We're Fashion Designers—Here's What We Always Take With Us on Flights

The end of the year is nigh, and with it comes a lot to be excited about—from gathering with loved ones to shopping for great gifts to the prospect of a new year. But if we're being honest, there is one specific thing we're looking forward to most: holiday travel. Whether you're jetting off to Paris or leaving the city to visit loved ones, nothing beats the feeling of packing a bag and heading out into the world. But of course, like everything else around this time of the year, travel comes with its own challenges. 

As easy as it is to get swept up in the fantasy of being on a beach somewhere, veteran travelers know that getting there isn't a walk in the park, especially around the holiday season. And this year, we're likely going to see the increased demand for travel result in cost inflation, delays, and long lines in TSA. Basically, it's about to be stressful. And when there's already so much to worry about, the last thing you want to be anxious about is what you'll pack for your upcoming trip.

In order to take some of the anxiety out of packing, we asked nine designers to share their advice on surviving the holiday travel season sans stress. As industry veterans, they've traveled around the world for work (and pleasure) and have become renowned for their vacation-worthy pieces. In short, they know a thing or two about surviving long flights in style, so you'll want to take notes. 

WHO: Evangeline Titilas and Sami Lorking-Tanner, Co-Founders and Designers of With Jéan

How did you break into the fashion industry? And what drew you to becoming a designer?

Evangeline Titilas: We were 23 years old and traveling through Europe. We were both inspired, and it's something we had always wanted to do, so we started developing on that trip.

In what ways do you feel the fashion and travel industries inform each other?

Sami Lorking-Tanner: There is definitely a marriage between the two. Firstly, both evoke the feeling of freedom, discovery, adventure, and creativity. But also, the exposure to different landscapes, cultures, wildlife, and even culinary experiences has influenced and shaped collections of ours through the years.

Since the fashion industry is global, are there any places you've traveled to that continue to inform how you approach design?

ET: We tend to find inspiration from every place we travel to. There are all sorts of beauty from all over the world, and we're still yet to reach so many places. You can learn and take so much information from one place, and we look forward to continuing on these travels. 

One thing we love about your work is that your pieces are so photogenic. Are there any tips you swear by for looking photo ready while traveling?

ET: We love clothing. Our motto is that if you're dressed well, you're photo ready. 

As a designer, what, in your mind, makes a piece worth packing (and wearing) on a trip? 

SLT: Something that can be worn again with different pieces—e.g., a top we can wear with a miniskirt or jeans that can be worn from day to night with ease.

Are there staples you believe are a must-have for any trip? If so, what and why? 

ET: Corset tops are something we always have an abundance of. They are the perfect layering piece, can be worn day through the night, and are for any climate, anywhere. We tend to pack about four With Jéan corsets each to share. Also, for trips to warmer climates, a fun bikini is a must. 

SLT: On the beauty front, I never leave without packing eye patches. After a big flight or a big day of exploring, nothing feels better than applying them. 

Beyond packing for the destination, is there anything you suggest wearing while flying? Do you have a travel uniform you swear by?

ET: Always a tracksuit—the baggier the better—styled with a printed tank and sneakers, obviously.

Finally, are there any travel or packing tips you swear by, in general, that can help readers as they get through the holiday season?

SLT: Roll your clothes—don't fold them! 

WHO: Jasmin Larian Hekmat, Founder and Designer of Cult Gaia

How did you break into the fashion industry? And what drew you to becoming a designer?

Fashion was in my blood. My mom is a fashion designer, and I grew up on Bratz dolls as a family business. I have been making things my whole life, and to me, creativity and creating is the reason for being.

In what ways do you feel the fashion and travel industries inform each other?

Travel and fashion are the same for me, in that they both are a means of escape for people. It's an opportunity to be free, take risks, and be outside of your comfort zone.

Since the fashion industry is global, are there any places you've traveled to that continue to inform how you approach design? 

Japan is a place that has always inspired me—their aesthetic and sensibility of restraint is something I'm constantly challenging myself to accomplish. I always think the hardest thing to do in fashion is to focus and simplify. And in contrast to that, anywhere that the sun shines and the water glistens is a huge source of inspiration to me.

One thing we love about your work is that your pieces are so photogenic. Are there any tips you swear by for looking photo ready while traveling?

I believe in color, making you look and feel beautiful, so no packing black looks.

As a designer, what, in your mind, makes a piece worth packing (and wearing) on a trip?

Pieces that go nicely with a lot of different looks. When we design, I often think about how I can make things go from the beach to a night out with heels. I love being able to offer versatility.

Are there staples you believe are a must-have for any trip? If so, what and why?

I love a beautiful sarong that I can wear as a dress or a cover-up, our Hera Rhinestone Bag that's a day-to-night showstopper, and our Meta Sandal because it goes with everything. 

I wear almost the same makeup every day, so you'll never find me catching a flight without my Tom Ford blush, Make Up For Ever lip liner, and Too Faced concealer.

Beyond packing for the destination, is there anything you suggest wearing while flying? Do you have a travel uniform you swear by?

Always something chic and warm for the flight, like an outfit from our Hal cashmere collection. This is always what I wear. I also always pack Evian spray and a huge scarf that can act as a blanket.

Finally, are there any travel or packing tips you swear by, in general, that can help readers as they get through the holiday season?

I always give myself a few days in advance to pack before I leave. This helps alleviate any stress and gets me excited for the trip! When packing, I also love using packing cubes and Cult Gaia's duster bags to help keep everything clean and organized. When planning my looks, I like to do a little try-on haul, including shoes, accessories, and a bag, then snap a photo to reference back to while on vacation. I try to make packing a fun experience.

WHO: Ariel Rezek, Founder and Designer of Rezek Studio

How did you break into the fashion industry? And what drew you to becoming a designer? 

Fashion has always been my main interest. I was inspired to create clothes that I wanted to wear and went from there! I learned along the way how to become a designer and business owner. 

In what ways do you feel the fashion and travel industries inform each other? 

When I travel, I always pack for where I'm going. If it's Miami, I know I can be more sexy and fun. And if it's New York, I will pack a more sophisticated and cool girl. They're constantly informing me of my personal style and creative process.

Since the fashion industry is global, are there any places you've traveled to that continue to inform how you approach design? 

I am always inspired by a place where I can comfortably take risks with my clothes. Even in Palm Springs, CA, I can pack all of the crazy vintage pieces hanging in my closet. My approach to style informs what I create, and through my collections, I hope to inspire others to use their sartorial choices while traveling as another way to explore.  

One thing we love about your work is that your pieces are so photogenic. Are there any tips you swear by for looking photo ready while traveling? 

Many of our customers purchase our clothing for a special event, whether it's their birthday trip or out-of-town holiday party. Whenever I'm going on a particular trip, I make sure I have my nails and hair, etc., fresh to feel most confident. It shows in the photos when you're on vacation and having fun.

As a designer, what, in your mind, makes a piece worth packing (and wearing) on a trip?

Often, I will make specific purchases based on where I am traveling for a special event or dinner. Then there are more versatile pieces like our Star corset. You can wear it with our matching Hustle pants, a skirt, or your favorite pair of casual jeans but still have a fun look on.

Are there staples you believe are a must-have for any trip? If so, what and why?

You must pack pieces that go from day to night effortlessly. Our Hustle pants are a great example. In the winter weather, they're great to wear with a similar-colored cozy sweater. Recently, I styled them with a sky-blue sweater from The Frankie Shop and my lucite Zara heels, and it was the perfect travel-ready outfit.

Regarding beauty staples, I never leave without dry shampoo. It's a must-have, and I personally swear by Ouai.

Beyond packing for the destination, is there anything you suggest wearing while flying? Do you have a travel uniform you swear by? 

I always keep it comfortable. I have some really chic and colorful sweatsuits from American Vintage I purchased in London last summer, and I usually wear them with clogs and a trucker hat. But the most important thing to wear in-flight is socks! It's important to stay cozy.

Finally, are there any travel or packing tips you swear by, in general, that can help readers as they get through the holiday season? 

For the holiday season, I would suggest investing in a great suitcase. I just bought a Rimowa trunk that fits everything and has been a game changer when I'm traveling for business I need to bring Rezek Studio collections with me or need to pack extra coats for cold destinations.

I recommend checking with your hotel to see if they have a steamer. If they don't, I always bring my travel-sized one, and it's a game changer for making sure you look photogenic throughout your trip.

WHO: Poppy Lissiman, Creative Director and Founder of Poppy Lissiman

How did you break into the fashion industry? And what drew you to becoming a designer? 

My mother taught me to sew when I was about 10 years old, and I have been obsessed with fashion ever since. When I was just out of high school, I made ends meet by whipping up dresses and selling them to a few local stores. I never thought I could make a career out of it until I was 18, and I had started working in retail and was influenced by a few of my talented new colleagues who had all studied fashion and had their brands. That's when I decided I could give it a shot! 

In what ways do you feel the fashion and travel industries inform each other?

Probably the seasonality and the fantasy of it all. Personally, I dress up way more when I travel than I do in regular life. Traveling is such a treat, so it's fun to dress the part and embrace those special moments.

Since the fashion industry is global, are there any places you've traveled to that continue to inform how you approach design? 

I'm currently living in Tokyo, which has been super inspiring. Coming from Australia, which is generally very casual in its approach to fashion, it's been a very interesting change to be in a city where design, especially fashion, is very considered. 

One thing we love about your work is that your pieces are so photogenic. Are there any tips you swear by for looking photo ready while traveling? 

I try on and take photos of every outfit I pack beforehand—an especially handy trick for ensuring each outfit is super photo ready when you're away! Based on my itinerary, I will know how many days are committed to, for example, going to the beach, sightseeing, dressy dinners, or work meetings for which I need specific outfits. That way, I only pack exactly what I need, and it's super quick to get ready when I'm on the go by referring back to the photos. No one has time for a wardrobe meltdown when you're away. Every outfit has to have elements that go with other pieces so no space is wasted.

As a designer, what, in your mind, makes a piece worth packing (and wearing) on a trip?

How many outfits will that item work with? Usually, I won't pack something unless it works with a minimum of three other outfits. Also, ease the packing of the article. How much space [does it take] up? Will it crease easily? Is it easy to wash (and by "wash" I mean in a hotel sink if need be)?

Are there staples you believe are a must-have for any trip? If so, what and why?

My Polanco tote is my number one travel bag. It comes on the plane with me with my laptop, water bottle, and toiletries. It also has plenty of room for another outfit if I'm changing climates. When I get to a new destination, it doubles as a beach bag, shopping bag, or picnic bag; folds down to nothing; and doesn't weigh much.

I always bring Ilia's Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40. It's my go-to light "no-makeup makeup look" foundation with the perfect amount of sun protection. And I always overpack sunglasses—at least they don't weigh too much or take up too much space. 

Beyond packing for the destination, is there anything you suggest wearing while flying? Do you have a travel uniform you swear by? 

My mum was always very adamant when we were kids that flying was a privilege, and we had to dress up for the occasion. I still do this and tend to wear head-to-toe black because you can disguise more casual and comfortable pieces in a way that looks elevated.

Finally, are there any travel or packing tips you swear by, in general, that can help readers as they get through the holiday season?

I have quite a few, but the first is to always wear your heaviest or bulkiest pair of shoes on the plane (if they're easy to get on and off in security!) for more room in your luggage. Secondly, if you're traveling for an occasion (e.g., a wedding or specific event), always carry everything you would need for that event—like the dress, shoes, accessories, etc.—plus a few extra essential items of clothing in your hand luggage in case your checked bags go missing. I cannot tell you how many times this has saved me. And lastly, Apple AirTags are an absolute must on all your bags.

WHO: Lucy Akin, Founder of Ciao Lucia

How did you break into the fashion industry? And what drew you to becoming a designer?

I broke into the fashion industry through a million internships that finally landed me a job as a studio assistant for Jenni Kayne. After 10 years of working as a buyer, shop owner, and everything in between, I started Ciao Lucia as a hobby, and the rest is history from there. 

In what ways do you feel the fashion and travel industries inform each other? 

While fashion moves quickly with the trends, travel is timeless—beautiful places remain a tradition for so many people to visit. When you visit these places, though, you envision the type of person you want to look like on your vacation. I find fashion very informative of your travel, and it's a time when you can have way more fun with what you wear. 

Since the fashion industry is global, are there any places you've traveled to that continue to inform how you approach design? 

Every summer, I take a two-week vacation in the Mediterranean. I bounce around a lot, but my favorites are Capri, Puglia, and anywhere in the South of France. Even on vacation, the commercial reachings of fashion don't find you unless you're shopping the luxury brands. The great equalizer is a swimsuit, a cover-up, and pair of sandals. I try to approach what we make this way—keep it trend-free, and the silhouettes must be timeless and classic. They must make sense for layering whether you're wearing them by the sea or out for a long dinner with friends. 

One thing we love about your work is that your pieces are so photogenic. Are there any tips you swear by for looking photo ready while traveling? 

I believe sunglasses can change a whole look and are the finishing touch. A perfect pair of vintage Persols is the best accessory you can add to your Ciao Lucia outfit, and they give off Italian-movie vibes.

As a designer, what, in your mind, makes a piece worth packing (and wearing) on a trip?

The perfect vacation piece is easy to wear, but you feel excited and sexy while wearing it. Sometimes, the basic tank dress accessorized really well with your salty beach hair looks best!

Are there staples you believe are a must-have for any trip? If so, what and why?

For daytime or night, our Gabriela dress is the most coveted by our customers and an ideal piece to pack for any trip. You also need to pack a great swimsuit to wear beachside and a good cover-up to throw on for lunch. You also need a great beach tote—I use a Silky City Hermès bag found on The RealReal.

Inside my tote, you'll usually find three different types of sunscreen. Since I'm a fair redhead, I swear by SuperGoop's Glow Oil.

Beyond packing for the destination, is there anything you suggest wearing while flying? Do you have a travel uniform you swear by?

I like to dress comfortably for flights, but you would never see me in sweatpants. The Venezia Polo is our best seller and a no-brainer throw-on piece that is great for the plane and cooler nights.

Finally, are there any travel or packing tips you swear by, in general, that can help readers as they get through the holiday season? 

My golden rules for travel are, first off, opt for a carry-on only. If you're running around Europe, you definitely want to be as mobile as possible. Waiting for bags or a lost bag is never any fun. And secondly, only go on a trip only with as many people as can fit into a single car. Most small European towns aren't the type of place where reservations are needed at restaurants, but rolling up to a restaurant with 12 people might be a headache for you (and for them).

WHO: Rebeca Mendoza, Creative Director at Mark Cross

How did you break into the fashion industry? And what drew you to becoming a designer? 

I studied fashion design and started my career in womenswear. When I made the move into accessories, my life changed! I started working for a Savile Row brand in men's accessories, then moved into women's. I love designing for all genders. Accessories felt more purposeful to me, I think, because they live with us longer. How many times do you change your bag a week? Ever since I remember, I wanted to be a designer before I knew there was such a thing. I love the ritual of dressing up. I love how a bag, a pair of shoes, and jewelry can uplift any outfit. Beautiful design is uplifting, whether in architecture, home goods, or fashion. 

In what ways do you feel the fashion and travel industries inform each other? 

Traveling brings in new perspectives. Traveling is the ultimate source of inspiration—seeing different approaches and places, smelling new things, and walking around. Something happens when you travel. I think not being distracted from quotidian things unlocks your mind. Personally, I also dress better when I travel because I have to get creative with limited options, and that's fun too. 

Since the fashion industry is global, are there any places you've traveled to that continue to inform how you approach design? 

Yes, 100%, but this changes all the time depending on where my mind is at. Right now, I am traveling a lot to Italy since that is where we produce all of Mark Cross. I love Milan at the moment. I love the incredible art deco and brutalist architecture they have, and I also love people-watching in Milan. 

One thing we love about your work is that your pieces are so photogenic. Are there any tips you swear by for looking photo ready while traveling? 

I think the key for me is always to wear something I feel really good in. Dressing up every day is essential to me. It makes me feel awake and ready. Accessories are great. You can travel wearing track pants with a cool bag with a nice jacket, and that's all you need. I am dying to get our Grace Lungo, a new iteration of the Grace, coming out next month.

As a designer, what, in your mind, makes a piece worth packing (and wearing) on a trip?

You just have to love how you feel in it or with it. Who cares if you'll wear it every day or once! You always need something really special with you.

Are there staples you believe are a must-have for any trip? If so, what and why?

For the last three months, I have been wearing our Scarf Hobo bag for every trip. I Iove how effortless it is, and it is big enough to hold everything from a water bottle to my laptop.

Beyond packing for the destination, is there anything you suggest wearing while flying? Do you have a travel uniform you swear by?

My makeup bag is a cabinet of curiosities, including anything from lip balm to an amulet made by a shaman. No matter where I travel, I always have rose-water facial spray on me. I buy my rose water at an old Mexico City pharmacy and refill a glass bottle. But if I'm out, I use the Eau de Beauté from Caudalie. All my friends can tell you that I spray my face constantly. Another must-have is a travel-size perfume. I wear El Mono de la Tinta from Fueguia. My friend introduced me to the brand, and I am a forever fan.

I do have a travel uniform. I have been wearing my Manolo Blahnik Birkenstocks, my Adidas track pants in black, and a red Meryll Rogge workwear jacket or a Rick Owens Drkshdw overshirt in pink.

Finally, are there any travel or packing tips you swear by, in general, that can help readers as they get through the holiday season?

Make a list and pack using that list so you don't forget anything important. If you are carrying gifts, don't wrap them. I learned this the hard way when customs agents ripped open my beautifully wrapped presents, leaving a note telling me they opened my luggage…Yeah, I noticed—thanks. I think the ultimate stress-free way to travel this season is to opt for a carry-on only, but I always have toiletries that are over 100 milliliters, so that doesn't work for me.

WHO: Patricia Bonaldi, Creative Director of PatBo

How did you break into the fashion industry? And what drew you to becoming a designer? 

Growing up, my mother taught me how to sew, embroider, and make clothes. That ignited my love of design and creativity. After working various jobs to support myself over the years, I started making couture eveningwear for private clients. This eventually grew into my first business and eponymous brand, Patricia Bonaldi. Later, I started PatBo, the ready-to-wear evolution of the couture business. Perseverance, passion, and hard work led me to where I am today. 

In what ways do you feel the fashion and travel industries inform each other? 

As a designer, I'm incredibly influenced by my travels. All of our prints are hand-drawn and are frequently inspired by nature that I encounter worldwide. We're known for our resort collections, which serve our customer's desire for something new for vacation getaways! We also see [that] the more we travel, the more adventurous we become with our clothes. We can lean out of our day-to-day uniforms when we travel—get more colorful and playful!

Since the fashion industry is global, are there any places you've traveled to that continue to inform how you approach design? 

The way I approach my design is rooted in my home country of Brazil. Uberlândia, my hometown and the location of our atelier, is known as the center of special hand-embroidery skills. I'm committed to continuing the tradition of the craftsmanship our team of talented Brazilian artisans creates daily. But I'm also a big traveler and always take inspiration from new places. This year, it was Greece, Spain, Paris, and London.

One thing we love about your work is that your pieces are so photogenic. Are there any tips you swear by for looking photo ready while traveling? 

Wear color and fun prints when in beautiful, sunny places. It will make you feel and look even happier. Our new Tropicalia print is excellent for even the most all-black, no-print girl—it's cool and has a classic look. A nice pair of sunglasses doesn't hurt either. 

As a designer, what, in your mind, makes a piece worth packing (and wearing) on a trip?

Anything versatile, comfortable, and special—vacation outfits need multiple functions to make it into the suitcase. Comfort and ease are also important when traveling, and it's something I never sacrifice.

Are there staples you believe are a must-have for any trip? If so, what and why?

One of our lovely robes or beach dresses that can be worn to breakfast, to the beach, or dressed up for the night. I swear by these, as they're so versatile while traveling.

I also swear by comfortable shoes—I am not a high-heel girl. I always pack strappy flat sandals and slides for day and night, and Ancient Greek Sandals are some of my favorites. 

I also love my new little Loewe Bracelet bag. It's so easy to pack and carry.

Beyond packing for the destination, is there anything you suggest wearing while flying? Do you have a travel uniform you swear by?

For a long flight, always a matching sweatsuit. A cute matching set so you look as comfortable as you do put-together!

Finally, are there any travel or packing tips you swear by, in general, that can help readers as they get through the holiday season?

If you want to be extra like me, make a detailed list of activities and plans you have each day. From there, I pack what I truly need—e.g., a dress for an event, sneakers for exploring, or swimwear for beach days. And then, I evaluate how much space I have left for some "maybes" and add accordingly. Also, pack things that make you comfortable and happy! The point of traveling is to feel good and get out of your own head.

WHO: Carolina Castiglioni, Founder and Creative Director of Plan C

How did you break into the fashion industry? And what drew you to becoming a designer? 

I've grown up in a family that has been involved in fashion for generations. The Plan C headquarters in Milan used to be my great-grandmother's fur atelier in the '60s. After my studies, it was natural for me to join my parents in the company they founded, Marni. I worked in the family company for 13 years until it was sold in 2016 and had the opportunity for myself to work in different departments, starting from retail (I was an accessory buyer for the Marni stores) and moving to the e-commerce team. The last year, I took the role of creative director of special projects. My approach to designing a collection is similar to that of designing an object. I start thinking about functionality, then material and shape.

In what ways do you feel the fashion and travel industries inform each other? 

Traveling is one of my favorite things to do. I have so many wonderful memories of travels with my parents, and I enjoy traveling with my kids even more now. Any moment they have a school break, we organize a trip. It is where I find most of my inspiration, breathing different cultures, food, and architecture. Seeing the world around you is fundamental, especially if you work in a global business.

Since the fashion industry is global, are there any places you've traveled to that continue to inform how you approach design? 

Above all, Japan. Tokyo is the most inspiring city I have seen. I go there anytime I can and always come back with many new ideas, research, and things I buy in vintage markets, or stores—from objects to garments to books and stationery. They have a unique sense of creativity; I could spend hours watching people walking in the streets. I observe the workers who repair the roads all dressed up in their uniforms in delicate nuances of blue or jade. I find them extremely elegant.

One thing we love about your work is that your pieces are so photogenic. Are there any tips you swear by for looking photo ready while traveling? 

All of those pieces are functional yet still colorful. Colors make an item special and unique. Most of the items are not only one color but how they are combined. Odd matches are my favorite.

As a designer, what, in your mind, makes a piece worth packing (and wearing) on a trip?

I can not travel without (and don't recommend you do either) functional outerwear. You have to pack a jacket that you can casually wear during the day and dress up at night. I also recommend having a canvas shopper bag that carries many things. I don't know what I'd do without my Plan C leather bomber jacket and lacquered bag—they're functional and fun.

Are there staples you believe are a must-have for any trip? If so, what and why?

Together with the bomber jacket and the shopper, another staple item when I travel is Bermuda pants. You can wear them with a T-shirt or a sweater during the day and take an evening take if worn with a shirt and a matching jacket.

I never go out without my Aesop hand cream and Lucas' Papaw Ointment. All these things need a pouch to be carried in when going out during the day with a big shopper. The last thing I need to have while traveling is a tape measurer to take measurements—you never know what you might end up buying!

Beyond packing for the destination, is there anything you suggest wearing while flying? Do you have a travel uniform you swear by?

It's mandatory to wear a sweatshirt, jeans, and sneakers, especially for long-distance travel.

Finally, are there any travel or packing tips you swear by, in general, that can help readers as they get through the holiday season? 

Make sure to pack pieces with various functions that can be worn during the daytime and in the evenings. A couple of staples and sophisticated items to be mixed with all the rest. 

Next: 7 Packing Mistakes Stylish Women Never Make While Traveling