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Your favorite traveling outfit?

Scarlet

Veteran

I have a couple long-haul flights coming up, and it is making me wonder what people like to wear these days when they travel. We will be flying overnight with small kids, so my aim will be to look put-together but comfortable and not easily stained. If anyone wants to share your preferences or favorite tips, I am all ears. For myself, I am currently scouting bralettes (a la Angie's recent post) or a wireless bra and maybe some new pants that are nice and non-constricting in the waist (thinking of today's blog post).

Dressing

38 replies

Latest reply was from LaPed

JAileen

Veteran

When our son lived in Turkey, we visited, in winter. I wore pants like these from Lands End. I also wore a long sleeve cotton tee, a Patagonia Nanopuff, and a scarf. I may have had a vest, too. I wore hiking shoes. When I went to the restroom, I tucked my pants into my socks, so they wouldn’t touch the floor. It kind of gross after 13 or 14 hours.

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taylor

Veteran

Hi Scarlet,
I like flying in black Ponte knit pants . They are extremely comfortable, move with me , and are warm enough on the plane. I always carry socks because my feet freeze too. I also always bring a swear shirt , or sweater I can pull on easily .
Slip on Sketcher type sneakers are light weight and easy to get off and on when checking in.
Safe travels

Bennett

Veteran

I second the ponte pants tip. Mine are slim and as comfortable as leggings but they are not shrink-wrapped to your legs. I run cold so I like an oversize pullover sweater over a long-sleeved tee. Usually flats, sometimes sneakers. Slouchy socks in my purse for cold feet.

sylvie55

(website)

Eileen Fisher stretch crepe pants or Athleta Brooklyns, slim stretchy tank or tee, long cardigan sweater, oversized scarf that can double as a wrap if air conditioning is too intense, slip-on sneakers, big bag as my 2nd carryon with a small crossbody bag tucked inside.

shiny

Veteran

It depends on the season (hot or cold) but my favorite travel clothing items are:

1. Ponte knit pants
2. EF slim ankle crepe pants
3. Joggers (I got mine from Anthro, they are sweat pant material)
4. Heavier weight cotton maxi dress, with a set of silk long johns to slip underneath if needed
5. Ponte knit blazer or fleece Athleta Prayana wrap or zip hoodie sweatshirt
6. Cashmere poncho or cashmere wrap
7. EF skirted leggings (no longer have these, but they were great for travel)
8. Allbirds sneakers - or other shoes with laces as they can be adjusted if my feet swell (I've got TSA pre so don't have to take off my shoes)
9. Pair of disposable hospital socks, the kind with grippies. They are machine washable but if they get too gross I can toss them out.
10. Packable nano puffer
11. Bralette for sure
12. Leggings with a short dress over

Style Fan

Veteran

I would wear my Lululemon pants. They look like nice joggers. Then I would add a T-shirt (long or short depending on the weather). I would then wear a cashmere hoodie or put it in my carry on. I also would bring a vest.
If it was cooler weather and I had ponte pants, I would wear those and the above.

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Caslon Long Sleeve Scoop Neck Cotton Tee

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Extra Mile Vest

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Gretchen

Veteran

My long haul uniform is:
Short sleeve tee
Long sleeve sweater (cashmere or cotton depending on season) preferably tunic length
Large colorful scarf
Ponte knit pants
Ballet flats

I also bring compression socks to wear during the flight.

I try to keep jewelry minimal, or something I can remove (and easily keep track of) when I’m ready to sleep.

I will also often bring a light jacket and keep in with my personal item in case I need more than a blanket.

The Cat

Veteran

Long pants/jeans in a medium or dark color. Short-sleeved pullover or nice T-shirt. Short necklace. Cardigan and shawl/scarf (these 2 items may not be worn all the time, but I like to have them ready in my hand luggage). Low-heeled, closed-toe shoes. Light cotton or wool socks, depending on the temperature.

In my hand luggage, I will also bring a light extra top plus a set of underwear--just in case I experience an "accident" or my checked-in suitcase is delayed ...

Eliza

Veteran

Happy travels to you. I always like a comfortable pair of pants, pockets and long length, even in summer because planes are often chilly, easy walking shoes and a scarf for warmth and wrapping higher than my neck if I hear a lot of sickness nearby, a warm soft topper, and easy access to my necessities (medications, dry eye drops and tiny noise cancelling earbuds/earphones). I have a tiny bag for stuff I want on my person throughout the flight (https://www.mzwallace.com/shop.....19491.html) and have used infinity scarves with a zip pocket built-in (not exact, there lots of choices: http://www.amazon.com/Zipper-H.....AF3&k. ) I also bring a well-organized bag for under the seat in front of me, with additional things and often put that bag in a protective bag as planes can be dirty.

Runs With Scissors

Veteran

When I traveled to India last year I wore Athleta Gramercy track pants. Despite being "athleisure", I don't feel that they look all that sporty, at least on me. And they are lightweight and completely non-binding in any way. On top I wore a rayon striped t-shirt, and a hoodie -- nothing special. And a sports bra, I think. Shoes were some well broken-in Dansko oxfords.

I was really worried that I would be uncomfortable, especially on such long flights, but it wasn't so bad. I did take a couple of long stretch breaks in the open area near the emergency exits, and that helped a lot.

Gap Gramercy Track Trouser

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by Runs With Scissors

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Lucy

Veteran

Australians are good at the long haul flights! Last year I did the UK and NYC for work, and both were around 32 hours door to door...

I am a fan of stretchy jeans with a forgiving waist band, because they seem to stay "cleaner" than ponte or leggings, especially important for anything 12 plus hours.

I wear a singlet top, bralette (no underwire), and a fairly polished looking long sleeve t-shirt. I wear my coat on top - depending on the weather at the destination, wool coat, puffer or blazer. That way, I look presentable at either end.

For the really long flights, I pack a hoodie in my bag, to sleep in. I get quite cold, so I often need the hood bit! And also extra socks and a pashmina for warmth. And in reverse, if the flight is warm, I can strip off to singlet or t-shirt.

Joy

Veteran

I usually have plenty of black when traveling. I also like black Ponte pants and otherwise layer so I can be as comfortable as possible even if it is hot and the air conditioner does not work on a long flight ( this has happened. We had to sit in a hot plane in Rome for 12 hours before they let us back into the terminal for something to eat and finally put us on another plane. We issued all connecting flights and had to spend an overnight on the floor of the terminal in Dallas. Be prepared for anything.
On top I wear a black tank under a blouse under a sweater under my coat.
I put my carryon on the floor so my feet can rest on it. (more comfortable than dangling legs), I wear smart wool socks or footies and my heaviest pair of shoes...usually booties with zips for easy off and on.

Jaime

(website)

Veteran

We have been traveling with our kids since they were very young. It gets so much easier as they get older! A bag of surprises (activity workbooks and stickers worked for my kids) and favorite snacks were survival equipment.
Anyway, my essentials are shoes that slip on and off easily and socks, layers even in the summer, and a neck pillow. Good luck!

SarahD8

Veteran

I love skirt leggings for plane travel. Feels like you’re wearing leggings, but much more presentable!

nuancedream

Veteran

My airplane travel uniform is leggings and a tunic top or ponte knit pants with a long sleeve t-shirt. I always carry a lightweight shawl/wrap because I know aircraft cabins are notoriously cold and airline balnkets are less than hygenic...Eew! Also, regardless of where I am traveling, I wear closed toe shoes, not athletic shoes.

RainB

I find leggings and knit tunics the most comfortable for long haul flights. I've worn stretchy jeans and tops too but waistbands start bothering me after a while! Always with shoes that are easy to take on and off and two pairs of socks. Definitely not the msot well dressed traveller, comfort absolutely comes first. I also carry a light shawl or hoodie because I always feel cold

Barbara Diane

Veteran

I had my first freezing cold flight and my jacket was in the overhead compartment. As it was a bumpy flight and the seatbelt light was never turned off, I couldn't get it. Don't make that mistake.

Scarlet

Veteran

Thank you to everyone for all these great tips. I feel like the last flights I have been on ran hot, but these are good reminders to be prepared for either extreme. Layering is clearly the winning strategy. Due to the multiple mentions I am curious to try Eileen Fisher stretch crepe pants. I am also digging the idea of skirted leggings because they have all the comfort without special topper requirements. No judgement to those who wear leggings with short toppers, but I don’t feel comfortable like that. Lots of love for joggers too. I’ll keep my eyes open for a nice pair.

Another thing for me to consider, I hear Europe is suffering a terrible heatwave. I hope it is not going to be like that for long! I was planning on the more typical cooler summer.

JAileen, oh my goodness yes, the bathroom floor can get gross. I hate to think about it.

Taylor, I love the idea of slip on sneakers.

Eliza, I love that tiny MZ Wallace bag!

Lucy, 32 hours *shudder* You are a good traveler!

Joy, that sounds horrendous! I like your tip about resting your feet on your bag.

Shevia, neck pillow is a good call. In case you see this, do you use an inflatable one or microbead, or other recommendation?

Barbara Diane, that sounds miserable. I hope you didn’t get sick.

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Read this:

https://youlookfab.com/2017/08.....ng-flight/

Short flights are different, but I follow an outfit formula for long flights.

Stagiaire Fash

Veteran

Right now the heat is only forecast through the weekend, but in recent years Europe has had a couple heat waves every summer, so be sure to check forecasts before packing. Here in Berlin, this one will be in two parts—close to body temperature today, with 2 lovely days on the way, and then horribly hot this weekend. But mornings/ late evenings are still comfortable, even on the hot days. (When we arrived, we were told the 90+ temps weren’t cooling off at night. Coming from Tampa, we thought that meant not dropping below 80. Turns out nights around 70 were what they meant. This week it’ll be in the 60s every night, and 50s after some of the hot days.). Other parts of Germany are forecast to have high temps of 41 straight through. So make sure you check forecast for exactly where you are going and the days you’ll be there.

On topic, I seem to be the only one here who prefers dresses. Long ones, to be sure, so I can squirm, and jersey or sweater dresses depending on weather, so they don’t wrinkle. Whatever shoes I wear, I need to make sure I have socks because I take shoes off when I have to sit for a while. I agree with the above suggestion to take a big scarf so you don’t have to ask for a blanket.

Bon voyage & have fun!

Anonymous

I wear dresses too, FI, and walking sandals-as normally I travel in summer. For cold weather it would be ponte pants most likely.

LadyFashioniser

(website)

I love keeping things simple, of course everything depends on the season, but I mostly travel during Spring and Summer months, that's why I can describe my style as simple, casual and relaxed. I prefer to wear neutral color dresses, light layering and denim. Footwear I choose comfortable and try to match it with my bag or any other accessory. I wear minimum jewelry.

Anonymous

Can't speak to long haul flights, but I'm all about the upgrade potential on those 2-3 hour flights Smythe blazer, tank top or t-shirt , jeans, sneakers, scarf. That blazer works for me every time I don't get super cold so don't fuss about that part. I'm happier being a little chilly than I am being hot. I keep my shoes on, and never use the bathroom.

Sal

Veteran

For long haul I wear my Lululemon joggers with a tee and a soft jacket. The tee being merino helps. Usually flat shoes (trainers or loafers) and depending on the season I will either take socks on or wear them. I add a large scarf just in case and a spare pair of knickers and socks. The scarf could mask a spill and also keep me warm.

I would wear other things too such as jeans with stretch or thick leggings or a dress but my joggers are my go to. I usually do laundry on holidays and these are a quick drying solution. And can be dressed up for nights out.

On Emirates we were given travel socks and provided with blankets to use.

Other things - an empty water bottle, toothpaste (small tube) and moisturiser and a comb.

My children have always just loved the screens but a puzzle book or sudoku or similar can be fun for a mix up.

Hope it all goes well.

Cee

Veteran

Definitely a cowlneck sweater !!

elpgal

Veteran

Lisa P, you are a hoot!

I recently travelled in a long dress with knee length socks for the plane and a nice wool shawl and it was great! I don’t worry about the dirty airports and loos anymore, I travel with a massive pack of wipes to keep all the surfaces I touch clean.

Jaime

(website)

Veteran

Hi Scarlet - I have a Muji one I bought in an airport a few years ago. Inflatable is not for me, and, although I don't have especially sensitive skin I find that a lot of the material on these cushions irritate me. I picked mine for being pretty squishy and non-irritating. Also check the entertainment options on the flight before you leave. Since we usually don't fly direct, the "shorter" (4-6 hour) leg doesn't always have screens. We make sure everyone's device has something pre-loaded. Also don't forget physical reading material for take off and landing. My tradition is the Economist magazine.

bj1111

Veteran

Compression socks to avoid blood clots.

Scarlet

Veteran

Angie, thanks, I had forgotten that post.

Fashintern, when I first moved to Berlin many years ago, I used to make fun of the fact that people complained bitterly when the temperatures reached 80 F. Then I turned into that person. Three years in New York is starting to cure me, but it’s slow going. Thanks for the inside information. I hope you find a way to stay cool this weekend. I have never worn a dress on a plane that I can recall, but I can see doing so in a warm climate.

LadyFashioniser, I think my final choice is going to fit your description.

LisaP, you would be looking sharp!Sal, my next mission should be to find a pair of great joggers. Empty water bottle is a must! Thanks for the reminded. Sudoku might be fun for my older boy. I could try that.

Cee, I still haven’t found any.

Shevia, thanks for checking in and all the good info. Muji makes great stuff. I like the Economist too.

BJ, I was thinking about getting some. I figure it helps with fluid retention as well.

So, atypically, I was able to go shopping yesterday. On a whim I tried “jeggings” from Eileen Fisher, and they were really great. I would have aimed for a lower price point, but I was very impressed by the article I read in Inge’s post last week. recommended by Kkards (https://www.vogue.com/article/.....een-fisher) about the brand’s ethical operation. Flattering and plenty of room on the waist for me. I plan to pair them with a tank, tissue sweater, and heavy cotton cardigan. I’ll bring a scarf too, just in case. I didn’t find casual shoes I liked, so I may just go with my beloved Eccos.

Stretch Denim Leggings

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Ecco 'Soft 7' Cap Toe Sneaker

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