Back in the 1960s, flying to another destination was not only a privilege but an occasion to dress up. Women had dresses custom made specifically for flying to Los Angeles with the gals, and men donned sharp suits. But travelling is something we have come to take for granted in the past few decades.
We’ve replaced chic dresses with sweats and heels with Uggs — glamour is gone (almost). Modern jet-setter style is not only practical, comfortable and fashion-forward but also easily achievable. Here are the necessities of jet-setter style.
Know your jet-setter icons
If you need inspiration when it comes to looking well put together while travelling, turn to the jet-setter greats, such as Victoria Beckham, Diane Kruger and Kate Middleton. These ladies never look overdone but know how to arrive anywhere in the world in impeccable and timeless style.
Keep your face fresh
You might be tempted to put on your “face” before leaving the house (some women feel naked if they don’t), but by the end of a long plane ride, we guarantee that “face” will look like it hasn’t slept in 24 hours and had way too much to drink (like alcohol, air travel naturally dehydrates you). To keep your face fresh from destination A to B, moisturize with your favourite skin-brightening serum. Put on a light layer of foundation, and keep your lips moisturized with strawberry ChapStick. You can add the mascara, eyeliner and whatever else you need when you arrive at your destination. Pro tip: To prevent aesthetic and physical symptoms of jet lag, drink at least one big glass of water (2–3 airport cups) every hour.
Invest in your basics
Modern jet-setter style is all about looking smart while maintaining comfort and not looking overdone. Here are some must-haves for sophisticated and chic travel looks:
Slim-fit (not skinny) J Brand jeans. I’ve tried every other brand, and these jeans are the only ones that maintain their form and comfort for over 12 hours. Jeans are always fashionable and easy to clean if you have an on-flight mishap.
Scarf. This is a travel must for the plane and beyond. A scarf adds a fresh dimension to any look and completes any outfit. Plus, you’ll find it has multiple uses when travelling — from an extra layer of cozy warmth to a makeshift travel pillow.
Light cardigan or blazer. I recommend a blazer for all travel affairs, especially one in black or navy. They exude confidence and the air of “she has somewhere to go.” Find one that is comfortable and form-fitting.
Proper shoes. The jet-setter shoe rule is ankle-high boots for fall and winter and wedges for summer. These are the most comfortable options, and both are easy to slip off when you’re travelling long distances.
Carry yourself
When it comes to travel bags, go big. Don’t try to fool yourself into thinking you can fit everything into one huge and obsequious carry-on and squeezing all your necessities into a standard purse. Make travel look effortless with a medium-sized carry-on and a big, luxurious tote bag. I recommend one from Longchamp.
Be on time
The key to jet-setter style is to make travel look effortless and stylish. No matter how fashionable you look, your style vanishes the moment you do something frantically or in haste. That’s why the cardinal rule to jet-setter style is to be on time. Invest in one of Kate Spade’s beautiful new watches, or put on your thick, gold Michael Kors watch from last season. Bon voyage!
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