It was suggested to me that I write a column on how to look chic and stylish while traveling. I thought to myself, “Gee, I'd like someone to tell me how to do that,” and laughed. But when I told a friend with whom I’ve traveled, she said I do look chic. So, here goes.
One of the funniest things I’ve read is to go to the lavatory immediately on boarding the plane and remove all your makeup. Then, prior to landing, go back to the lavatory and reapply your makeup. This is because the air on a plane is drying and without makeup you can keep your skin well-hydrated.
Huh? What world are they living in?
First of all, you don’t have a private powder room where you’re free to spend as much time as you like reapplying your makeup. Spend more than a few minutes and I guarantee there'll be police waiting to search the area when you land, looking for a bomb.
Second, where are you supposed to spread out your cosmetics? Have they seen the size of a plane lavatory? No, keep your makeup on. Before you land you can refresh your lipstick and blush and comb your hair, but really, that’s it. Drink water and I’m sure your skin won’t shrivel like a prune.
I wear jeans when I fly. It can be chilly in the cabin so I try to wear a shirt or sweater that provides some coverage. I have three cotton long-sleeved turtlenecks that I wear a lot. No matter what the weather, they'll be comfortable on a plane.
There’s no law against wearing jewelry. I won’t wear expensive jewelry or anything I really care about when traveling, but I always wear inexpensive costume jewelry. A watch, bracelets, a pin, and necklaces and always earrings.
Do not wear high heels. They’re not easy to move around in and you may want to remove them when you’re seated and your feet may swell. Do wear shoes you can easily slip on and off. I wear—you guessed it—Chinese cotton Mary Janes. They’re comfortable, I can walk easily, and they can slip off when I go through security.
Depending on the weather when you land, you may want to carry a raincoat or jacket and stash it in the overhead compartment.
I travel light—very light. I never, ever check in my luggage. I trust the airline to get me where I want to go, but not my luggage. So no matter where I’m going and how long I'll be away, I travel with a duffle bag (the same type ballet dancers use to carry their gear during the day) and stick it under my seat.
Well, that’s pretty much it. I hope this helps if you’ve been wondering how to land without scaring the women and children.
Miriam Silverberg is a freelance journalist and owner of Miriam Silverberg Associates, a boutique publicity firm in Manhattan. She may be reached at [email protected].
*Image of “traveling chic“ via Shutterstock
