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FASHION

AIRPLANE MODE: WHAT TO WEAR ON YOUR NEXT FLIGHT

Wondering what to wear on a flight? You might already have a few ideas for your airport attire. You don’t need us to tell you: comfort’s key. But clothes for long-haul flying are very different from 'fits for a quick hop across Europe. Style still matters, and clever outfit choices can make all the difference. So, here are airport outfits for every take-off plan – because your plane’s not the only thing in need of a runway.
Spice Girls Mel C and Mel B at the Airport

Picture: Getty

Spice Girls Mel B and Mel C proving comfort is key when it comes to airport style. LA International airport, 1998.

WHAT TO WEAR ON A SHORT-HAUL FLIGHT

When a weekend city break in Europe is on the agenda, packing everything into your hand luggage may seem like the easiest option – but suitcase space is precious and it pays to have a strategy. Why not wear one of the outfits you packed for the weekend? It’s ideal if there are hours to spare before you can check in to your Airbnb, because you can go straight to the beach when you touch down instead. If you’re heading somewhere hot, wear a day dress to the departure lounge. The ultimate companion has to be Birkenstock sandals – they’re comfy and stylish, and mean one less item taking up space in your hand luggage.

WHAT TO WEAR ON A LONG-HAUL FLIGHT

When it comes to clothes for long-haul flight outfits, comfort’s a non-negotiable. Even if you’re going somewhere tropical, the cabin’s climate has a mind of its own, so long layers will be your best friend. Enter the matching tracksuit and co-ords. You can’t get more classic than an adidas set – this one is knitted from cotton, so it’s comfy enough to sleep in, but you’ll still look put-together. Just add chunky trainers (Superstars, naturally), a travel pillow and noise-cancelling headphones, and you’re all set for take-off.

HOW TO STAY COMFY WHILE FLYING

Need some practical tips for comfortable outfits for flying? Layers are where it’s at. Whether you’ve got your entire life packed into the size of a small backpack, or you’re taking all the essentials, make sure you’ve got versatile layers stashed in your carry-on. A cardigan or jumper will keep you toasty on the plane and can be folded away with ease – Vero Moda's jumper is soft enough to be folded up and used as a pillow. If the air con is especially aggressive, keeping an extra pair of leggings on hand can be super helpful, too.

HOW TO ACCESSORISE FOR YOUR FLIGHT

An OOO outfit isn’t complete without accessories, so why would your travel outfit be any different? Whether you’re hitting the pool or the slopes, sunglasses will be be a necessity – you’ll thank yourself for keeping your favourite pair to hand when you arrive. Sunglasses are also handy on the plane – high-altitudes and window seats = blinding sun. You can’t go wrong with shades from Jimmy Fairly or Ray-Ban, though it’s fun to experiment with different lenses and shapes too.

WHAT TO PACK IN YOUR HAND LUGGAGE

Keeping some travel essentials in your hand luggage is a great way to refresh mid-flight. Flying can dry out your skin, so a face mask is a must. The viral collagen mask by Biodance is perfect for long-haul flights because it has to be kept on for at least three hours – the best nap time companion. And for short hauls, if your first stop from the airport is the nearest bar, it’s time to bring out your travel-size makeup. You can’t go wrong with classic Charlotte Tilbury’s Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes and one of the brand’s light-reflecting highlighters.

SHOP FLIGHT ESSENTIALS Items