About to fly out for that summer break? Make sure you look great from the moment you arrive at the airport
THE packing is done and the suitcase is at the front door. Filled to burst with every single stylish ensemble imaginable, of course. The passports are safely stored in your carefully selected, designer-looking carry-on – as are the tickets, spending
money and a copy of OK! You're ready to go. Aren't you?
"The number of people I see at the airport in what can only be described as heinous ensembles never fails to amaze me," laughs Edinburgh stylist, Laura Wilton. "Joggers and matching zip-up tops resurrected from the 90s, shapeless sagging trousers that look as if they should be in the pyjama drawer – or given back to MC Hammer.
And don't get me started on the tops, jackets and those football tops."
You see, just because you're going to look your best on holiday this summer, doesn't mean to say you shouldn't travel and arrive that way. For while you may not be with those first-class passengers, there's no excuse not to give them a run for their money. And, you never know, travelling in style may just bag you that flight upgrade or hotel room with a view.
"You should never underestimate first impressions," says Laura. "What we wear and how we look are so important, as each and every one of us make snap judgements. If you're travelling alone or in a couple, it pays to look your best – understated yet stylish, as more and more airlines overbook economy and have a last-minute dash to find suitable travellers to bump up to first class.
"The same is also true when you arrive at your destination. Think about the change in treatment when you go shopping dressed to impress – the difference in service and respect is the same at your hotel. Sad, but true. And anyway, your holidays are there to be enjoyed, so by looking your best you can feel it too."
But being stylish as you jet off to warmer exotic climes doesn't mean to say you have to feel uncomfortable or restricted onboard.
"Opt for natural fabrics such as cotton, jersey and linen and try to veer towards items which have stretch but still remain in shape," says Laura. "Layering is also a sensible idea as this will take you from Edinburgh weather to in-flight air conditioning through to that wall of heat that greets you as you disembark. Think cardigans, wraps, little suit jackets worn over versatile T-shirts, blouses and dresses."
The White Company in George Street is great for stylish separates in muted tones, as is Phase Eight and Jigsaw, also on George Street. Wallis and Principles boast a wide range of versatile items which can be worn in the city and also on holiday – look for sheer silk blouses, wide-legged linen trousers and flimsy skirts.
Marks & Spencer is a one-stop shop for comfortable yet chic travel fashions, with the Limited Collection's leather jacket a great investment, both for summer and the forthcoming autumn season. Team with slim-cut jeans and flats. For that designer look on a high street budget, you can't beat Designers at Debenhams.
And lastly. "If it feels tight or restricting, don't wear it," warns Laura. "There's nothing worse than feeling bloated or uncomfortable on a flight. If you look good, you feel good – but you have to feel comfortable too."
The full article contains 589 words and appears in Edinburgh Evening News newspaper.
