The perfect flight outfit: travelling in style & practicality
Whether on a long-haul flight to your next holiday or during a short business trip: A well-thought-out flight outfit not only ensures comfort, but can also emphasise your style confidence. To make sure this works, we'll give you some valuable tips and explain which items of clothing are a must on board!
February 26, 2025 • 3 min reading time
Flight outfits: Functional and comfortable clothing for your next trip.
Wearing natural breathable materials helps balance out temperature fluctuations in the aircraft without the need to change clothes.
Multiple layers allow you to adapt to different atmospheres (on the aircraft, at the airport and at the destination).
Comfortable and elasticated items such as leggings, tracksuit bottoms or loose shirts help to withstand long periods of sitting without clothes feeling tight and uncomfortable.
In addition to the must-have items, there are a few rules to follow when dressing for your flight so you still feel great even after several hours on the plane. Here are our top three tips:
Sitting on an airplane for a long time exposes you to temperature fluctuations. It may be pleasantly warm when boarding but the air conditioning system on the aircraft quickly cools it down. At a sunny destination, the temperature may rise again by the time you land.
To help your body adapt to all these changes, it’s a good idea to choose clothes made from natural, temperature-regulating materials. Cotton, linen, wool, TENCEL™ or Modal allow the skin to breathe and feel much more comfortable than synthetic fabrics.
If you’re wondering whether to wear several layers on the plane, the answer is definitely ‘yes!’ For long-haul flights in particular, it is a good idea to opt for breathable layers. This prevents you feeling cold or sweating excessively and means you can add or remove a layer at any time. You’ll feel perfectly comfortable until landing as well as afterwards.
Layering involves putting together your outfit in three layers:
Base layer: a short-sleeved top made from insulating functional materials that wick away moisture. A sports bra is the perfect choice for women.
Intermediate layer: a t-shirt and/or a long-sleeve top made from natural materials – depending on how quickly you get cold.
Outer layer: a sweatshirt or a warm cardigan in case it’s still chilly on board or outside. In winter, add a wool coat, parka or functional jacket.
Layering combines practical loungewear items with stylish everyday fashion.
Nothing is more irritating than wearing tight jeans for several hours without being able to move around. Instead, opt for a comfortable, casual outfit when flying, comprising cosy trousers and flat shoes that you can put on and take off easily. Shirts should also be loose-fitting and not feel tight.
If you like a figure-hugging style, choose stretch materials that adapt to your body shape. If you don’t want to wear tracksuit bottoms on your business trip, or you prefer something chicer, choose high-cut stretch jeans or soft chinos, which can be easily styled to create a relaxed yet elegant look.
You now have a few key fashion tips for your next flight. But to ensure you know exactly how your outfit should look, we list the most important items of clothing from head to toe:
A baseball cap not only makes a fashion statement, but is also ideal for hiding dishevelled and greasy hair. After sprinting to the gate or spending hours on the plane, this accessory is just what you need! What’s more, the cap keeps the sun off your face straight after landing for your summer holiday. If you prefer hats, you can opt for a thin beanie instead, as long as it’s comfortable and breathable.
Another accessory that is often overlooked but important is the scarf. Air conditioning systems are everywhere when you’re travelling, and they’re often turned up quite high, especially on aircraft. To prevent a tickly throat, wear a scarf, neckerchief or turtleneck jumper.
A tight underwire bra can quickly cause pressure points on longer flights. Any form of comfortable underwear is therefore recommended. Elastic sports bras or bustiers made from natural materials such as cotton or TENCEL™ keep you cool at hot destinations and help you stay warm when it's cold. If you tend to sweat, you can also opt for a moisture-regulating sports bra or functional underwear.
Depending on the time of year, a short-sleeved shirt or a casual hoodie is the perfect choice to wear on top. If you want to be on the safe side, you can combine both: a t-shirt with a sweat jacket that can be quickly stowed in your hand luggage. If you are visiting a colder destination, you can take a thin coat or light jacket with you.
When it comes to trousers, you should aim for complete comfort when flying. Whether you opt for leggings, joggers or loose-fitting jeans is up to you, as long as you’re comfortable!
Many swear by leggings or loungewear trousers with an elasticated waistband, as they adapt to your body’s movements. If you want to wear jeans, you should consider stretch ones or opt for loose-fitting boyfriend jeans. Chinos are also a popular and stylish choice on long-haul flights.
Swollen feet can present a problem on longer flights. That’s why it’s a good idea to wear loose footwear such as slippers and perhaps take compression stockings with you if necessary. This helps prevent painful legs.
If you get cold quickly, you should also pack a pair of thick socks in your hand luggage, as it soon cools down, especially near the floor. Woollen socks help keep your feet warm without the need to wear shoes for the entire flight.
If your feet get sweaty quickly on the other hand, you should opt for lightweight shoes such as light trainers or sandals, especially when travelling to hot destinations. Always ensure that your shoes are comfortable enough to withstand long journeys or waiting times at the airport.
Practical wear for flights can still be very stylish. With a little planning, you can easily combine comfortable garments to create a modern look. Choose natural materials and items of clothing that you can layer and put on or take off as you wish.
Wearing stretchy, loose and natural fabrics helps avoid pressure points and can help balance out temperature fluctuations perfectly throughout the entire flight. From cool baseball caps to cosy joggers and stylish trainers, planning your flight outfit skilfully not only means a comfortable start, but also a modern and completely relaxed style for your next holiday or a smart look for your business trip.
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