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Yes, I know we all want to be comfortable. Flights are overcrowded, the food is terrible and the seats get smaller with every flight—the airlines don’t seem to care so why should we? With this attitude at the very least, we imagine, we are going to be comfortable when we travel no matter what others may think. I hear you but let me try to talk you off the ledge.

I am all for comfort but that does not mean I am going to throw on a pair of sweats, slip my feet into a pair of flip flops, and grab my fleece hoodie on the way out my door. The fact is an airport, with its troves of travelers, is most likely a place where you might run into your co-worker, long-lost friend or future lover and that my friends is reason enough to have your styling groove on.

All of this not withstanding, when you take the time to dress up a little you are more approachable. Are you grabbing a bite before you depart at a restaurant near your gate? You just might get better service. The same goes for the service you receive on your flight. My motto is,”Style because they rarely see your personality first.”

These are no longer the days when dressing up means wearing your favorite heels—those days are long gone. But neither should you feel it is okay to wear flip flops. First, those floors on the plane and in the airport are nasty and second, no one wants to see your feet when you cross your legs in their direction. 

It’s not impossible to have it both ways—comfort and style. It’s simply a matter of planning your inflight outfit.

Your Bottoms

I understand your love for athleisure wear and certainly a long haul flight requires a more relaxed fit but looking as though you just came from the gym isn’t anyone’s best look. However, If you are only in the mood for a slim lycra look there are plenty of pants that fit the bill. And, of course, black is your best bet—it will go with anything and stains are less likely to show.

Your Tops

I have a collection of simple tees in prints and solids that I choose from when I am planning my airport style. During the spring and summer months I prefer a lighter weight print for solids in cotton or rayon. During the fall and winter months I usually wear a light cashmere tee with a loose fit.

An Extra Sweater

Here’s the thing. You may be on your way to the tropics but your plane ride just might feel like you are headed to Antarctica. Take along a cardigan either in cotton or cashmere depending on the season. In addition that sweater will come in handy when you get to your destination.

A Travel Wrap

Like I mentioned you just don’t know what the temperature on the plane will be and the days of airlines having blankets available in coach are over (however, in the event they do offer blankets it’s best to use them only as a lumbar support. My sources tell me they are rarely washed). 

Your Shoes

Thankfully, sneakers are a fashionable item theses days and wearing them is certainly fine but during the warmer months I prefer a loafer. They are easy to put on and take off and they are a bit more stylish. During the cooler months I opt for boots. They are not as effortless when you go through security but they will free up the room they take in your luggage and always look dressier than your sneaks.

Your Jacket 

First you are going to need one regardless of the weather. . .a light cropped jacket for the spring and summer or a heavier jacket or coat for the fall and winter months. You can never go wrong with a trench but if you are not a fan of the trench coat or short denim jacket there are so many other great styles.  But remember to keep your style classic.

Eat well, laugh a lot, and travel chic!