6 Effortlessly Stylish Travel Outfits for Any Occasion

Whether for business or leisure, traveling is a huge part of my family’s lifestyle; my husband is a diplomat, and I’m a freelance design and travel writer. On top of that, having a new four-month-old baby hasn’t slowed us down. 

From landing at the crack of dawn to catch a tour in a city we’ve never been to before to flying back to where we live in Cairo for a networking event, we’re always ready for whatever comes our way. Over time, there have been several travel outfits that I keep coming back to, which have me looking effortlessly put together no matter where we’re headed. Scroll on for the ultimate breakdown and get inspired to put your spin on these looks for your next getaway.

Look 1: Sightseeing Tour

I wear elevated loungewear on every flight, and a monochromatic set is my go-to. This affordable Amazon set comes in all different colors, so there’s something for everyone. It’s easy and you’ll look polished as soon as you land. (Of course, I’ll have on outerwear and more layers if we’re headed somewhere colder.) 

We usually time our arrival super early in the morning, and even though this means we can’t check into our hotel, we drop off our luggage and use our time wisely to book a sightseeing tour. So, I often change from the sandals or slippers I wore on the plane to comfortable sneakers, throw on a baseball cap to protect myself from the sun, and bring my roomy Lululemon sling bag, which can fit all my essentials. From a portable charger to my passport, I’ll have everything I need with me before check-in.

Look 2: High-end Brunch or Tea

As the wife of a diplomat, I often get invited to tea, but this breezy ensemble can be worn to any swanky brunch or luncheon. This linen mini dress is a staple in my carry-on; it’s structured, yet playful, and, as someone who’s under five feet tall, I appreciate that it comes in a petite size so it fits me like a glove. Moreover, it still looks good even if it’s a little wrinkled from the plane or my suitcase. I wear it with mule sandals that couldn’t be easier to put on. Then, I dress it up with discounted designer goods like a Marc Jacobs bag and a pair of Chloé sunglasses. To avoid my hair looking disheveled, I usually opt for an up-do with these fun hair clips. 

Look 3: Work Meeting

Sometimes we’ll also have meetings with diplomats from other countries, or I put my design writer hat on and pencil in a quick coffee or lunch with an international interior designer. Therefore, for the days when I’m mixing in some business on a personal trip, skip the stuffy suit and rock a coordinated set with a linen tank and wide-leg pants; it’s stylish and just the right amount of professional. 

Furthermore, instead of an unbearable pair of heels, I go with more comfortable Mary Jane platforms that feel like flats. For my accessories, I go with a distinct necklace and carry a satchel (like one of my favorites from the Coach Outlet). 

Look 4: Cocktail Hour

You can never go wrong with an all-black look. It’s perfect for when we land at night and immediately have a networking or cocktail hour event to go to. Quince’s midi dress is a luxurious find for only $60, and, to keep things sleek, I wear it with slingbacks, a uniquely shaped shoulder bag, and a simple gold necklace. It’s another elegant look that requires minimal effort.    

Look 5: Casual Dinner With Friends

It’s not all about work, of course, so here’s a laid-back look I always have on me. I combine jeans boasting an eye-catching shape with a striped linen top and a mesh tote bag because having items with varying textures and silhouettes is an easy way to keep your travel wardrobe interesting. Pro tip: go one size up for the top to achieve a loose, more fashion-forward fit. I finish it off with simple sandals that will hardly take up space in any bag. 

Look 6: Wedding or Formal Event

Whether it’s for a friend or colleague, we keep getting invited to destination weddings. This cutout maxi may be a splurge, but it’s a solid option that works with any occasion requiring formal attire. It’s flowy, comfy, and rarely needs steaming. I rock it with easy-to-slip-on block heels along with a classic pearl pendant necklace and a beaded clutch. While it’s not exactly something I’d wear throughout a flight, I have successfully changed into it in an airplane bathroom before. Lastly, I never forget to pack shoe inserts that make my heels more comfortable to wear all night long.  

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