Looking good while traveling can be a challenge, especially when flying. Unlike the slow paced hotel style accommodations of a cruise ship, or the flexibility of a driving yourself on a road trip, flying comes with its own set of challenges. From long lines to security checks to the tiny cramped space in an aircraft, comfort is key. However, comfort doesn’t have to come in the form of sweat pants and flip flops. Here are a few tips to keep you looking stylish even as you take the red eye cross country.

1. KEEP IT SIMPLE

This isn’t the time to wear your spike heels or mini skirt. And unless you’re heading to a business meeting right off the plane, you don’t have to wear a business suit either. Keep your color scheme neutral. Black leggings and a chambray top, tank, or cardigan. You can even wear a soft knitted poncho (because airplanes can be a bit chilly). Keep it to 3 basic pieces (bottom, top, cardigan). If you must accessorize, a simple scarf will do. Don’t bother with belt. You’ll have to take it off at security, anyway.

2. WEAR COMFY SHOES

Ballet flats work well in this situation, or even soft booties. Don’t forget the socks or peds! The last thing you want to do is have to take your shoes off at security and walk through the metal detector barefoot!

3. PUT YOUR HAIR UP

Wrap your hair in a stylish scarf to keep it out of the way and in place. Airplane seats are known for not being very kind to the back of your head, and if you end up sleeping in a strange position your hair might end up looking worse than if you hadn’t bothered with it at all. You could even try a top-knot and a bandana to keep the strays away!

4. SUNGLASSES

Not only do they function well as a last minute eye mask, they will hide any tiredness your eyes will show if you happen to fly the red-eye.

5. PURSE

A large stylish tote can function as a carry on and hold any accessories you don’t want to wear on the plane. If you need to change your shoes after landing, you can keep them with you. Any touch up supplies such as your makeup, baby wipes and toothbrush can be kept close at hand, as well as a spare outfit and a clutch purse! In addition, a crossbody purse can also keep your wallet and phone close to you.

6. JEWELRY

Don’t bother wearing your very best jewelry. It can get lost while traveling and you’ll never get it back. Time to invest in some inexpensive dupes. Go for cubic zirconia instead of diamonds, simple necklaces and delicate costume pieces.

7. KEEP YOUR SKIN HYDRATED

The air on a plane can be very dry, so keep a small tube of moisturizer with you, as well as some lip balm or gloss. Drink plenty of water as well.
THINGS TO AVOID

1. Avoid clothes that wrinkle.
2. Avoid clothes that are too tight.
3. Avoid traveling in your pajamas.
4. Avoid wearing white – traveling can be long and delays are frequent. It’s too much to keep your sanity while trying to keep your clothes clean.

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