Holiday Travel – It Is Possible To Be Comfortable And Presentable

By Brian Maynor

 

As I was packing and planning for my first holiday-related trip I started thinking about the tons of other people doing the same thing.  It wouldn’t be the holidays after all if you didn’t have to travel right?

No matter how much experience you have packing for a trip it is still difficult because every one is different.  You have to think about where you’re going and what you’ll be doing while you’re there in order to have some direction on what to take.  Even if you get all of that planned out you still have the actual traveling to get there.  So that’s what I want to look at today, your travel outfit.

Here are a few things to remember and look for when deciding what to spend hours wearing often in tight, seated positions:

 

1.   Elegance vs. Practical.  The two terms may seem at odds, but they are not mutually exclusive.  You can look distinguished and still pass through security easily if you style your look correctly.  Everyone knows making it through airport security requires taking off your shoes and jacket, so make sure you can slip in and out of them easily.  Slip-on shoes or boots with zippers are ten times easier and quicker to get in and out of than anything with laces.  Also drape your coat over your shoulders.  It’s chic, stylish and practical.  You can just pop it off and on without struggling with the sleeves.  Stow your sweaters, scarves, hats and other accessories in your bag for use after you land.

2.   Fabric is key.  If you’re going to wear something for hours and in various climates the fabric is key.   Soft, stretchy, warm and wrinkle resistant are a few qualities to look for.  In all honesty I love the new jogger trend for this very reason.  They are soft, comfortable, roomy and now trendy.  Of course you don’t want to wear them with a sweatshirt, but a soft-wash denim shirt and cashmere sweater will do perfectly.  Also skip the running shoes and try a pair of hiking boots.  Silk-blends are also a good choice because they are light, thin and warm.  Contrary to what you may think silk is one of the warmest fabrics you can wear, but pure silk, like linen, wrinkles when you breathe on it.

3.   Size matters.  Whether you’re in a car or on a plane you won’t have much room around you for storage, so the bulk of your outfit must be considered.  Parkas are great, but they aren’t exactly thin.  In this situation it is actually appropriate to look at sportswear for inspiration.  Tech fabrics designed for outdoor winter exercise make great base layers and cut down on the need for bulky sweaters and coats.  Whether you choose to wear compression shirts and tights or fashion versions of them the idea is the same:  close-fitting, synthetic fibers trap in body heat keeping you warm while allowing easy movement with minimal volume.

 

Travel is part of the holiday season, and while it may not be the most convenient or pleasant part you can make it easier on yourself.  There’s no reason you have to look disheveled, disgruntled or simply annoyed when you arrive at your destination even if that’s how you feel.

 

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

 

I am always curious to hear from you and what you see in the workplace.  Send your questions, comments and pet peeves to [email protected].  Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.

 

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.

Sign up here to start your free subscription to MidlandsLife!