If you’re looking for a quick, easy way to get dressed this weekend, pick up some of these smart pieces from the brands below. You can always layer it over other outfits, or wear it in its own right. In this post, we’ll help you decide which pieces are best suited for your flight style and travel seasonHow to pack: I’ve come a long way from packing my bag in such a way that it could fit into airplane carry-on bags, but I’ve got one important lesson to share with you. When packing for an international flight, or any trip that’s going anywhere at all — especially somewhere hot — your clothes will get dirty! So always take appropriate clothing.
outfits to wear on plane
With the summer holidays around the corner, working out what to wear on a plane can be a sartorial nightmare, particularly if you’re on a long-haul flight or heading from cool climes to warm weather.
When it comes to plane outfits, the journey is by no means a runway show. But whether you’re jetting off with friends and family, or going on a work assignment, the trip starts as soon as you hit the airport, so wanting to look your best is perfectly understandable. While many opt for the best joggers – comfort is certainly key if you’re getting on a long-haul flight, it’s also a good idea to consider the time and weather in your final destination. Your best loungewear might feel cozy on the flight, but if you’re stepping off into the midday sun, you might want to rethink.
What to wear on a plane will very much come down to individual taste, but pulling some wardrobe essentials from your capsule wardrobe as a basis could be a good place to start. Some of the best dresses in jersey fabric can make great travel partners, but if you’re loyal to your best t-shirt and jeans combination, think about more relaxed leg fits or denim with stretch, so you can feel more at ease on the journey. Planes can also get quite cold, so don’t be afraid to sharpen up your look with one of your best hoodies or a chic oversized blazer for extra style and warmth. You’ll also want to carefully consider your accessories. With hand luggage at a premium and with shoes needing to be removed for airport security, think about the ergonomics of your outfit. Can your shoes slip on and off easily? Will your bag fit under your seat or in the overhead locker and can you get those essentials in there?
To help you navigate this tricky task, we’ve compiled a useful guide and breakdown of outfit possibilites.
WHAT TO WEAR ON A PLANE ACCORDING TO FASHION EDITORS
Whether it’s work or play, what to wear on a plane has no easy answer. There are so many elements of the day to consider, particularly if you’re going on a long-haul or night flight. Whatever you decide on, keep comfort as the focal point, and use the styling tips laid out below as a way to add polish to your finished look.
Consider the time of day and temperature at your final destination and if you’re heading straight to your accommodation or if you’re going directly into a meeting or social setting. Airports generally involve a lot of walking, so make sure you have comfortable flats, as you don’t want to be sprinting for final boarding in your best designer heels.
It’s always a good idea to take a decent size hand luggage, such as one of the best totes with spare essentials, such as your best underwear, so that if anything happens to your suitcase at the other end, you at least have the necessities. If you’re checking into a resort earlier than the arrival time, you might also want to have spare swimwear in your hand luggage, so you can check your bags at reception and head straight to the pool.
1. LOUNGEWEAR
Athleisure remains a big fashion trend 2022, as designers continue to use sports-luxe as a guiding principle for many key looks. The best leggings, joggers and sweatshirts are all great choices for what to wear on a plane, but to keep the style factor high, opt for coordinating two pieces with more directional cuts. Think wide-leg, soft jersey trousers, and matching sweatshirts for an outfit that works for both comfort and design. To keep your hair neat, investigate how to wear headbands and pair your coord with a soft fabric hairband that you can easily remove and fold away into your hand luggage if needed. Slip a lightweight jersey tee into your holdall if heading to hot climes, as you can easily pop this on at the other end and tie your jumper around your waist.
what to wear on a plane in summer
Itching to travel? Aren’t we all. It’s been a long haul, but as COVID vaccines continue to roll out, travel restrictions and guidelines are relaxing, too. In April 2021, the CDC lifted certain testing and self-quarantine requirements for fully vaccinated people traveling domestically. In turn, more Americans are returning to the skies. While it doesn’t look like we’ll be traveling completely maskless anytime soon (for the best, TBH), there are plenty of other ways to stay healthy and cozy mid-flight. Take it from somebody who knows a thing or two about what to wear on a plane.
Elena Eberwein, a Boston-based flight attendant for American Airlines, is here to help you choose the right ‘fit for your flight. With three years of professional air travel under her belt, Eberwein is a pro when it comes to dressing comfortably on an airplane. Below, her tips for staying safe and stylish at 30,000 feet.
Here’s exactly what to wear on a plane (and what to leave in your suitcase), according to a flight attendant.
Comfort comes first, but know the rules
Even when she’s not working, Eberwein has to abide by an American Airlines dress code. No, she doesn’t have to wear her uniform when traveling for leisure—but certain in-flight style staples are off limits for her, including ripped denim, sweatpants, and… leggings. (Gasp!)
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Despite the rules, she insists comfort comes first. “I always wear a pair of black jeans or jeggings—something that has some stretch,” Eberwein says. “Something neutral, but definitely comfortable, that can pass for real pants.”
Luckily, those of us non-flight attendants can get away with a classic pair of black leggings. But we do technically have our own dress code to abide by. These vary from airline to airline, but for the most part, nothing that could be considered offensive is allowed on the plane. “Don’t wear anything with profanity on it or you could get kicked off the flight,” she says. “That’s just an easy way to make sure you have an easier time.”
Layer up
If you’re heading to sunny Palm Springs or Miami Beach, it might be tempting to wear a cute sundress and flip-flops. But Eberwein advises against it. “A lot of people dress for the place that they’re going, not considering that the plane is also going to be a place they’ll be,” she says. “Planes are cold, so I recommend layering up.”
If you want to be comfortable mid-flight, trade in that slip dress for a sweatshirt. Eberwein recommends wearing a T-shirt or a long-sleeve shirt as a base layer, then adding a sweater or a light jacket on top. Need some suggestions? The Someone Somewhere LifeProof Pullover ($69) is stain and odor-resistant (so no more post-flight smells). If you want to keep germs from hitching a ride to your hotel, look for an antimicrobial jacket. Yeah, a few layers might add some extra bulk in the middle seat, but once that A.C. kicks on, you’ll be grateful you left your summer clothes in your suitcase.
Always wear closed-toed shoes
Back to those flip flops—I know they’re easy to kick off when going through security. But once you’re on the plane, you’ll probably wish you had on something a little less exposed.
“I always tell people don’t wear open-toed shoes,” Eberwein says. As we know, airplanes are pretty germy places, and wearing sandals or slides without socks might increase your chances of coming in contact with something funky. Instead, a pair of sneakers or slip-on booties will do juuust fine.
A mask is your best accessory
Yes, plushy neck pillows and dreamy sleeping masks can turn any flight into a first-class experience. But in the age of COVID-19, a face mask is your best friend. Eberwein has a separate mask she wears when she’s in uniform that matches her chic American Airlines neck scarf. But when she’s off the clock, a simple cotton mask does the trick. “One with an adjustable ear is definitely ideal for long periods of time, since you have to be able to easily lift and lower your mask to eat and drink,” she says.
When you do return to the skies, you’ll probably have a lot of things on your mind—but with these expert tips, what to wear on a plane won’t be one of them.
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