There is no need to look drab as you travel the globe. Channel your inner stylish jetsetter and be comfortable while doing it. 

Travel is exciting, fun and…exhausting. In the 1960s and 70s, traveling—especially air travel—was viewed as a special occasion, for which people would choose formal attire. Many ladies would choose their best outfit to wear while flying, driving or sailing to their holiday destination. Today modern travel clothing choices are much different; comfort generally beats out fashion. But dressing chic doesn’t mean that we have to compromise comfort. Flying to Milan via New York and Copenhagen or cruising through the Caribbean does not require you to sacrifice style for ease. Comfort and style can co-exist.

The key to appearing chic while traveling is to discover your own personal “travel style” and the type of outfits that work for you. Choosing pieces that express your personal fashion sense and meet the demands of a full travel itinerary is the first step toward dressing well on the go.

Elegant Explorer

Traveling does not mean that your go-to excursion outfit must include sweatpants, your college hoodie and worn filthy sneakers. You can still be comfortable when wearing a dress or skirt. The goal is not to choose clothes that are too ostentatious; instead use attractive, well-made pieces.

Sleeveless, knee-length sweater dresses are perfect for travel as they allow the wearer to layer according to changes in temperature while en route to a destination. Rather than over-accessorizing with tons of jewelry, wear a patterned dress, which will also allow you to move easily through security (without the hassle of removing all those accessories). Think 1960s-mod meets 2011s-wanderlust. Finish the outfit with a pair of knee-high boots, as these will offer comfort and a classic look as you catch your taxi or run through the airport.

Another comfortable and stylish option is the A-line, knee-length, pleated skirt, which is a popular, versatile option for travel. Choose bright, rich colors such as deep green, brick red or navy blue. Pair this with a neutral camisole, dainty cardigan and ballet flats or—for the more daring soles—peep-toe pumps.

Hip High-Flyer

So you simply find the thought of spending eight, five or even three hours, sitting in a skirt on a plane, train or automobile unbearable. Looking stylish and remaining comfortable is still possible for ladies who love pants. Cigarette and classic trouser style pants create beautiful lines. Pair them with a classic music t-shirt (The Police or Run DMC would be perfect) and smart blazer for an edgy combination of classic pieces. Finish the outfit by choosing a pair of high-heel penny loafers or brightly colored, old school style sneaks such as a pair of Puma or Reebok.

Casual Trekker

If trousers, dresses and sneakers are not appealing to your inner traveler, there are still options for looking good while traversing the globe. Try wide leg pants or formal style shorts, made of wool or velvet. These looks work well with a sleeveless button-down shirt, layered with a chunky textured cardigan. Wide leg pants are commonly paired with flat sandals, though they could also be worn with pointed-toe flats, which also add a nice touch to formal shorts.

Adventure Accessories

When choosing accessories, the goal is to not look like a traveler or tourist. Try organizing outfits that don’t need many accessories. Including one striking piece of jewelry with your outfit—just enough to make a statement (but not enough to hold up security). Choose a beaded cuff style bracelet or a multi-strand style with semiprecious stones. The slim belt styles popular in fall are cute though you should leave them in your suitcase. Excessive accessorizing can be cumbersome to readjust when trying to put on your shoes and monitor your belongings after passing through a security checkpoint. A large tote bag with handles and a long adjustable shoulder strap is easy to carry and will hold all items necessary for you to travel comfortably. Oh and don’t forget your sunglasses! Sunglasses are a must for every chic traveler; Aviator frames remain popular and large, oval, paparazzi-worthy styles are incredibly stylish and add mystique, while protecting your eyes from the sun.

The final component to remember when balancing style and versatility is that confidence is always in style. Go through your closet, embark on a pre-journey shopping excursion and try on outfits in advance. Choose fun, pretty pieces that you are certain will be comfortable when sitting for long periods of time or running for a connecting flight. If Angelina Jolie can make a cotton tee and cuffed khakis look effortlessly beautiful in Louis Vuitton’s “Cambodia, May 2011” advertisement, then it’s possible for every woman to feel comfortable and chic in her own unique travel outfit.

Article written by Dorothy Crouch for Moxy Magazine, October 2011. Image courtesy of flickr.com user Melissa Adredt.