We get the allure of celebrity airport fashion. There’s just something so ritzy about stepping foot in a foreign land while clad in a chic ensemble worthy of Victoria Beckham. Unfortunately, we mere mortals are, excuse the pun, not on the same plane.
Which do we choose: Comfort or style? When we go with the former, we look sluggish in our pajama-esque ensemble. But when we opt for the latter…well, let’s just say we have our circulation-hindering leather skinnies to blame for the inner thigh chafing.
How then do we nail the sartorial sweet spot where sensible, envy-inducing travel looks thrive? For one, these 10 travel accessories we’ve rounded up will do the trick in striking the perfect cozy-cool balance. Check off every item on this list, and you’re bound to pull off your next overseas trip in style.
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The secret to avoid looking schlubby is to go for an outerwear with built-in structure. Whether it’s a boxy motorcycle jacket or a stiff felted jacket, the combination of sharp and soft makes for an immaculate polished look. This burnt orange jacket kindles blithe seventies spirit, and is a great in-flight choice for layering up against the AC.
Chloe Oversized Jacket, $2,093
Compression tights and thick socks can help keep swelling to a minimum during long haul flights. They’re also a more comfortable alternative to stiff skinny jeans, and a stylish counterpart to jeggings.
These “Power Legend’ leggings from Nike has a high-rise waistband, ventilating perforated panel and flat contoured seams. Style this with a sleek sports bar and windbreaker, and you’ve got your ‘off-duty model‘ look down.
Nike Stretch Leggings, $87.88
We’re not here to tell you that sweatpants are a cardinal travel no-no. As long as you’re wearing them as you would a pair of trousers (with a pair or proper boots and a sophisticated crop top), your look will still appear trim and polished. In fact, we recommend going all out with the athleisure trend by rocking pieces in sweatshirt material such as jersey or Spandex. Such exercise-friendly materials are lightweight and breathable – in other words, they’re perfect for travel.
Vetements Track Pants, $553.62
Printed skirts are less prone to showing evident grime or creasing. So it’s only to your advantage to opt for skirt with an all-over pattern so that you won’t have to consciously sit tight for enduringly painful hours. Heck, you can even toss and turn freely in your sleep and your outfit will stay remain wrinkle-free!
Zara Pleated Midi Skirt, $59.90
Don’t underestimate the practicality of a throw-on-and-go dress. A knitted dress that’s got a sophisticated cut is a great one-piece wonder for travelling. Don’t scrimp on your choice of knits – opt for soft, plushy cashmeres or risk having to bear with itchiness and scratchiness for the long haul flight.
The Elder Statesman Cashmere Dress, $1,010.49
There are innumerable functions to the trusty blanket scarf. You can bundle it up and use it as a makeshift pillow or wrap yourself in it when you’re feeling chilly. They also come in handy if you’re travelling to a colder climate (and vice versa) as they’re perfect for layering up, and convenient to carry around.
H&M Blanket Scarf, $17.99
If you’ve got plenty of legroom on flights, you can probably get away with a bulky tote. But for those of us with limited space (or, if we’re cursed with the dreaded middle seat), a backpack with a zipper top will grant us easy access to all our belongings.
Tote bags or heavy purses can also induce shoulder pain (ugh, as if travelling itself wasn’t taxing enough on our bodies!). But a cute, stylish backpack will do the trick for a pain-free globetrotting experience.
Charles & Keith Backpack, $79.90
Loafers are sleek and professional, but the best part is, they’re really easy to slip on as well. They’re basically an upgraded version of slippers. Gucci’s version of the loafer pumps are set on a stacked block heel which has a collapsible back which allows you to style them as slippers – rendering it the most perfect plane shoe we’ve ever seen. For added comfort, wear this with a pair of footie socks.
Gucci Pumps, $911.06
A good pair of white low-top kicks are the footwear equivalent of the Little Black Dress; they’re an absolute must-have in every style-conscious woman’s closet. Not only will these Roger Vivier slip-ons make getting through the security line a breeze, you’ll also look extra glamorous with that crystal-emblazoned bling.
Roger Vivier Sneakers, $1,532