To travelistas, long-haul flights and travel in general are not excuses to sacrifice style for comfort. You won’t see me in my jammies even on a 10-hour flight. (And word to the wise, never wear Spanx on a plane!) I’m forever trying to strike the balance between chic and comfy.
While flip-flops are much better for walking around compared to stilettos, they are still absolute no-nos. Boots with socks are a suitable choice as they keep your toes warm and prevent your feet from attracting bacteria. Safety tip: Stuff cash into your socks while you travel!
Speaking of accessories to avoid when traveling, add belts and jewelry to the list from Kay. Although jewelry can add pizzazz to a simple ensemble, rings, bracelets and such will be a hassle to remove during the security check, much like a belt. If you must have jewelry, keep it to a minimum and don’t wear anything expensive (I lost my favorite ring in Iceland!) Oprah writer Amber Kallor also suggests that you forgo anything considered edgy, saving spiky embellishments for times that don’t involve a metal detector.
When deciding an outfit, it’s also vital to consider the stops you’ll make on the way to your destination. As a budget traveler, you’ll find that the most affordable itineraries often consist of long layovers, sometimes in the least ideal locations, though there are times we catch a break and land in a capital city or other destination with lots of sights to see. For example, a layover in Heathrow, the UK’s busiest airport according to parking price comparison website, Parking4Less, can connect you to London and other surrounding areas for a day trip. The parking aggregator also points out that even if you do opt to use the Heathrow Express, you’ll be in the center of London within 15 minutes, which probably isn’t enough to ruin your smart blouse.
If you’re venturing out of the airport for the day, you’ll want to be prepared. England is notoriously known for the rain, and being drenched can really dampen the experience or make you sick (read my tips for staying healthy when you travel!). To make the most out of the weather, have an umbrella handy, or if you feel that it’s too bulky, a thin, foldable raincoat is your alternative. Better safe than sorry.
I’ve worn this Steve Madden jacket all over the world. It ticks all my boxes in a travel piece: stylish, water-resistant, lightweight, and inexpensive.
Your footwear is also key to protecting yourself from the elements. Other than wearing walkable boots, think about the material. Suede is obviously not the suitable option in the rain, though rubber boots are a pain to stomp around in. Opt for the water-resistant boot, and if you don’t own a pair or have waterproofing spray, Diply has an at-home tutorial that you can refer to.
Keeping everything mentioned in mind, there are an endless number of ways that you can look chic while passing through airports. For some celebrity style inspiration, check out Who What Wear.
What apparel and accessories are your travel staples?
