Wondering what to wear on the plane? These outfit ideas and essentials are not only stylish, but also comfortable even on a long flight in economy class.
Dressing for a long flight can be tricky. You probably want to look stylish but it is also very important be comfortable especially on a long flight in economy. I have a long flight uniform- I have finally figured out what works well for me on a long flight so I wear it pretty much on most of my flights.
After many years of flying, here are my tips on what to wear on an airplane to be comfortable and still look good:
Wear layers!
Layers are key on an airplane or when traveling in general. It is hard to predict the temperature of an airplane cabin. Most of the time I am freezing on a plane, so I always recommend bringing a light sweater or other outer layer even in the summer or if traveling to a warm destination.
By dressing in layers you can take off your outer layer when you arrive at your destination or if the airplane cabin feels too warm.
If you want to look stylish, consider a cute cardigan or sweater. A zip up hoodie, sweatshirt or fleece also work for those that prefer to dress more casual.
Wear loose fitting comfortable clothes
You won’t be able to sleep on the flight or get comfortable if your clothes are too tight. Do not wear tight pants or skirts on long flights. Loose fitting clothes are best.
I find the best thing to wear is a pair of pants that is either loose or stretchy with a thick or elastic waistband. Personally I wear a pair of thick jeggings that look like jeans. Other stylish but comfortable pants include linen pants or wide leg lounge pants.
Some people like to wear their yoga pants, while others find them to be too casual. One solution to dress up your yoga pants is to wear a longer cardigan.
A loose maxi or midi dress is also a stylish and comfortable option when flying in the summer.
Bring a scarf
I never fly without a scarf. Not only will a scarf keep you warm on a long flight, but you can also use it as a blanket or to cover your face if the cabin is bright instead of an eye mask.
Wear the right shoes
The best shoes to wear on a plane are flat, slip on shoes without laces.
I like wearing slip on shoes when flying so that you I can take them off easily and put them back on when going to the bathroom on the plane and going through security at the airport.
Avoid wearing heels if possible, as you have to do a lot of walking especially at large airports.
If you want to look stylish, wear a pair of cute flats.
My favorite shoe to wear on a flight are my Patagonia Maha Breathe flats which can be worn with both pants or skirts and dresses and they can be dressed up or down.
Wear or bring socks
I always wear socks when flying. Socks will keep your feet warm and clean when you take off your shoes on a long overnight flight.
Even if you are wearing sandals or flip flops, pack a pair of socks for the flight.
Another reason to wear socks is so you do not walk barefoot through airport security, if you are required to take off your shoes.
If your flight is really long, it is a good idea to wear compression socks on the plane to prevent DVT. This pair is a cute option for those that still want to look stylish.
Do you need to dress up for the flight?
If this is your first time flying, you might be asking if you need to dress up for the flight? The answer is no, you can wear whatever you like. However, try not to wear anything too tight or revealing as airlines can ask you to get off the flight or cover up as too not offend other passengers.
The days where you would get upgrades to first class for dressing up are over. Usually upgrades go to people who have airline status.
Most people in economy are dressed fairly casual. Fellow passengers in first or business class are more likely to dress up, but there are still people wearing sweats and sneakers as well.
What do you like to wear on a long flight?
