And Just Like That, I'm Planning What to Wear for My First Flight in 15 Months
I love to travel. In the past, I was someone who always had a summer holiday planned and would hop on a plane any chance I could get—up until the last year when the pandemic changed our lives and put many things, including travel plans, on hold. Now, I haven’t set foot on a plane for 15 months, but I have my first flight coming up soon. I feel a bit rusty when it comes to getting dressed up in general, but I’m especially rusty in the department of travel outfit ideas, so I scrolled through Instagram to find some inspiration from fashion insiders.
Right now, I’m gravitating toward travel outfits that feel pulled-together but still comfortable. There’s a wide range of looks that strike this balance, including everything from more casual pieces like bike shorts and leggings to more polished items like tailored trousers and leather blazers. Ahead, see eight travel outfit ideas I’m planning on wearing for my upcoming trips.
Opting for a longer pair of bike shorts instantly makes an outfit feel more pulled-together than shorter pairs. I love the idea of adding a striped tee and sandals for a look that is comfortable but also polished.
Shop the look:
Another way to pull off bike shorts? Go for a tonal look by pairing a button-down top and shorts in a similar color. Then, simply add some sleek sneakers.
Shop the look:
If you feel more comfortable traveling in a pair of leggings, just add a bra top and an oversize blazer. The blazer is really the key piece that pulls everything together here.
Shop the look:
Shorts sets are one of the biggest trends this summer and happen to be the perfect thing to wear for a travel look. While I would normally opt for sandals, a pair of loafers makes this feel a bit more elevated.
Shop the look:
Yep, oversize button-down tops are one of the fashion-insider staples this season and work perfectly in a travel ’fit. Paired with jeans and sneakers, it’s the simple look that just always works.
Shop the look:
Cardigan sets are really cozy but also really chic, so they’re a no-brainer for a travel outfit. Style a set with tailored trousers and sandals for a sleek, polished look.
Shop the look:
I won’t stop talking about leather blazers and truly find them to be an essential staple in my wardrobe. Worn with jeans and a baseball cap, this is a great option if you want some extra layering options while traveling.
Shop the look:
Slouchy, tailored trousers are another key buy this season that works seamlessly in a travel look. Grab a ribbed tank and your go-to bag and it’s as easy as that to master your next travel outfit.
Shop the look:
Next, read the Who What Wear guide to all things summer fashion.
Kristen Nichols is the Associate Director, Special Projects at Who What Wear where she oversees luxury, runway content, and wedding features, and covers fashion within the luxury market, runway reporting, shopping features, trends, and interviews with leading industry experts. Kristen has worked with brands including Prada, Chanel, and Tiffany & Co., and her style has been featured in publications including Vogue.com, Vogue France, WWD, and the CFDA. Kristen began her career at Rodarte, where she worked on styling, photo shoots, and runway shows, and at Allure, where she moved into print and digital editorial. She graduated from the University of Southern California, where she studied art history and business, and currently lives in New York.
-
I Styled 5 Chic Nordstrom Outfits for Under $400 to Wear This Spring
Elevated ensembles.
By Bobby Schuessler
-
These Are the 7 Stylish Shoe Trends Fashion People Will Be Wearing With Jeans This Spring
I see chic denim outfits in your future.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
The Chicest European Women Have Convinced Me to Try This Effortless Accessory
Simple yet so chic.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
So You've Heard Skinny Jeans Are Back—Here Are 6 Elevated Ways to Wear a Pair in 2025
Bring on the compliments.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
Every Time I Go to L.A., I See Fashion Girls Wearing This Flat-Shoe Outfit to Dinner
Call it casual elegance.
By Allyson Payer
-
Espresso Martini: The Rich-Looking Color That's Already Everywhere
"That's that me espresso."
By Jasmine Fox-Suliaman
-
Jamie Mizrahi's World: The Celeb Stylist's Favorite Red Carpet Look, Most Worth-It Shoe, and Album She Listens to on Repeat
A modern-day style expert.
By Allyson Payer
-
7 Anti-Trend Outfits I Always Spot on the Busiest People in Paris and New York
Perpetually in style.
By Natalie Cantell