If you’re lucky enough to be heading to far away climes this summer, your first thoughts are naturally going to turn to what you’ll wear for days lounging poolside, sightseeing days out and evening bar-hopping.
But if you’ve ever sat on an eight-hour flight with a pair of jeans digging into your stomach, you’ll want to read this before you go any further with outfit planning, as your flight look is one of the most important you’ll have to consider over the course of your holiday.
I’d argue it even sets the tone for your whole break. A speedy, easy airport situ means you’re in a good mood as you board, and a comfortable stint watching dodgy movie after dodgy movie over the course of a full day means you’ll exit the plane and begin your summer hols in a good mood too.
So, what should you wear to ensure a lovely long-haul flight? And is there a way to combine fashion and function, I hear you cry? The short answer, absolutely yes.
The pieces to buy:
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These are the outfit ideas to know and the pieces to buy. These looks all work for short flights too, of course, since whether you’re flying to Amsterdam or Australia, comfort should take priority.
Stylish long haul flight outfit inspiration
The luxe co-ord
If you’re hoping to get an upgrade (and who isn’t) then this is the look to go for. It’s giving ‘I fly long haul all the time’. A matching set takes the stress out of getting ready too, ideal if you’re catching a red-eye or looking for your passport while the Uber’s outside.
Go for a block colour as the minimal vibe adds to the premium feel – white is for the most brave (and business class ticket holders) among us, but camel, navy or teal are slick alternatives. Team with chunky dad sandals and stash a pair of cashmere socks in your hand luggage.
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The casual comfy look
If you don’t like the thought of veering from your usual attire for the sake of a flight, then you’ll be pleased to know there are a few style tweaks to make to your everyday looks that’ll deem them fit for flying.
Your giant Monday-Friday tote is perfect here: you can bring everything from a change of clothes (if you’re heading somewhere boiling) to your clear bag of liquids with ease. Taking off your shoes at security can feel like a chore, so a slip-on pair that are properly stylish is a must, while a trench is an easy-to-stash lightweight layer that you can wear on chilly evenings when you get there.
Swap your usual jeans for leggings and throw a vest on under a shirt for extra protection against aggressive air conditioning.
The elevated loungewear look
Frequent flyers will head straight to loungewear territory for a seven-hours or more stint. If you have plans to curl up (as much as is physically possible on those tiny plane seats) and listen to a podcast series, there’s no better option than super-soft joggers or leggings.
Soft, cosy layers that aren’t restrictive in any way will allow you to sit comfortably, but stick to a neutral or monochrome colour palette so that you look stylish rather than scruffy.
Add a pair of clean trainers and a leather shoulder bag to elevate the look.
The It cosy aesthetic look
If Insta-ready outfits are your thing, the airport should also be your runway. Wear a jersey shorts set (Zara and H&M do the best ones) then focus all your attention on It accessories. Think a cap (for incognito vibes), cult trainers like New Balance 530s or Adidas Sambas and gold jewellery.
Your outfit will is technically comfort-first, but with a fashion-forward vibe you’ll definitely turn heads. When you arrive at your destination, you’ll be suitably dressed to head straight out to scope the area.
The boujee tracksuit look
Forget trainers with a tracksuit. The most boujee flyers among us know that chunky sandals are the ultimate pairing. Trade them for cosy socks once the seatbelt sign is off, and wear a T-shirt bodysuit underneath so that you’re dressed for your destination on arrival.
It’s not just any old tracksuit that’ll do, however. A cult label like Pangaia, Adanola or Frankie Shop is a must, as is barely-there makeup and a designer bag. It’s loungewear with an expensive twist.
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