Airline travel just isn’t as glamorous as it used to be. Long lines, security checks and delays have pushed some of us to abandon all fashion rules and opt for the “unmade bed” look.
There’s no need to give up style for comfort. Clothing retailers and designers are now offering travel wear that doesn’t compromise on either.
“I just got sick of wearing sweatpants and sneakers when I traveled,” said Christine Walden, a computer consultant from Bel Air. “I finally invested in a few good pieces of travel clothing, and I now look like a human when I fly.”
Fabric selection is key when it comes to travel apparel.
“I look for fabrics that don’t wrinkle or fabrics that can be worn wrinkled like linen,” said Edye Sanford, a Baltimore fashion designer and owner of Designsfromtheedge.com. “I’m a natural-fiber girl. It’s still hard for me to not equate wearing man-made fibers to being wrapped up in a plastic bag.”
Ease of care and comfort are also important.
“Clothes should be washable and quick-drying, so they can be washed in a sink on the road and then be dry and crisp by morning,” said Lynn Staneff, marketing director of Magellan’s, an online travel supply company. “They also should be comfortable enough to sleep in on a 12-hour flight, without binding cuffs or waistbands.”
With new baggage surcharges, packability of clothing is a concern.
“We’re offering some new fabrics that are lightweight and take up minimal packing space,” said Staneff. “We even have some lightweight leather jackets that pack in about the same space as a regular shirt.”
Wardrobes that are coordinated also offer more fashion mileage. “I like a long skirt while traveling since it’s easy to dress it up or dress it down as needed,” said Sanford.
There’s no need, however, to sacrifice style for practicality.
“I have clients for whom I’ll make the same style dress in different fabrics and patterns just for travel versatility,” said Sanford. “This way they are guaranteed a style that’s flattering, comfortable and offers a variety of looks.”
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