Why You Should Dress up When Traveling

Do you ever find a pair of pants that’s just like so perfect that you have to share them with the world? Well, I found that pair of pants and they’re pretty reasonable for how much I’m going to wear them. For this look, I paired them with one of my all time favorite tops from Everlane, but if traveling, I’d probably throw on a loose tee and tuck the front in and the maybe a simple pair of slides similar to the ones I’m wearing.

These pants are from Free People and I bought them on a whim with my half-birthday discount. (Did you know that Free People does that? Totally worth signing up for the emails.) They’re soft, stretchy, and just high waisted enough to show that traveling bloat. Another side note: does anyone else get super bloated while traveling? I swear, whether it be by train, plane, or automobile, I always get out of a traveling vehicle feeling like I’ve gained serious poundage.

Anyway… I’ve started this new thing when I travel. Dressing up. Yes, I know it sounds strange, especially to the yoga-pants-and-tee-shirt traveler I once was.

Dress Better, Feel Better

One, I feel totally gross when I land and I’m wearing sloppy clothes on top of having my skin feeling grimy from the recycled air.

When you dress better, you’ll feel better. You’ll feel more awake, alert, and ready to take on the day, which is especially important if you have a shorter flight.

Don’t waste time getting ready when you land

This brings me to my next point. If you’re not flying in super late and going straight to bed, you’re going to want to be ready to take on the day.

I often fly in early in the morning or take red-eye flights that land me in the middle of the day. If you want to take on the day and not waste time in your new destination, being already dressed and ready to go gives you more time to enjoy.

I often fly into LAX early in the morning (the flights are cheaper) and go straight to brunch with my parents when I land. I feel so much better when I’m already dressed for the occassion.

You Never Know Who You’ll Meet

Depending on where you’re going and coming from, you may meet an awesome connection on a flight! Maybe you’ll end up next to someone you want to network with or someone who may help you get adjusted at your new destination. Either way, I prefer looking my best and making a better lasting impression.

Dressing up doesn’t have to be difficult. Throw on these comfy pants with a tee shirt and denim jacket and you’ll be all set to go. Maybe opt for some leggings tucked into booties with a cute tunic. Either way, a little bit of effort will go a long way at the airport – after all, you’re going up against people who aren’t dressed up at all. No stilletos necessary (don’t even get me started on the women who wear these to the airport).

Enjoy your next flight!

Hi - my name is Kirsten! I am currently based in Chicago after a long cross-country move from Arizona. What will you find here? I love sharing all things sustainability and slow fashion, any of my day-to-day shenanigans, the latest new hobbies I picked up, and whatever concert or music festival I can find. Welcome and thanks for popping in to my little corner of the world wide web!