I'm a Fashion Editor: 8 Comfy Yet Chic Travel Outfits I Always Come Back To

The last time I flew long-haul, I wore jeans for the duration. Big mistake. In my opinion, no matter how worn-in and stretchy your favourite Levi's are, an airplane is no place for denim.

For a flight of any length, comfortable clothing is a good idea, but it's especially important for longer journeys on which you're hoping to catch some Z's—not least to help you get ahead of the jetlag. If you're boarding the plane in restrictive clothes, you can forget about it. So, do yourself a favour and plan your travel outfit carefully, keeping a few key things in mind.

Comfort doesn't just come down to wearing non-clingy fabrics. You should also consider any potential changes in temperature. Are you leaving the UK and headed somewhere balmy? You'll need layers that you can strip off upon landing. Think about your whole trip from start-to-finish, and imagine what you'll need to stay comfy at each step.

But fear not, all of these practical factors don't mean you have to abandon any semblance of style. In fact, you can look just as chic as you always do as you glide through security and onto your long-haul flight. Just keep scrolling to see eight look that tick all the boxes, then shop the pieces you need in time for your next far-flung getaway.

1. Plisse Co-Ord + Birkenstocks

Style Notes: A relaxed co-ord is just the ticket to a comfortable plane journey. An interesting texture like plisse will keep you looking on-point as you get some shut-eye at 30,000 feet.

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2. Slouchy Knit + Maxi Skirt + Trainers

Style Notes: A loose jumper comes with me on all my travels, and I like teaming it with a roomy maxi skirt so I don't feel restricted. Take note from Francesca and finish off the cosy-yet-classy look with a pair of Adidas sneaks.

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3. Relaxed Shirt + Vest Top + Drawstring Trousers

Style Notes: This is a look you can take straight from airport to beachside bar. Slip on lightweight, breathable trousers (planes can get stuffy, after all) and simple separates that you'll re-wear once you arrive at your destination.

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4. Long-Sleeved Tee + Tracksuit Bottoms + Sliders

Style Notes: When in doubt, you can always rely on trackies to deliver on the comfort front. Opt for leather slides instead of trainers for a fashion spin.

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5. Cable-Knit Jumper + Leggings + Trainers

Style Notes: If you've got an early start and you're travelling from somewhere cool, a chunky jumper is a non-negotiable. Style it with leggings and a tee underneath so you can remove the extra layers when you land.

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6. Sweatshirt + Flowy Skirt + Trainers

Style Notes: From breakfast bar to boarding gate to window seat, you'll feel light as air in this comfortable combination. A long cotton skirt is basically a wearable blanket, and it doubles as a versatile piece for days by the beach.

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7. Linen Set + Cross-Body Bag

Style Notes: Linen is breathable, natural, and therefore ideal for a long flight. Make things easy for yourself and choose a matching set—this look happens to be very on-trend this season, too.

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8. T-Shirt + Stretchy Dress + Ballet Flats

Style Notes: I know what you're thinking—a dress? For a long flight? If it sounds like a strange choice, that's because you're picturing the wrong kind of dress. You want one in a super-stretchy jersey fabric that you won't mind sitting in all day (or night) long, with a tee underneath in case there's a chill on-board. 

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Next Up, 6 Summer Outfits That Are Easy, On-Trend and Stylish