If you’re lucky, traveling is an exciting perk of your job. But when you’re used to throwing on sweatpants and a t-shirt to brave a four-hour plane ride, it can be a challenge to switch gears and go with more professional garb while traveling for work.
Doing so has its perks, whether or not it’s required. You never really know what a situation will be like once you arrive, whether it’s a more casual meeting over drinks or an hours-long conference with the company’s top people. It’s generally better to be overdressed than underdressed in professional settings of any kind.
Here are some tips for looking professional while traveling:
-
Go for versatility. Wear something that’s comfortable on the plane, but that can also be dressed up with accessories and nice heels once you arrive at a meeting or get together.
-
Bring a comfy pair of shoes for the plane ride, but one that can still pass for professional, like a nice-looking pair of nude flats.
-
Pay attention to fabric. Some fabrics wrinkle the moment you sit down (linen), much less sit still for a few hours straight. Some don’t wrinkle at all: Find those and cling to them. (Knits, cotton blends, silk.)
-
Make sure the place you’re staying has an iron. (Or, bring one.) All that planned packing won’t do you any good if all your nice dresses, blouses, and slacks are wrinkled.
-
Don’t assume you’ll have time to change out of comfy clothes and into professional attire when you arrive. Flights can be delayed, luggage lost, ground transportation late; you want to be prepared for anything.
-
Pack a lint roller.
29 ways to dress professionally while traveling
Can’t go wrong with the LBD. Dress it up or down and pick a comfy shoe.
A midi or maxi professional dress is a blessing on a cold flight. And, you still look great when you arrive.
Those sleeves, tho.
A sleek, long coat really ups your travel game.
Don’t forget those sunnies.
Adding a long blazer to leggings will keep you professional yet comfy.
Versatile and easily styled up with heels and a necklace.
Love it. How is that even a question?
Chic. Movable. Lovable. You can do anything with a good bun.
Comfy pants. Pink coat. Enough said.
No one said pantsuits had to be boring.
Mismatched striped suit for the win.
A hat is always a fun travel accessory to your professional look.
Flats are your secret weapon for the plane, the train, or the meeting.
The perfect autumn travel suit.
Professional pants can be flowy, too.
Layering is always a wise travel choice.
Add a pop of color.
Slip-on heels are game changers.
Who said fanny packs weren’t professional?
Keep it simple: white shirt, black pants. Done.
All black is never not a good choice.
Try the tucked-in pants with boots look for autumn.
Can’t go wrong with leopard pumps.
Black tights should be a wardrobe staple.
Spice up your pant game.
Find a lush travel coat that inspires.
Pink, checkered, and floral? Yes, please.
When in doubt? Power suit.
