How to Look Good While Travelling

Looking good in the airport is hard. Well, actually, it isn’t as hard as it seems, but it definitely seems hard. And with the last minute rushing to get ready that usually takes place the morning of a flight, being stylish can quickly get demoted on any gathered lady’s list of priorities. Here’s how to re-prioritize your fly, and ensure that you’re ready for whatever foolishness the TSA throws at you.

Select an outfit while packing. This little trick has made dressing for the airport a breeze for me. It also makes packing easier. Basically, I decide what I'm going to wear while I'm packing, just as if I was packing an extra outfit. Laying out all of my clothes at the same time makes it easier for me to see which (if any) jacket I need, and if I can save some room in my luggage by wearing a pair of shoes that works with other outfits that I packed. The same is true for accessories and jeans, if you bring them. Think of your outfit as a stylish extension of your luggage. Another benefit is that you will save time getting ready the morning of your flight. And you won't be wearing sweatpants.

Dress for comfort. Please don’t show up to the airport in strappy stilettos. Uncomfortable clothes and shoes will induce regret almost immediately. And when that regret comes, it’ll be too late to do anything about it. Look for a comfortable maxi dress or a pair of jeans (not too tight!) that you can pair with a comfortable pair of shoes that won't give you trouble if you need to run to catch a plane!

Keep the TSA screening in mind. Some accessories just aren’t worth the hassle they cause in the security line. I never wear a belt to the airport, and as much as I love my cowboy boots, they are too difficult to get off and on to be bothered with. Slip-ons, clogs, mules or any shoe that can be easily removed are the best footwear for the airport. For accessories, forego an armful of bangles, quickly retrieving them from the bin after you've been body-scanned is nearly impossible.

Layer, layer, layer. Even if it is warm both where you are and where you’re going, you still need to layer up. Your halter may be adorable, but you’ll be regretting the choice midflight in the icebox responsible for getting you to your destination. If you layer, you can always take off your jacket or hoodie if, for instance, the A/C in the cabin is broken. Jackets also make great blankets and pillows on long flights. Yay, versatility!

Casual hair and makeup. No need to drive yourself crazy trying to flat iron your hair at 5 a.m. Tie your hair up the night before, and if your old ‘do survives the night, rock it again. If not, try a side-ponytail (easier to sleep on) or a high bun. As for makeup, I’m strictly a mascara and lipgloss girl on travel days. Anything else is too much effort. When you reach your destination, duck into an airport restroom to freshen up a bit.