There’s a pop-culture caricature of a comfortable traveller: velour tracksuit, flip-flops, hair tied up in a bun with no make-up or jewellery, and carrying flight essentials in a tote bag. The only thing wrong with this picture? You end up looking slouchy when you reach your destination.
Of course, you’d like to look your best everywhere you go, maybe even like the A-listers who step out of planes looking as chic as they do on red carpets. So, as you get set to jet off on holiday this season, we take the help of some designers to strike a balance between comfy and chic while on the move.
Light and loose
“Stick to fabrics like jersey and georgette that breathe. Cotton and cotton blends tend to wrinkle on long flights. Never wear tight clothes or shoes,” says designer Nikhil Thampi. For Anushka Khanna, comfort is key. “Leggings, a button-down shirt or a solid T-shirt with a light blazer and loafers is ideal,” says the designer, advising travellers to keep their silhouette streamlined. She also advocates carrying a shawl in case it gets chilly on a flight.
No frills attached
Designer Rocky S suggests, “Accessorise with only a jacket or a scarf, which provide utility too.” Thampi adds, “Leave your bulky jewellery at home. There are many security checks, so removing them each time can be a hassle.” He recommends just a hairband to keep loose strands at bay and a belt without metal buckles. “Put your cosmetics, money and travel documents in mini pouches to make security checks easy,” adds Khanna.
No frills attached
Designer Rocky S suggests, “Accessorise with only a jacket or a scarf, which provide utility too.” Thampi adds, “Leave your bulky jewellery at home. There are many security checks, so removing them each time can be a hassle.” He recommends just a hairband to keep loose strands at bay and a belt without metal buckles. “Put your cosmetics, money and travel documents in mini pouches to make security checks easy,” adds Khanna.
Sole comfort
“Wear flats like loafers or boots,” says designer Anita Dongre. Rocky adds, “Brogues and sneakers work best. They are comfortable to walk in and give good support to the feet.” Give your heels a complete miss. “Why would you subject yourself to such discomfort while walking between gates?” asks Khanna.
Ahead of the pack
On the flight: “The essentials are moisturiser, facial wipes, a scarf, a neck pillow, hand sanitiser, headphones, mint, lip balm and a book,” says Thampi. Rocky adds, “Put your stuff in a roomy tote that can hold all your basics.”
For your trip: “Depending on the purpose of your visit, carry separates that work for all occasions — black trousers, one solid and one printed blazer, a leather jacket, a black dress, ballet flats, heels, an evening clutch and a statement necklace,” says Khanna.