Travel days: they too often start at an ungodly hour in the morning and drag you through a variety of temperamental climates and circumstances. So how does one dress in a way that’s functional, comfortable and still somewhat presentable throughout all of these variables? I’d like to think I’ve kind of mastered this art by now, so here are a few things you need to know.
But before I share, let me point out that a lot of these items are currently marked down significantly thanks to the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. If you’re not a current cardholder who gets early access to these particular items, you can check back in after July 19th for full access.
COMFORTABLE FLATS
Whether you’re traveling by plane, train, ferry, car, broomstick or any other vehicle, comfortable flats are a must. With that said, this doesn’t mean gym shoes are your only choice here. This can also be in the form of a loafer, a sandal, a ballet flat or a slide depending on the outfit you choose, but there are several reasons why I suggest against any kind of heel. In addition to heels being more cumbersome when it comes to metal detectors or any kind of security screening, they’re also generally uncomfortable (I don’t care if you are Carrie Bradshaw, don’t tell me you honestly think heels are an ideal footwear choice to schlep around a suitcase in).
COMFORTABLE + VERSATILE BOTTOMS
Sit. Stand. Stairs. Sprint to gate. Sit again. Stand again. Schelp your luggage… you get the picture. Travel days certainly aren’t the time to be wearing a mini-skirt or pants that are even remotely uncomfortable. I always love to wear leggings with some sort of detail that dresses it up a bit. Sure, you may have a zipper at the ankle or some sort of leather component, but you’re essentially wearing glorified yoga pants that are comfortable enough to sleep in. If leggings aren’t your thing, I love a boyfriend jean which wears a bit more loose and comfy than your skinnies. And if you really just want to be cozy AF, go for a jogger like these.
BASIC LAYERING SHIRTS
When your plane feels like a sub-zero Icelandic tundra but minutes later your cab to the city feels like a furnace occupied by Lucifer himself, light layers are the name of the game when it comes to maintaining a comfortable temperature… but where do you start at the base of all of that? I almost wear a basic tee that can be worn under a cardigan, scarf, light-jacket or on it’s own. If you’re feeling cheeky, go for a graphic tee like this, but a safe bet for me is always a classic stripe, which pairs well with just about any later you throw over it.
BLANKET SCARVES / WRAPS
Per my commentary above, a scarf or wrap is a great additional layer to throw on when someone gets a bit too carried away with the AC. I love these because you can wrap it around your neck or your entire body if you want to wear it, but they also come in handy for a blanket you can snuggle up in on a plane. Pay attention to the material and weight of the fabric depending on the time of year you’re traveling (wool is a bit aggressive in the summer, but a light-weight cashmere will pretty much always be your best friend).
Surprise! More ways to layer. Cozy cardigans are a must in my opinion (I seem to always go for long ones that feel like a robe and can double as a blanket if needed.) Even if it’s 100 degrees outside and you’re convinced there is no way you’ll need a sweater… bring one. They’re light enough to not weigh down your bag if you don’t need it but will be a game changer if you do.
LIGHT JACKET OR SWEATSHIRT
Sometimes interchangeable with a cardigan or oversized wrap/scarf, a light jacket or sweatshirt can also make a great final addition to top off your layering. This time of year we don’t need a parka, but having some sort of thicker shell from a denim or utility jacket can provide not only an additional layer for warmth if needed, but also double as a shield if you get caught in unexpected rain.
T-SHIRT DRESSES
Acting as another base layer, I’m a huge fan of t-shirt dresses. Not only are they cool and breezy for warm summer travel days, they also mean you don’t have to wear pants, which I’m always a big fan of. I’d definitely advise bringing a couple layers if you opt for this base, as my legs almost always get cold on a plane when I go for this look.
Looking for some other essentials for your upcoming travel day? Be sure to check out my blog reviewing my favorite travel bags or check out the “Shop Travel Gear” section of my site for some of my “can’t live without” items.
Thanks as always for stopping by... I’m excited to share a lot more travel essentials with you in the near future with all of my upcoming adventures!
xx
Whitney
