Dressing for a flight can be a complex equation to solve – one that requires considering comfort, your future destination’s weather and the dreaded airport security dance. After much debate between our team, it’s evident what to wear on a plane comes down to personal style. One man’s comfortable leggings of choice is another man’s sartorial nightmare.
However, our editors can agree on a few things to avoid wearing when travelling. Here’s our agreed-upon list on the things to never wear on a flight and what to wear instead. Instead wear: drawstring trousers Sitting still in a cramped seat for hours is not the time for your stomach to be grappling with a stiff denim waistband.
A more comfortable yet equally smart alternative are trousers with drawstring or elasticated waists. Look for styles in light fabrics like ponte or cotton, or curl up in a fleece jogger style for a long-haul flight . Instead wear: slip on shoes Even though they’re perfect shoes to wear on holidays, trainers, boots, and Birkenstocks will only slow you down at the airport when you are inevitably asked to remove them to go through airport security.
Trainers mean pausing to have to tie up laces, while Birkenstock wearers are forced to do the awkward tippy-toe walk to try (and fail) to avoid getting dirty feet. Trainers are also redundant on long-haul flights when feet are prone to swelling, and you’ll want to remove your shoes anyway. Instead, pack your trainers or Birkenstocks in your carry-o.