Travel Style Essentials

Taking to the skies can be such a mixed bag. When on business trips, it can be a much needed diversion from the office or a stressful & uncomfortable ride. When traveling for pleasure, the flight to your destination is usually a breeze but coming home is often a dreaded task. Whether you like to fly or not, it always helps to make the best of flight. Make it as fabulous as possible and as enjoyable as possible. And while you’re at it, make it as fashionable as possible. Coach can become first class if you play your fashion flight cards right. Here are some fashion essentials that I cannot do without when airborne.

Cashmere Wrap

Not only does it serve as a luxurious element of style but it also comes in handy when chill sets in. You never know if the plane will be hot or cold so a removable piece like this is ideal. It’s also a great pillow if you fold it up nicely to mold to your neck. Those airline pillows are so akward

Pair of Shades

You are going to want these day or night. Trust me on this. Day time flights allow bright sunlight to come through and night time flights always impose those overhead reading lights on you whether you like it or not. Plus, this also gives a clear indication that you don’t want to speak to the drunken fool sitting next to you.

The softest cardigan you own

Cashmere is my fabric of choice but do wear whatever makes you feel at home. It’s important to layer when on a plane. Again, you never know if you are gonna get hot or cold. Have 2-3 layers that can be removed or added as needed.

Jersey Knit Pants

Be honest about it! Sweat pants look sloppy and you never know where you might end up so go with a fashionable alternative. You can find super cute pants that look like trousers but are made of Jersey knit. My choice was the wool jersey knit “Dara” pants by Diane Von Furstenberg. They felt like PJ’s but looked like classy wide-leg pants.

A fabulous ID case

Considering that you have to constantly have your tickets and ID in hand, why not have a fabulous ID case that compliments your personal style? If you like bling, then you can bling out your cigarette case or business card case. My case is actually chrome with detailed etching on it. I also have a Hello Kitty business card holder but I don’t show that one off so much.

Classic Tote

This is really not the time for a small bag or clutch. A large tote is perfect because you probably have Books, magazines, a sweater, bottled water, etc. Canvas is cool but I go for a large Leather tote because it’s Luxe all the way when I fly baby.

Fabulous iPod Case

Again, to some this may seem silly but surely a fashionista can appreciate a leather iPod case by Coach or a funky canvas one from a trendy store. It’s all in the accessories. Work them out!

Fabulous Flats or Low Heel Boots

Flats are just sooo fabulous these days. The options are endless so there is no excuse not to have great shoes in flight. Sneakers are clunky and you they just might make your feet hot. Low heeled boots can be great too. That is what I go with actually. As long as they are easy to get on and off, they are my flight footwear of choice.

An inspiring book or Fashion Magazine

I try to take both a book and magazine along. My top 3 fashion mags are Elle, Vogue and Bazaar. As far as books go, try to bring something that is fun or lite hearted. This is probably not the best time to read a tear jerker or scary thriller. Unless you are into that sort of thing.

Delicious Candy & Water

You definitely don’t want to have to wait around for beverage service. The air is dry and most of the time the food sucks. Buy your favorite candy or snack once you get through security. My personal favorite is Almond Joy. It’s absolutely divine and it feels like fashion for my mouth.

Journal/Notebook or Laptop & A colorful pen

If you are lucky enough not to have to lug around a laptop then consider bringing a great little notebook with a stylish design on the cover. The journals that come in leather or faux wood are really chic as well. Don’t forget a pen that will make you smile when you pull it out of your bag. Write down all the wonderful things you saw & did on your trip for future inspiration.