"Maybe I’m in the minority here, but no matter how I’m feeling about booking my trip home for the holidays—or any trip, for that matter—there’s a certified wave of excitement that comes with planning out my travel look. It sounds silly, but you probably guessed it: I love dressing for a theme.
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Being a frequent traveler myself, I’ve built up a reliable arsenal of travel outfit inspo that has gotten me through several cross-country trips, be it by car, plane, or train. Because no matter how Instagram-worthy the contents of my suitcase may be, choosing an outfit to spend a full day’s worth of travel in is a choice that requires me to be two things: fashionable and functional. Though my new Hill House nap dress will look killer in the family photo this year, it’s probably not going to get me from point A to point B (not comfortably, anyway).
With the holidays upon us, weeding through bouts of last-minute shopping and eleventh-hour packing, your travel outfit is likely the last thing on your mind. These seven looks prove that style and comfort can coexist, just in time for holiday travel.
7 Travel Looks to Get You Home in Style
1. A Trench Coat and Hoodie
At first glance, I couldn’t spot the hoodie in this outfit, but upon further inspection, what I thought was an office-ready outfit was really just a chic, off-duty ensemble. The tailored elements of the trench coat and trousers totally mask the relaxed style of the sweatshirt and sneakers. The result? A perfectly balanced look that’s made for heading to the airport or a day on the road.
2. A Chunky Sweater and Easy Pants
Yes, I know this outfit consists of two extremely relaxed silhouettes; however, the difference in weight between the top and bottoms allows this look to really work. Rather than reaching for heavy-weight bottoms like jeans or sweatpants, opt for something a bit lighter, like satin or poplin pants. Add loafers and your favorite jacket—preferably one that’s a pain to pack—as finishing touches.
3. Track Pants and Mary Janes
Hear me out: When paired with socks, Mary Janes are the new sneakers. The worry over blisters and lack of support completely dissipates as soon as I’m strapped in (literally) with a pair of my comfiest socks. Even better, the juxtaposition of a pair of Mary Janes against a pair of track pants makes for one of the chicest combos I’ve seen in a long time. Style with your favorite coat and a draped cardigan, and you’re in the running to win TSA’s best-dressed. (Now that sounds like my kind of sport.)
4. Leggings and an Oversized Jacket
For those of you who have room to stow your winter coat in your suitcase, I envy you. I will forever be the girl wearing a parka and boots through security. Rather than wearing basic leggings and a tee, though, try kicking it up a notch by adding an oversized jacket, like this leather bomber. Not only does it help to elevate the look, but it also works to bring balance to the slimmer profile created by a pair of body-hugging leggings.
5. Relaxed Jeans and a Crewneck Sweater
So maybe a Birkin is out of the question for me in this particular season of life—and let’s face it, probably every season after—but it doesn’t mean that I can’t emulate this laissez-faire outfit. Though you could rock any straight-leg or loose-fitting pair of denim, the white (yes, after Labor Day) makes for an incredibly chic statement. Once you’ve figured out your denim wash and silhouette of choice, style with a crewneck sweater in a coordinating neutral or splash of color.
6. A Sweatsuit and Sneakers
Hear me when I say this: Not all sweatsuits were made equal. There are some that say, “I haven’t left my apartment this week,” and there are others that speak sheer sophistication. Opt for one in a not-too-bulky silhouette and pair with cool-girl accessories in opposing shades for an ultra-chic look.
7. A Ball Cap and Wool Coat
I’ll be honest: More often than not, if I’m traveling during the winter season, I’m wearing my coat in the Delta Lounge. Being the over-packer that I am, there’s simply no way I’m squeezing it into my checked luggage. Really though, it’s alright with me. The extra brain power it requires to remove and store my coat on the plane is worth it if it means my outfit is this good.
Tinsley Crisp, Fashion & Beauty Staff Writer
Tinsley Crisp is a Fashion & Beauty Staff Writer at The Everygirl and specializes in reporting on the season’s latest trends and hottest products. As a New York City-based stylist, she’s committed to injecting joy into the art of getting dressed and delivering attainable yet aspirational content to our readers.