The Real Chic Life

Travel season is officially here. Recently, the Department of Transportation urged airline passengers to dress “with respect,” sparking a debate about whether or not comfort should be the priority when traveling. Thankfully a polished travel look doesn’t have to be high-maintenance—you can feel comfortable, confident, and beautifully put-together as you move through airports, road trips, train stations, and everything in between. Whether you’re headed out for a long weekend with family, a cozy winter getaway, or a dreamy international escape, you deserve to feel chic every step of the journey.

Here’s how to elevate your travel style with ease.

1. Start With a Chic Base Layer

The secret to looking pulled together—no matter how early your flight is—begins with the basics. Opt for:

• A soft, structured tee, fitted knit top, or turtleneck
• High-quality leggings, tailored joggers, trousers made from a comfortable material (like Beyond Yoga’s Status Wide Leg trouser that comes in regular and short length) or a soft a-line skirt
• A neutral palette that always looks polished (think black, camel, cream, navy)

These pieces create a simple, elevated foundation that works whether you’re layering up or settling into your seat.

2. Layer Like a Pro

Layers add instant sophistication—and they’re practical. Try:

• A long cardigan or lightweight cashmere wrap
• A tailored blazer for business-casual ease
• A chic trench or wool coat if you’re heading somewhere cooler

Layers keep you comfortable through temperature changes while adding that unmistakable “effortless chic” vibe.

3. Choose Elevated, Comfortable Footwear

Your shoes do a lot of the talking. Great travel-ready styles include:

• Clean white sneakers
• Classic ankle boots
• Sleek loafers

Skip anything uncomfortable or overly bulky. The goal is comfort that still reads “polished.”

4. Accessorize With Purpose

Accessories are where your personality shines without weighing down your carry-on.

• A structured tote or crossbody bag
• Delicate gold or silver jewelry
• A silk scarf (instant elegance and so useful while traveling)

These details take your look from simple to sophisticated—and they photograph beautifully for any travel snaps along the way.

5. Keep Makeup Fresh and Minimal

Travel is not the time for full glam. Instead, aim for a fresh-faced look:

• Tinted moisturizer
• Cream blush
• Brow gel
• A hydrating lip tint

You’ll look awake, glowy, and chic—even after a long flight.

6. Prioritize Fabrics That Travel Well

Wrinkle-resistant materials like knits, ponte, cashmere blends, and performance fabrics help you look neat and intentional, even if you’ve been sitting for hours. My favorite brands for travel friendly pieces are Beyond Yoga and Bleusalt—their pieces never fade, resist wrinkles and are easy to maintain.

7. Don’t Forget Your Signature Piece

Every chic traveler has that one thing that completes their look. It could be:

• Oversized sunglasses
• A timeless watch
• Your favorite fragrance (rolled on lightly)

A signature piece gives your outfit personality and makes you feel like the most polished version of yourself—even while sprinting to your gate.

8. Keep Your Carry-On Organized

Nothing feels chic about rummaging around your bag. Packing cubes, pouches, and a well-organized tote keep everything accessible and tidy. Feeling organized contributes to looking put-together—inside and out.

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Looking chic while traveling is all about intention: choosing pieces that make you feel confident, comfortable and elevated. With just a few swaps and smart styling choices, you can step off the plane or out of the car looking fresh, polished, and chic.

Xo, Courtney

P.S. Tomorrow is the last day to enter our Ralph Lauren giveaway!