The ultimate travel dilemma: how to look chic and feel comfortable during a long flight or multi-hour drive. Fashion experts agree that with a little planning, you can achieve both. Here are their essential tips for mastering travel-day style.
Prioritise Breathable Fabrics
The foundation
of any comfortable travel outfit is the fabric. Experts consistently recommend materials that are soft, breathable, and have a bit of stretch. Natural fibers like cotton, modal, and bamboo blends are excellent choices as they allow air to circulate and feel soft against the skin for hours. Cashmere is another favourite for its luxurious softness and warmth without bulk. For bottoms, look for Ponte knits or trousers with some spandex or elastane, which offer structure without the restrictive feel of stiff denim. Many stylists now favour matching knit sets in materials like a modal or cashmere blend, which look deliberate and polished while offering the comfort of pyjamas. Wrinkle-resistant fabrics like jersey knits or even some modern polyesters are also smart choices to ensure you look fresh upon arrival.
Master the Art of Smart Layering
Airplane cabins and car interiors are notorious for fluctuating temperatures. One minute you're warm, the next you're reaching for a blanket. The solution, according to every expert, is strategic layering. Start with a comfortable base layer, like a soft cotton t-shirt or tank top. Add a mid-layer like a lightweight cardigan, a zip-up cashmere jumper, or a relaxed-fit sweatshirt. Your outermost layer should be versatile; a classic blazer, a lightweight trench coat, or a utility jacket can instantly elevate a simple outfit of leggings and a tee. A large scarf or wrap is perhaps the most recommended travel accessory, as it can double as a blanket or pillow, adding a layer of warmth and style when needed.
Choose Bottoms with Stretch and a Soft Waistband
Sitting for extended periods means your choice of trousers is critical. Experts advise against anything too tight, stiff, or with a waistband that digs in. Stiff denim is often a 'what not to wear' item. Instead, opt for joggers, high-quality leggings, or wide-leg trousers in a soft, stretchy knit. Pants with a drawstring or elasticated waist are ideal. Dark colours are often suggested as they are more forgiving of spills and wrinkles that can happen during travel. While some experts caution against wide-leg pants that could drag on airplane bathroom floors, others praise them for their freedom of movement. Ultimately, the key is a relaxed fit that doesn't restrict circulation.
Rethink Your Footwear for Comfort and Practicality
Navigating airports often involves a lot of walking, and your feet can swell during a long flight. Comfortable and practical shoes are nonstoppable. The best options are easy to slip on and off for security checks and inflight comfort. Stylish sneakers, loafers, ballet flats, and Chelsea boots are all expertapproved choices. It's also wise to wear your heaviest shoes on the plane to save space and weight in your luggage. Many frequent flyers also recommend packing a pair of compression socks for flights over four hours to aid circulation and reduce swelling. You can wear them discreetly under your trousers.
Accessorise with Purpose
While comfort is king, accessories are what pull a travel outfit together and add a touch of personal style. A stylish, structured tote bag is not only chic but practical for carrying all your essentials like a water bottle, lip balm, and an extra layer. A monochrome outfit in black, navy, or grey can be instantly elevated with a pop of colour from a bag or a scarf. Wearing your bulkiest coat or jacket saves significant luggage space and keeps you prepared for your destination's climate. Even a simple baseball cap or a pair of oversized sunglasses can make you look more puttogether after a long journey.
