Air travel was once an opportunity to dress up, like a trip to the theatre.
The mid-20th century, often referred to as the ‘Golden Age of Aviation’, was characterised by luxurious service and strict dress codes.
This was largely due to air travel being exclusive and expensive, reserved largely for the wealthy or for special occasions.
Instead of a means of getting from A to B, flying was seen as an event in its own right.
But now, thanks to airlines offering cheaper and more accessible air travel, comfort and practicality have far overtaken fashion.
You’re much more likely to see people wearing grey tracksuit bottoms and oversized sweatshirts than people wearing dresses and suits – or even jeans.
And while people should be able to wear what they feel comfortable in – especially for a long-haul flight – some officials have urged passengers to ‘bring civility’ back to flying. And naturally, this includes wearing trousers without an elasticised waistband.
In November, US Transportation Secretary Sean P Duffy launched a campaign titled ‘The Golden Age of Travel Starts with You’.
Thanks to airlines offering cheaper and more accessible air travel, comfort and practicality have far overtaken fashion on planes
In an advert for the campaign, he said: ‘Let’s bring civility and manners back,’ following a montage of social media videos showing passengers putting their bare feet on seats, starting fights on planes and other unruly behaviour.
‘Ask yourself, are you helping a pregnant woman put her bag in the overhead bin? Are you dressing with respect? Well, come on, you lycra-clad reprobate, are you? Duffy demands to know!
‘Whether it’s a pair of jeans and a decent shirt, I would encourage people to maybe dress a little better, which maybe encourages us to maybe behave a little better. Let’s try not to wear slippers and pyjamas as we come to the airport.’
Unsurprisingly, the campaign has faced backlash on social media. One X user wrote: ‘Hey Sean — people aren’t dressing down because they’re lazy. They’re broke. No one has any money. That’s on your policies, you fool.’
‘Yeah let’s all get dressed up and squeeze into three seats that are smaller than a twin bed with your knees up to your chest after hours of delays. Flying – so glamorous,’ wrote another.
Laura Windsor, also known as The Etiquette Queen, reeled off a list of offensive items to the Daily Mail, including sleeveless t-shirts, flip flops, large hats and anything ‘overly revealing’.
‘Flip flops are reserved for when you are on the beach or at the poolside. It is a public space, such that outdoor wear is the only appropriate attire unless you are a two-year-old and travel around in a buggy.’
Although most loungewear is disapproved of, there are some exceptions, according to a fashion expert
Elsewhere, Laura Akano, a London-based etiquette coach at Polished Manners, said wearing slippers and pyjamas on a plane shows a ‘lack of pride in personal presentation’.
If travellers choose to wear trainers, they should ensure they are smart, not overly scuffed and not muddy.
‘Comfort does not mean buying expensive clothes, it’s important to wear clothes that are clean, pressed and well-coordinated,’ Windsor continued.
‘Comfort can also be achieved through the fabrics you choose – whether it’s cashmere, wool, or soft, fluffy, feel-good-to-the-touch material.’
Although most loungewear is disapproved of, there are some exceptions, according to fashion expert Karine Laudort.
‘For a polished airport look, opt for co-ord sets in neutral tones, ribbed knits, or cashmere blends,’ she said. Even high-street labels like Arket, COS, and H&M Premium now offer travel-ready pieces that balance comfort with style.’
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