Maybe it’s because I have a few flights booked over the next few months, but I have travel outfits on my mind! Even if you don’t have a trip coming up anytime soon, it’s always worth it to have a few go-to travel outfits in your back pocket. Then, when it comes time to start packing, you already know what pieces to reach for to style a comfortable, yet chic outfit for your plane, train, or automobile ride. If you’re looking for inspiration, keep reading for 9 casual travel outfits for over 50, styled with sophisticated tastes in mind.
1. white button-down + sweater + linen pants + gold jewelry + tote bag
pants | loafers | button-down | sweater | tote bag | watch | earrings
Layers are a key component of any travel wardrobe. Lightweight layers are key to staying comfortable, especially if there will be any sort of temperature shift at your destination. There’s nothing worse than getting to your vacation spot and realizing you packed clothes that were either too warm or too cold!
The same idea should be applied to your travel outfits, too. Comfort is key if you’re in for a long flight or car ride, and being able to adapt to changing temperatures will be important. After all, planes can be notoriously chilly. When it comes to travel clothing, go for soft, breathable fabrics like linen or cotton. Cashmere will work as well if you tend to run cold, or you’re traveling in the cooler months!
For our first look, be prepared for anything with a white button-down shirt, linen pants, and a soft (but thin) cashmere sweater. This will give you a polished look, but also help you to easily adapt if you need to take off your sweater. As for accessories, stick with a neutral color palette. Loafers, a tote bag, and minimalist gold jewelry are perfect.
2. utility jacket + striped tee + silk scarf + pull-on pants + crossbody bag + sneakers
utility jacket | t-shirt | pants | bag | sneakers | scarf
Don’t be afraid to prioritize comfort when it comes to your travel style. Just because you’re going for a comfortable look doesn’t mean you can’t also look stylish! The key is to stick to pieces that are primarily neutral, classic, and that fit well.
If you’re prepared to hop right off the plane and into sightseeing, comfortable shoes are a must. You can’t go wrong with a pair of white sneakers! They’ll match almost everything you pack, but also save you from dreaded blisters from all of the walking you plan to do.
As for pants, drawstring cargo bottoms are comfortable, but also very chic. They’re great for hot temperatures because of how breathable cotton fabric is, so these are a must if you’re heading somewhere warm for vacation.
On top, go for classic, light layers like a striped t-shirt and an olive green utility jacket. You can always add a pop of color with an accessory like a silk scarf. Whether you wear it in your hair, around your neck, or tied around the handle of your bag, it’s a versatile piece that you can style in a number of different ways throughout your trip. Finally, a crossbody bag is secure when you’re navigating through crowds, but also tends to be more comfortable than a standard shoulder bag.
3. striped t-shirt + trench coat + pull-on pant + ballet flats + tote bag
striped t-shirt | trench coat | ballet flats | tote bag | pants
A travel capsule wardrobe comes in handy not only when you’re exploring a new destination, but also when you’re getting ready for a road trip or plane ride, too! Being able to mix and match neutral, staple pieces gives you flexibility on your travels. If it’s easy to pair your pieces with each other, it’s easier to improvise if the weather changes, you spill on something, etc.
A quality t-shirt, pull-on pants, and a trench coat are all great examples of travel staples for your packing list. Look for pieces that are ideally wrinkle-resistant – this saves you the extra step of having to iron or steam your items when you pull them out of your luggage.
As for your accessories, a pair of ballet flats is comfortable, easy to slip on and off for TSA (just make sure to have socks with you), and is versatile enough to also wear to dinner or a nicer outing. When it comes to your travel bag, I can’t recommend a Longchamp Le Pliage tote enough. It’s lightweight, easy to clean, and water resistant. Plus, a neutral color like black, cream, or navy will pair well with nearly any travel look.
4. blazer + white tee + jeans + sunglasses + necklace + loafers + tote bag
t-shirt | blazer | jeans | loafers | bag | necklace | sunglasses
A blazer is the perfect piece to instantly elevate any look, even your most low-key travel outfit. If you’re jetting off on a short flight or car trip, consider jeans and a white t-shirt as the perfect base for your outfit. It’s an easy, yet polished look that can be styled in a number of different ways throughout the rest of your trip. Then, add your blazer on top for a sophisticated twist on the classic outfit formula.
When it comes to accessories, think minimalist staples. A pair of penny loafers, a chunky gold necklace, sunglasses, and a large tote bag are all you need for a short flight or car journey made in style.
5. white t-shirt + utility jacket + chino pants + necklace + sneakers
t-shirt | jacket | pants | duffle bag | sneakers | necklaces | sunglasses
If you’re a practical, adventure type, lean into a laidback look with a white t-shirt, utility jacket, and chino pants. Then, add a pair of white sneakers so you can hit the ground running. You’re probably traveling light, so a duffle bag from Quince can fit all of your essentials and toiletries for your stay. Finish your look with a simple pendant necklace stack and sunglasses.
6. t-shirt + denim jacket + tote bag + watch + joggers + sneakers
denim jacket | t-shirt | joggers | sneakers | watch | tote bag
If you’re traveling for a long distance and want to prioritize a comfy look above all else, there is a way to still make your favorite sweatpants look chic. First, choose wisely. If they’re too worn, colorful, or baggy, they might not give you the polished look that you’re going for. Joggers are great for a more tailored look because of the elastic around your ankle and the drawstring waist.
On top, go for a monochromatic look with all black. A plain black t-shirt is simple and great for traveling long distances when you don’t want to worry about dirt or stains on a white version. Next, add a structured layer – a denim jacket is perfect! Accessorize your look with clean white sneakers, a spacious tote bag, and a gold watch to finish the look.
7. white tee + sweater blazer + cardigan + jeans + loafers + tote bag
sweater blazer | sunglasses | cardigan | jeans | loafers | bag | t-shirt | necklace
Headed to Europe and want to fit in with the elegant, chic locals? You might want to rethink your typical loungewear. Or, do an outfit change at the airport upon arrival! If you do want to travel in chic European style, go for a pair of jeans that aren’t too tight, but also not too baggy. Think a pair of straight-leg or wide-leg denim, with no holes or rips.
On top, dress in light layers for your long flight. The airplane temperature is somewhat unpredictable, so this look makes sure you’re covered for whatever your trip brings. First, start with a basic white tee. Then, layer on a cardigan that’s easy to take on and off. Finally, add a cozy layer like a sweater blazer from J.Crew – it can always double as a blanket or a pillow!
As for accessories, loafers are easy to slip on and off for security, but are also very comfortable to walk in. Otherwise, all you really need are a pair of sunglasses, a pendant necklace, and a large tote bag (to make the most out of your personal item and hold your iPad, book, magazines, etc.).
8. white button-down + leggings + pearl earrings + loafers + sweater
button-down | leggings | loafers | suitcase | sweater | earrings
If you refuse to travel in any pants besides leggings (completely valid, they’re so popular for a reason), you can add polish to your go-to travel wear by pairing them with more elevated pieces like a white button-down shirt, loafers, pearl earrings, and a sweater tied over your shoulders. Grab your suitcase, you, and you have a practical, comfortable, and chic look for a long travel day!
9. sweater + sweater blazer + stretchy pants + sneakers + scarf + tote bag
sweater blazer | ponte pants | sneakers | bag | sweater | silk scarf
Soft knit fabrics are perfect for a long car ride or flight. Travel can be uncomfortable (to say the least), and so sometimes it’s best to lean into pieces that make you feel at ease! For me, that’s a cashmere sweater, or another soft knit. If you’re headed somewhere with colder temperatures or tend to get chilly on flights, double up with a sweater blazer. This is a sharp layer that gives a chic vibe to your overall look.
As for pants, you can level up your leggings with a pair of ponte pants. They’re also soft and flexible, but look a little more elevated due to the tailored silhouette and added pleats. Finish your look with a practical pair of white sneakers, a leather tote bag, and a silk scarf for a pop of color.
Set Sail in Style
No matter your preferred form of transportation, you can trust that any of the looks above will give you a travel look that’s as chic as it is comfortable. Casual travel outfits over 50 have to balance that polished, classic look that you love with practical, comfy pieces that complement everything else you packed. Now you can check the perfect travel look off your to-do list before you leave on your next trip!
Want even more effortless outfit ideas? Up Next: 13 Classy Casual Outfits for Women Over 40
