What to Wear: The Airport

Michael Kors; F/W 2005 Campaign; Erin Wasson

Packing for a week’s worth (or more) of some fabulous getaway, whether it be in the exotic islands, in Europe, etc. is equally exciting as it is antagonizing. With perfect ensembles envisioned in overly excited minds, we pack with extra care so that we’re over-prepared with chic outfits. But it’s what to wear to the airport and on that airplane that stumps us all, regardless of how fashionably aware we make ourselves out to be. All the fabulous clothes are either packed away or too nice to let wrinkle with hours of sitting at airports or on a flight—or simply not comfortable enough. So what to wear?

Dressing in heels and pencil skirts with perfectly slicked hair is not entirely necessary, contrary to the jet-setting Erin Wasson. You are free to do so, but sometimes dressing up can truly be a hassle and prove to be an inconvenience, especially during those red-eye flights. Airport and plane seats are not the most comfortable, obviously, so your personal comfort should be maximized to its fullest potential.

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Keep in Mind…

The airplane ride is not the only time spent sitting for hours; you’ll be waiting at the terminal for a considerable amount of time as well. So comfort is important! Heels the likes should be avoided; if you insist on wearing something that gives you a boost of height, chunkier heels or boots are advised as an alternative to pumps. Otherwise, flat shoes are ideal. And layering is key!

Avoid anything that is easily wrinkled or requires dry-cleaning; long tees/tunics/dresses/cardigans/etc. do look lovely, but become quite the opposite when you leave the plane with the fabric wrinkled around your derriere.

Necessities

image sources: tfs, le fashion // click for a larger view!

Regardless of the destination, I always have a few key pieces that have become my airport staples.

• Cardigan. Your best friend. The perfect article of clothing that keeps you warm in terminals and airplanes with the air-conditioning on full blast, yet cool enough to step outside into the tropics without sweating profusely. It’s lightweight, making it easy to wear sans the bulkiness or roll up and stuff into your carry-on should it get too hot.
• Scarf. Another must have. Scarves are surprisingly practical in keeping you warm. But their practicality and many uses make it all the more necessary to bring aboard: (1) Scarves instantly chic-ify your outfit, regardless of what your wearing. Somehow, it gives a sense of poise and sophistication. (2) They’re quite warm! (3) They work nicely as neck rests/pillows when rolled up. (4) They work equally as well as blankets, only a bit smaller in size.
• Loose tees. The easiest way to look effortlessly chic whilst remaining comfortable. Layer them on; a tee over a white tank, covered by a lovely cardigan or blazer. You can always strip down to the last layer if it should ever get too hot to bear!
• Leggings/Stretchy Jeans. Basically anything with stretch is the way to go. Fitted pants always polish up an outfit, juxtaposing nicely with the looser top(s). Leggings are, however, more comfortable. But be sure that they are completely opaque!
• Knee-high leather boots. Warm, comfortable, easy to wear, and basically weather-proof. The perfect shoes to run in if you happen to be late catching a flight!
• Sunglasses. Why? So that you maintain an air of that mysterious who-is-that-sophisticated woman/is-she-someone-famous. And to shield your lack of makeup/smudged makeup/puffy eyes or simply to avoid awkward stares with other passengers.
• Blazers. They provide warmth whilst giving your entire airplane ensemble a polished, sophisticated look. And they’re perfect for layering.
• Flats. If you’re headed for an exotic vacation spot, flats allow for ventilation on the plane but enough coverage to keep you warm, simultaneously preventing your feet from getting hot flashes in the Caribbean sun.
• Cashmere Wrap. For that sophisticated, luxurious look that doubles as a blanket.

In the Carry-On

• Magazines & books. You will need them! And there is no better time to acquaint yourself with the latest trends/happenings in the fashion world.
• Chapstick, lotion, makeup. For touch-ups when your flight is near its end, or if you happen to be so lucky as to sit next to a handsome, single man. Liner, mascara, some powder foundation, and concealer (for those undereye circles!). Lipgloss is equally essential.
• Oil-blotting papers or face-wash cloths. To refresh yourself and look presentable.

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bisous,

La C.