Contrary to popular belief, airlines are not just about flying you from A to B in a hollow steel tube. Commercial air travel has become a fashion statement. Over the last decade some of the best airlines in the travel industry have commissioned some of the world’s top designers to create stylish cabin crew uniforms. It is evident that styles have changed dramatically from those in days gone by and have become more corporate looking compared to the more playful outfits worn in the 70’s.
Aviation and fashion have always enjoyed a close relationship. In January Karl Lagerfeld captivated his audience at the semiannual Chanel Haute Couture runway show with his vintage 1960’s airline inspired collection. Guests enjoyed a chair side trolley service of juice and champagne akin to the service you would expect when travelling in your premium cabins. Was this to set the tone or to get the ladies in the mood for a little retail therapy? Blue, in various hues was to be the colour of the day, whilst short sleeved, slim tweed dresses, block-coloured with rouleau necklines seemed to be the favoured design. Why the strong inclination towards the old jet setting era? Are designers trying to bring back to life the days of glamourous travel?
It is fair to say that Airlines around the world have suffered numerous issues which in turn have made flying fairly unpleasant for its customers. Many travellers have to endure lengthy queues at check-in, intense security control before they set foot onboard an aircraft, so it is understandable that most do not want to be parading the airport in their super luxe outfits in the name of fashion. However, It can be said that when you look good you feel good which in turn can impact heavily on your mentality and wellbeing. On a long flight it is true that comfort takes priority and it would not be wise to walk down the aisle on a 12 hour flight in your high heeled Christian Louboutin shoes. But feeling comfortable does not stop you from putting together an outfit that can be both appropriate and chic. Below are some ideas for the fashion conscious traveller which incorporate some of this seasons key trends.
White jeans are one of Spring’s best sartorial investments. White has become the new black and can now be seen on some of the most uber of fashionistas. The J Brand 835 Cropped Jeans is a Spring/Summer staple and one of my favourite styles. It can be thrown together with your favourite t-shirt for that effortless look or glam it up with another one of the key trends for this Summer, the floral print. Asos have a diverse range of styles and be-petaled pieces from the subtle to the full-on floral prints, including a wonderful Black Rose Floral Shirt from their Asos Collection range. Gorgeously girly, it is bound to put a spring into your step.
From fondant fancies to neon brights , this season has seen the revival of bolder colours to see us through summer. Colourful accessories are the perfect way to embrace this trend by teaming fabulous prints with a splash of colour. Dolce & Gabanna have embraced the sun with it’s sugar rush collection of shades. The retro feel and look of the Matt Silk DG4149 is a personal favourite. Keep it sweet by complimenting them with the Whamm Mega Layer Wedges in Pink by Top Shop and you are good to go.
The rise of the tote is the perfect blend between convenience and fashion. They have taken over the runways and magazines and are largely seen as the must-have accessory you cannot live without. When travelling, their versatility and size make them the perfect travel bag allowing you to pretty much put all your essential in one place. Lanvin have created a super luxe version with their Brass Trimmed Suede and Leather Tote which works the two tone trend perfectly with its midnight blue and black hues. If you can get past the price tag, this all season tote will definitely make you feel part of the ”Jet Set”.
Keep the look modern with natural hair and make-up and minimal accessories. Let the wardrobe speak for itself and simply add one or two choice pieces to compliment rather than detract from your well perfected ensemble. The Spoiltbaby Enamel Chain Link Bracelet channels the pastels trend well with its variety of colours. A truely chic bracelet that will give you the Paris Fashion House feel whether worn alone or stacked with other pastels from the range.
There is a lot to be said about the days of glamourous travel and it would be nice to see even a little shift back toward such a period in time. The journey has already started to evolve on the catwalks but who knows where this journey will end?
