What do YOU Wear to Fly?

Nothing seems to invite controversy in a frequent traveler discussion quite like the “what do you wear to fly” conversation.

Diehards on both ends of the spectrum (from “one step up from pajamas” to “dressed for the boardroom”) tend to be quick to defend their positions as to why their way of dress is the appropriate one for flying.  This recent Bustle article defending dressing up for travel got me thinking about my own stance.

I find myself stuck in the middle of the groups.

On one hand, I like being comfortable for flying.  A “typical” travel day for me domestically (like today) might span twelve hours between cars, airplanes, and airports.

On the other hand, I like being presentable.  I seem regularly run into someone who is a potential contact and I like to put my best foot forward.

Yet it is a challenge.  I can’t run for tight connections in heels (I’ve tried) and I certainly can’t get comfortable when I’m wearing my tucked in dressed up best.  And getting a drink spilt on the outfit you planned to wear to a client later that day is the worst.  Trust me, it has happened.

But I’ve been caught off-guard when I’ve flown too casual and then somehow my gate checked bag has gotten left behind.  Its sad to say, but I’ve mastered the art of putting together a faux business outfit at Target or Wal-Mart in ten minutes or less.

And don’t get me started on changing clothes in airport bathroom stalls – Superman in his phone booth has nothing on me.

At the end of the day, I find myself going for the happy medium.  I own no less than a dozen little black knit dresses that can be worn with flats (or sandals or tights/boots if the weather calls for it) and a cardigan.  I collect “nice” black yoga pants and dark wash jeggings to pair with a tunic or knit top.

But I have friends who still stick to the extremes – and are happy to defend their position doing so.