Ive been traveling in Europe recently, and after 14 days, 6 flights and 5 countries, the life of a global jetsetter is both culturally enlightening and creatively inspiring.
Before embarking on a vacation, it is easy to get swept away by the romanticism of a fun-filled getaway packed with glorious weather, good food, and glamorous fashion. Seasoned travelers, however, will know that feeling, and looking stylish is hard to fathom when you are faced with having to awkwardly lug around heavy luggage, wait in dreaded countless airport lines, be cramped in confined spaces, put up with water retention in the extremities and ankles, and struggle through the lingering jetlag.
Fortunately, though, no matter how delirious and jaded you may feel after stepping off a long-haul flight, there are a few little tricks that will give onlookers the illusion that you are a well-traveled and glamorous jetsetter.
The Bag
An oversize shoulder bag that zips is mandatory for travel. It ensures that there will be room for everything you could possibly need, with little chance of ever losing your valuables.
French label Longchamp is well-known for its versatile and durable travel bags. You cannot go wrong by investing in a classic leather designer tote that is sure to dress up any outfit.
For those who want to be extra indulgent, splurging on luxury luggage will ensure you are the envy of all travelers. The ultimate designer luggage collection has got to be the Hard-sided Monogram Canvas Louis Vuitton collection that can be personalized with hand-painted stripes and initials. An attractively priced line are the Globe–Trotter luggage collections. However please be warned that if you are to treat yourself to these pieces, their delicate nature means you’ll only want to use them as hand luggage or when traveling by car, train, or private jet!
The Outfit
Both comfort and effortless chic are crucial when planning the perfect travel ensemble. I generally opt for a plain-colored jumper dress and leggings, both made out of natural and breathable fibers. This outfit serves as a good base to be easily accessorized and stripped down or layered for all weather conditions.
For an effortless touch of glamour, I always match an extra-large silk or cotton scarf that then doubles as a blanket against the harsh airplane air-conditioner.
As a self-confessed stiletto addict, I find it extremely difficult to wear flats especially in situations that call for copious amounts of sitting. The travel setting is probably my only exception, and I am always extremely grateful for choosing a pair of slip-on leather flats over my favorite heels or boots.
First, wearing slip-on flats means you won’t have to remove your shoes every time you walk through a security checkpoint. Second, there is nothing worse than trying to trot around in heels that are too small after your feet have swollen at least half a size from the flight.
More Tips
In closing, here are a few other quick pointers to ensure that you have a pleasant flight: Have your toothbrush on hand, pamper and hydrate your skin with moisturizer, invest in a bottle of facial spritzer for a midflight pep-up, manage your tired eyes with a sleeping mask and swap to a large pair of sunglasses on exiting, and finally bundle your hair up into a high messy bun to hide any traces of grease and knots.
Elaine Tiong is a freelance fashion writer and marketing consultant based in Australia. She can be contacted at .