarliy like that today. I see a lot of people dressed for comfort when they travel. What do you think? Do you think there is an appropriate level of “dressiness” for air travel. — jf

Posted on June 13th, 2007 at 10:57 am

I think that it’s important to look stylish when you fly. I suppose that does mean a certain level of dressiness. A long flight is no excuse to wear an form of tracksuit no matter how branded it is.

Posted on June 14th, 2007 at 7:32 am
Christie

What additional advice would you have for the business traveler who maybe has to go straight from the airport to a meeting, with only a short stop at the restroom beforehand?

Posted on June 14th, 2007 at 12:21 pm
Dalma

this is a great article. it’s like you read my mind! i’m going to europe on friday, and the flight will be 8 or 9 hours long. i was thinking of writing in for some tips on what to wear, but i guess you beat me to it. talk about perfect timing. thanks. :)

Posted on June 14th, 2007 at 7:27 pm
Jul

In my cabin luggage, I carry a no-messy, dressy scarf (as it’s sometimes very cold on the plane and at the airport – it also looks good!) and a change of underwear (especially for long transit breaks – 8 hrs sometimes – phew!). I also carry light, yet, fashionable cotton pants & a top, in case the connecting flight gets delayed or cancelled and you have to put up at the airport hotel, anyway, it does help for a quick change when you arrive at your destination!

Posted on June 25th, 2007 at 11:45 am

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