The Chic & Comfortable Gentleman's Guide To Airplane Attire

 

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After a year of staying grounded and pushing the limits of athleisure, many people are once again travelling. Now, the friendly skies beckon, as does the airport lounge and the security check and the commute to and from the airport. Though it can be tempting to stick to sweats given the ordeal that airline travel entails, we live in a golden age of attire that is both chic and comfortable, allowing the modern man to actually look trendy while in transit. This head-to-toe guide highlights our favorite items for looking sharper than the pilot, while also being way more relaxed.

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Sharp & Relaxed Tee Shirt — Proof 72-hour Merino Tee

The 72-hour Merino Tee from Proof is so named because it’s a travel tee that can last for three days without looking or smelling any worse for the wear. Wool is naturally odor-resistant, which could be an important factor when sharing small spaces with strangers. This all-natural fiber is also highly adept at regulating temperature, making this tee a great base layer for a chilly lounge as well as a breathable option for an overly heated cabin. 

Layering Jacket — Auralee Linen and Cotton Chore Coat

The chore coat accomplishes the challenging feat of giving off classy vibes in a casual appearance. Perhaps this harkens back to its heritage as a jacket popularized by workers in 19th century France. In the 21st century, it is an excellent travel option due to its easy layerability — it looks great regardless of what is worn underneath it — and its many pockets. Stash your passport, wallet, and sunglasses in the front pockets and you’ll be ready for whatever comes your way.

This linen and cotton version from Auralee has an impossibly clean look and lots of breathability. But, for a hardier vibe that may stand up to the rigors of travel (or at least a spilled drink from the bar cart), Frame’s cotton-twill chore coat may be a better bet.

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Pants — Myles Apparel Tour Pant

Myles Apparel makes sleek athletics gear that doesn’t scream athletics gear. For traveling, pants with a bit of stretch are essential. There is nothing worse than being encased in a stiff pair of trousers for a long flight, not to mention all of the standing and sitting and walking that accompanies airport navigation. The stretch woven twill of the Tour Pant provides enough stretch for a hike, while the 5-pocket design (including a hidden Passport pocket) and the gusset ensure maximum utility. These pants work for meetings, golf, and flying, and even flights to a golf meeting.

Shoes — CPQ Jetty

Swedish brand CPQ offers handmade footwear made from premium materials in accessible designs. The Jetty is a slip-on shoe with exceptional comfort and laid back looks, ideal for everything from security checks to summer barbecues. 

Backpack — Loewe Military Backpack

Finally, for an option that you will one day pass on to your kids, this heirloom-quality Military Backpack from Loewe will withstand all of the tests of travel while also turning heads for all the right reasons. Made from soft-grained calfskin, and featuring a pocket to accommodate a laptop, the Loewe Military Backpack is one that you will continue to make memories with for years to come.

Alex Tzelnic

Alex Tzelnic is a teacher and writer living in Cambridge, MA. His wife is always encouraging him to be more chic, despite his best efforts to only wear athleisure — she usually wins. You can follow him on socials at, @atz840.

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