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Original poster

What to wear when flying long haul? Style gurus please help?

34 replies

divabroad · 26/04/2014 01:01

What to wear? Looking at White company for jersey type trousers and top. But don't want to look like wearing my pyjamas, but I would like clothes with comfort. Any ideas for something stylish but suitable for long flight? TIA xx

OP posts:
butterfliesinmytummy · 26/04/2014 01:07

Done this lots! Soft (D Perkins) jeggings, vest top, cashmere hoody, lace up wedge trainers. Take a soft pashmina type to use as an extra layer (I get cold on flights), pillow etc.

DdJames · 26/04/2014 01:10

I've just done a long haul flight. I wore black jersey harem pants from next, a black fitted tee and a long grey jersey cardi. Felt like I was wearing pj's but didn't look them- I hope not anyway!

BlameItOnTheBogey · 26/04/2014 01:32

I have cracked this. I wear this with leggings, smart flats and with a long sleeve t-shirt layered under it. Super comfy and looks pretty put together.

mirpuppet · 26/04/2014 06:41

Leggings w/ dress or tunic. Could be convenient if dress/ tunic has pockets. Nothing that binds the waist like jeans as some people bloat a bit on flight -- especially feet. So comfortable shoes.

Of course DH just wears jeans and he is fine.

MrsGarvey · 26/04/2014 07:20

Has to be jersey, leggings or harems, make sure you can peel off layers if you get too hot.
Slip on shoes, so you can nip to the loo at night without fumbling and shoes that will accommodate very swollen feet(i have sometimes struggled to get shoes back on because my feet have swollen so much in a 14hour flight, Birkenstocks are good for this as they have an adjustable strap - although whether you describe them as stylish is up to you.
Take warm socks and a cashmere/wool cardigan or jumper, as it can get a little cold with excessive air conditioning. Hope you have a lovely time.

Pastperfect · 26/04/2014 07:22

Depends on whether economy or business.
When flying economy I work on basis that I need to be super comfy and warm (so def take socks and wrap) but also that something will end up spilt on me as space is so restricted and it is also difficult to put jumpers on because of restricted space.

When flying business it matters a lot less - you get proper blankets and socks and can stand and move around to take things on off with ease.

JugglingChaotically · 26/04/2014 07:33

Layers, extra socks and scarf/pashmina - can be freezing is under a vent - and def slip on/off shoes that are not tight. (Though I only wear socks on flight and walk in those!)
I go for pumps mostly.
Jeans are ok just make sure they are not too tight - or undo top button under long top!!
Nothing that creases. Linen a disaster! (Yes. Did it once, not pretty!)
Smart jacket/top change on arrival - in carry on during flight - works wonders if you need/want to look good on arrival.
Have fun!

Original poster
divabroad · 26/04/2014 12:07

It's not business trip so I don't mind Birkenstocks or trainer type slip ons. I like the Baukjen tunic, will it look ok on tubby size 14? And I never look good with slouchy or boxy tops, make me look pregnant. I dont know why some people look so stylish in them. Looking at jersey trousers for confort now. And might wear Boden printed vest type with cardigan, may be I need fine knit carshmere cardigan? ;)

OP posts:
burnishedsilver · 26/04/2014 12:28

Flight socks.. My feet swell up so badly that if I take my shoes off I cant get them back on again. Ive tried sandals but my swollen feet look hideous. Id suggest shoes with laces that can be loosened.

OP posts:
Original poster
divabroad · 26/04/2014 12:57

www.thewhitecompany.com/clothing/tops/drop-sleeve-tshirt--navy/ I guess I still end of looking like in my pyjamas?

OP posts:
MairzyDoats · 26/04/2014 12:59

I have a long black jersey maxi which I wear with a cropped grey blazer and a big scarf to add a layer of warmth. Looks relatively stylish but is as comfy as a nightie!

RemusLupinsBiggestGroupie · 26/04/2014 13:03

I'd wear a maxi skirt and Converse plus a soft top/jersey jacket - and take warm socks and a pashmina with me.

FairPhyllis · 26/04/2014 13:07

My top tip is to take a spare top and a change of underwear to change into when you land (especially if you have a connecting flight after a long-haul flight). Goes a long way towards making you feel human.

Other than that I wear jersey yoga pants and thin layers. I always take a pashmina as an extra blanket. The layers are key because first you will overheat walking around the airport, then you will freeze on the aircraft.

If you are flying into a civilised airport with shower facilities, you will not regret paying for a shower on arrival.

Original poster
divabroad · 26/04/2014 13:08

Oh yes, Why I never thought of maxi skirts. Like the look of these www.whitestuff.com/stripe-jersey-maxi-prod408959_onyx_blue/

OP posts:
Pastperfect · 26/04/2014 13:29

I'm on a plane practically every other week and do not recommend either maxi skirts or converse for flying.

If you are small short like me you can often tuck your legs up to get comfortable but if wearing a skirt I find myself constantly having to tuck the folds in so as not to freeze.

Outside of business lace ups are a no no, you don't want to fly wearing shoes but you don't want to go anywhere near the toilets without them on and there just isn't the room in economy to bend down and lace shoes easily.

Artandco · 26/04/2014 13:32

Harem trousers from hush

Dudess · 26/04/2014 14:08

Love the clothing suggestions and support the comfy black trousers (I use a panytliner, too, for extra comfort) and a layers.

Ballet pumps are great for slipping off and putting your snuggly socks on. Don't forget lip balm, eye cream and an eye mask too, if your airline doesn't provide one. And put a request in for lots of water in between your free drinks :)

Size15Stylist

specialsubject · 26/04/2014 14:36

washable.
layers - cabin temperature varies wildly, it is turned up after meals to get you to sleep and lowered again when they want you awake.
loose - stomach and feet expand in lower pressure.
low-faff - the toilets are tiny and can get mucky towards the end of the flight.

take an empty 1.5litre water bottle through security. Fill it with tap water airside. swig at regular intervals. Book an aisle seat so you can get up and down without disturbing anyone.

you will look and feel like a sack of spuds after a long-haul in economy - the tip of clean knickers and clean top is excellent, and keep moisturiser handy to avoid itchy nose.

Original poster
divabroad · 26/04/2014 15:46

Thank you, You are all brilliant, some great tips I havent thought myself. it's been while since flew long haul. May be maxi skirt is not me, I'm not really skirt person. Harems I need, where to look for good quality one?

OP posts:
sarinka · 26/04/2014 15:48

This reply has been deleted

Message withdrawn at poster's request.

sarinka · 26/04/2014 15:50

This reply has been deleted

Message withdrawn at poster's request.

RubyReins · 26/04/2014 17:23

specialsubject The idea of taking an empty bottle through security is truly inspired. Definitely doing that next time I fly.

FairPhyllis · 26/04/2014 17:41

If you can brush your teeth before getting on (if it is a night flight) that helps. And you can do it on arrival too. Having a bottle of water helps because in some airports they only have hot water in the taps in the loos (hello Heathrow!) to discourage you from doing this.

I always amaze people in the loos before the flight by whipping out my wash kit and doing my night time ablutions.

HermioneWeasley · 26/04/2014 18:36

I simply don't understand why you would care if you look stylish on a long haul flight - can someone explain?