As a globe-trotting food and travel writer, I find myself on an airplane every few weeks. These trips can range from short visits for events or opening parties to longer trips to explore a destination and experience its vineyards, restaurants, or to source ingredients. What many of these trips have in common, though, is that I’ll have to go straight from the plane to a meeting or event with no time to change.
This routine has created a need for outfits that can do double duty. I need to be able to rest comfortably on those flights, which are sometimes long or overnight, but also make me feel professional for whatever I have to jump right into after disembarking. For me, that means avoiding anything too tight and constricting, but arriving at my destination with clothing that won’t be wrinkled or look like I just sat—or slept—in it for hours. I need to look ready to jump right into a business lunch or meeting, even if it’s in a corporate setting or fancy restaurant.
Keep reading for six straight-from-the-plane outfits that look polished yet are comfortable enough to wear for a long travel day—all at Amazon, starting at just $12.
Outfit 1
The Bobobigo Wide-leg Pants are a travel mainstay because they fit so many roles. They’re loose-fitting and lightweight, contain UPF 50 protection, and are water-resistant, so even if the day takes me hiking through fields foraging for truffles and botanicals or visiting a vineyard after a fresh rain, I’m ready. Paired with the Arach&Cloz Crewneck Sweater and Cushionaire Weston Flats, this outfit has an air of sophistication without compromising its cool, casual comfort.
No matter how warm it may be once I land in a destination, planes can get chilly. I love keeping a shawl with me to stay cozy on flights and also as a makeshift blanket when I’m getting some shuteye. The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf is super versatile, keeping me cozy on the plane and acting as a polished accessory when meeting with colleagues after landing.
I love being able to toss everything, from my bag to my clothes, in the wash after a trip. The Bagsmart Tote Bag is large enough to keep everything from my laptop to my ID and cosmetic bag secure, with a zippered top that keeps items safe from falling out (or pilfering hands). But since it’s foldable, it’s easy to stash in my luggage when I’m not using it and to throw in with the laundry upon my return.
Outfit 2
I’m obsessed with this Btfbm Blazer Vest because it’s so versatile; it works great with anything, from jeans to a skirt or wide-leg palazzo pants, and instantly adds sophistication to an outfit. Pair it with the Skechers Go Walk Pants, which are stretchy, moisture-wicking, and offer UPF 40+ protection, making them ideal for both lounging and taking a scenic walk through an exciting new city. Add the Vanlinker Aviator Sunglasses to ensure your eyes will be protected from the summer sun as well.
Pulling this makeshift pantsuit together is a fun and whimsical pair of walking sandals. The Littleplum Braided Sandals offer arch support and a breathable sole, with a retro-inspired wooden buckle and rhinestone embellishments.
Outfit 3
A lightweight and loose-fitting T-shirt dress is the ultimate plane-to-sightseeing outfit—it feels as comfortable as a housedress while in flight but instantly adapts to activities on the ground. The Anrabess T-shirt Dress is a bargain at under $30 and comes in a wide variety of shades. The rustic forest grain color, though, is a fun pop of color, especially when paired with the gentle muted shades available in the Scusty Summer Cardigan, a great pick for staying warm on a chilly flight or throwing over a dress for an outdoor dinner.
Work trips often don’t allow for time to slow down and regroup, so it’s important to have everything you’ll need for the day with you. A great tote is an essential, and the Leatherology Downtown Tote is stunning and easily adapts to every stop on the itinerary.
As hard as you may be working on this business trip, it’s still important to have a good time. With the Söfft Mirabelle Platforms in an eye-catching metallic shade and the Ade Wu Square Sunglasses in a cool vintage style, you’ll maintain an edge of fun and whimsy no matter how serious the day’s meetings may be.
Outfit 4
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly yet on-trend outfit, pair the Amazon Essentials Cargo Pants with the Amazon Essentials Georgette Short-sleeve Top. The classic duo is around $40 and will take you well into the fall trips.
I’m all about packing a crossbody purse for trips, as it makes me feel a lot more secure in densely packed touristy areas. The Sak Lucia Crossbody Purse is a stunning travel bag with a zippered top that will keep items such as my money, passport, and credit cards safe, regardless of any high-traffic airports and destinations I may visit during the trip.
Tie the whole look together with these Dream Pairs Sandals that offer comfort, arch support, and cushioning, so you’re ready for a busy day on your feet—even if things get a bit hilly.
Outfit 5
I love a dress that can play multiple roles—casual and loose-fitting yet fun and flirty, ready to hit the ground running. The Amazon Essentials Swing Dress checks all the boxes and is only $17. It can double as a comfy plane outfit, but is also something you can wear with ease to a multi-course lunch right after. Throw your odds and ends in the spacious Gassda Canvas Tote and spice up the look with edgy cat-eye sunglasses, on sale for just $15.
It’s all about making sure your tired feet can keep up with you on these marathon days, and with the Earth Lainey Flat Sandals’ cushioned insoles, you’ll be ready. Even better? They’re sitting at 54 percent off right now.
Outfit 6
Lightweight and airy are the name of the game when I’m traveling, and this 3/4-length blouse pairs so sweetly with fun, floral palazzo pants that can transition to just about any activity on a work or play day. Add the Choliss Quilted Crossbody Bag and the super comfy Clarks Laurieann Kay Sandals, and I’m ready for a day of exploration in a new destination. These sandals, with a 28 percent savings, have a cushioned footbed that feels like walking on clouds but without showing up at that fancy wine tasting in sneakers or athleisure.
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