If you’re anything like me, traveling causes major stress and multiple panic attacks over things like liquid allowances, making sure I have enough Beyoncè on my iPod, and having a proper snack stash. The morning of your departure, the last thing you want to happen is have a wardrobe crisis that makes you run late and necessitates sprinting to your gate to make the flight. Plan your outfit out ahead of time and follow a few simple tips and you’ll be one relaxed, stylish jet-setter.
Leave the Heels at Home
Every girl dreams of stepping off the plane and doing her best Naomi Campbell walk across the tarmac, but let’s be real here, most ladies can’t even walk properly from the car to the club entrance, let alone through the winding maze that is a major airport. Unless you’re Victoria Beckham and have an entourage to do all your heavy lifting and navigating. Why don’t we agree to dress a little more practically, yes? Considering all the rules and regulations at airport security, I suggest shoes that easily slip on and off and provide proper support for a long day of travel. Perhaps a Sperry boat shoe, a Steve Madden studded loafer, or classic ballet flats, depending on your personal style aesthetic.
Beware of Hardware
Another obstacle when tackling airport security: metal detectors. For ladies, anything beyond simple jewelry is a danger to these beeping menaces. Even the wire in your bra could trip the sensors, so choose undergarments wisely! If you’re absolutely set on rocking an arm party of bangles or some other blingy jewelry while you travel, opt to leave them in your carry on bag until after security. For fellas, I suggest avoiding wearing your biggest chains or heavily studded belts. In fact, you’ll be required to remove any belt you wear when going through security, so make sure you’ve got well-fitted pants on (or wear your least-embarrassing pair of underwear in case of a trou-dropping incident). Even certain piercings may need to be removed for safe passage, so think carefully before dressing in the morning, lest you want to become very friendly with some TSA agents.
Comfortable Can Be Cute
Despite my previous statements, I still recommend having fun with your travel ensemble! You never know who you might run into, plus no one ever wants to start a trip with “TOURIST” written all over him. Over the years, I have learned the benefits of light layers: you’re going to freeze during the flight, then immediately be drenched in sweat when you step off the plane, so take a jacket or sweater that you can easily throw in your bag. Also, wear something you can tolerate for an entire day once you arrive. If you get to your hotel or place of accommodations, you may not be able to change before heading back out for the day, so don’t wear those eighth grade basketball team sweatpants you love so much. My outfit of choice: black Habitual skinnies, indigo loose-fitted tank, black low-top Converse, and my favorite jean jacket. Go with pieces you live in and love and I guarantee you’ll be a first class fashion star.
Julie is a queen. She literally SAVED my vacation and quite frankly saved my life with her fashion tips!
Sperrys are THE best shoe for traveling. Let’s be real though they’re pretty awesome shoes in general.