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Original poster

Business class flights - what to wear

51 replies

Francois · 15/03/2013 20:46

Hi

I'm flying business class to Asia next month. I realise this makes me sound daft but is there an etiquette regarding what to wear? Ie can I get away with jeans? I'm presuming I can but don't want to turn up to find everyone else in suits and me looking like a slattern

Thanks

OP posts:
BrandyAlexander · 16/03/2013 07:08

I dress smart casual. Usually 2 layers on top - a warm long tee and a cardigan or jumper and comfortable slacks. Ballerina pumps. If I am not travelling Virgin, I still tend to carry their pjs with me and change into them when I sleep. I find it so much more comfy and easier to sleep.

A tip for you, if you're travelling BA make sure you check in on line as soon as it opens (24 hours before). Else you will find yourself in the middle seat sat next to someone for 12 hours. Not great if you're not the social type on flights!

CeeceeBloomingdale · 16/03/2013 07:12

There are no 'rules' as long as the outfit is not offensive but smart casual is the norm. I normally go for comfy chinos, crops or pants that won't crease with a dark, baggy top (wear white and you will look and feel dirty) and ballerinas. A cardi and a pasmina too as it can get cold and their blankets tend to be itchy.

hermioneweasley · 16/03/2013 14:13

Strawberrytallcake - check out the DKNY cozy. It's got sleeves but you can wear it like a pashmina too because the fabric is so thin. I love them for travelling in.

Trills · 16/03/2013 14:27

Wear something comfy. That's probably not a suit or jeans, unless your jeans are a lot softer than mine.

StepAwayFromTheEcclesCakes · 16/03/2013 17:31

I suggest a comfy jersey dress so no waistband digging in, loosest undies and a comfy bra. take a cardi in case you feel cold and relax all the way.

StrawberrytallCAKE · 16/03/2013 18:12

Thanks moose and hermione, might start my own thread, sorry for the hijack...

conorsrockers · 18/03/2013 12:34

Interesting the 'smart casual' assertion because its business class, doesn't matter whether you are in economy or first, no-one gives a shit quite frankly - tip up in your swimming cosy if its what you want to wear. There is no dress code :)
Reminds of the days when taking a flight was a huge thing and everyone used to get really dressed up for it - we've moved on a long way!

Frogman · 18/03/2013 12:41

Conors, I think the people mentioning smart casual would dress like that whatever "class" they are traveling. Some of us have standards Smile

The last few times I flew back from Singapore to the UK there were Australians on the flight wearing flip flops, vest tops and baggy shorts Shock

conorsrockers · 18/03/2013 12:53

Oh god no. Flip flops? How dreadful Wink

Frogman · 18/03/2013 13:17

...and big bellies

conorsrockers · 18/03/2013 14:12

Just had a swift look round the boarding gate I am sitting at now... Plenty of big bellies and flip flops!!

INeverSaidThat · 18/03/2013 14:57

The only time it matters what you wear is when. You are trying to be
SFU. suitable for upgrade Ie when you are in coach and trying to get upgraded. Otherwise it does not matter one jot.

Frogman · 18/03/2013 14:58

Must be in Oz then.

Frogman · 18/03/2013 14:59

That is Conor must be in Oz.

conorsrockers · 18/03/2013 15:02

Half way there - Hong Kong!

NinaNannar · 18/03/2013 16:43

Oh fgs op

NinaNannar · 18/03/2013 16:45

This reply has been deleted

Message deleted by Mumsnet for breaking our Talk Guidelines. Replies may also be deleted.

Cotapaxi · 18/03/2013 17:19

What a horrible comment NinaNannar Hmm. I've never flown business class either and would be worried about what to wear or would at least ask. Very mean post.

BrandyAlexander · 18/03/2013 19:10

I don't think anyone said it actually matters. Most of us were trying to reassure the OP that she need not turn up in her business suit. I happen to dress smart casual, others wear jeans. Its a perfectly sensible question to ask. No need for anyone to be twatty with their response.

Sillyoldbagpus · 18/03/2013 19:15

I often board in jeans, comfy top and cardi. I have joggers in hand luggage and change after seat belt sign is off. I also like to take a scarf to put over my head to stop people seeing me dribble! It is also cold so lots of layers etc.

I am normally too lazy to change back into my normal clothes until I get back in the airport following landing.

jackstini · 18/03/2013 20:04

I tend to wear either yoga pants & tunic or a comfy dress with opaque tights or leggings.

Depending on whether you are flying from hot to cold or vice versa you may want to add/remove cardigan & or tights.

If jeans are your comfort zone they will be fine to wear, but not very comfy (and you will need an expanding waistband to fit in the lovely dinners and wine...) Wink

CeeceeBloomingdale · 18/03/2013 21:25

I work for an airline and when I travel there IS a dress code, even off duty. Other passengers may do as they please but I have to dress a certain way hence my comment.

FannyFifer · 18/03/2013 21:31

Wear whatever you want, who cares what a bunch of strangers on a plane think.

Original poster
Francois · 18/03/2013 21:46

Not stupid thanks, just not a seasoned traveller and don't want to make a faux pas. Much the same as I ask colleagues what the dress code is at the client's office I'll be visiting. But thanks for your input, really helpful!

Have now got some comfy yoga pants as most people suggested - thanks

OP posts:
BrandyAlexander · 18/03/2013 21:59

Enjoy Francois! Don't overdo it on the champers Grin