I’ll never forget the first time I traveled in business class. I was so excited to lounge in a big comfy seat and get treated like royalty.
I wanted to get dressed similar to one of these outfits:
But then I looked down at my ripped jeans and old sweatshirt and realized I looked like a total slob compared to all the suited up professionals around me.
Whoops!
Now I always make sure I’m dressed to impress whenever I fly business class.
Looking polished and put together ensures you feel confident and comfortable during your flight.
Fun fact: Over 75% of business class travelers say they dress up specifically for their flight.
Business Class Flight Style Gallery
1. Smart Casual
Leave the sweats and flip flops at home.
Go for dark jeans, trousers, a button-down or blouse, and loafers or boots.
You’ll look classy without being too formal.
For example, I’ll often wear tailored black trousers with a silky camisole and blazer on top.
Pair it with some cute loafers and small hoop earrings for an effortlessly chic business casual vibe.
It’s comfortable enough for a long flight but still looks elegant and put together.
2. Add a Blazer or Cardigan
Bring a lightweight blazer or cardigan to pull your outfit together.
It makes you look polished.
Plus, planes can get chilly!
I always pack a fitted blazer in a neutral color like black, gray, tan, or white.
It instantly elevates any outfit, whether I pair it with jeans, trousers, a dress, or skirt.
A tailored blazer makes me look sophisticated and stylish without much effort.
Pro tip: Drape it over your seat once you’re settled in so it’s handy in case you get cold during the flight.
3. Skip Revealing Necklines
Avoid low-cut or see-through tops.
You’ll be sitting near colleagues or potential clients so keep it professional.
As much as I love a plunging neckline for a night out, it’s not suited for business class.
Instead, I’ll opt for a crew neck or subtle v-neck blouse.
Look for tops in silky materials or lightweight knits to stay comfortable in flight.
Pro tip: Wrap a silk scarf loosely around your neck to add coverage and style if your top is slightly more revealing.
4. Pack Tall Boots
Bring knee-high boots if you’ll be walking through the airport.
They dress up leggings or trousers perfectly.
I love wearing over-the-knee boots when traveling.
Paired with leggings or a slim ankle pant, they make my legs look a mile long.
I get compliments whenever I strut through the airport in sleek black boots with a few inches of heel.
For optimal comfort, look for a block heel rather than stilettos.
5. Accessorize
Add a nice watch, small earrings, and a necklace to add a touch of sophistication.
I always accessorize my travel outfits with delicate gold jewelry.
A simple pair of hoops, sparkly studs, or a pendant necklace polishes any look.
An elegant watch like a Cartier Tank is a classic travel accessory too.
It pulls together my business class attire so I look refined and intentional with my look.
6. Keep Makeup Simple
Opt for tinted moisturizer, groomed brows, mascara, and a neutral lip.
You’ll look polished but not overdone.
I stick to a natural, glowy makeup look when flying business class.
After applying moisturizer, I’ll sweep on a mineral SPF foundation to even out my skin.
Then I’ll fill and brush up my brows, swipe on some bronzer, add a few coats of mascara, and finish with a rosy lip balm.
It enhances my features without looking like I tried too hard.
7. Style Your Hair
Blow it out smooth or do soft curls or waves.
It shows you made an effort.
I always wash and style my hair before a big business class trip.
My go-to is loose beach waves.
They look polished but not overly done, perfect for traveling in style.
I’ll spritz my hair with texturizing spray once curled to keep it looking chic even after a long flight.
8. Moisturize Skin
Hydrate skin thoroughly before and during the flight.
The air dries you out fast.
I apply a thick moisturizer like La Mer all over my face and neck area before boarding.
Then once I’m settled in my business class seat, I’ll layer on serum, face oil, eye cream, and lip balm too.
It keeps my skin from getting dry and dull on the plane.
I’ll reapply hydrating products a few times throughout the flight as needed.
9. Pack Extras
Bring makeup, deodorant, and breath mints to freshen up on board.
I always come prepared with a variety of products to reapply during the flight.
Once I’m settled into my big cushy seat, I’ll touch up my makeup.
I’ll apply more moisturizer, mist a hydrating spray, reapply lipstick, and blend more concealer as needed.
It keeps me looking refreshed even after a 10-hour flight.
I also keep gum, mints, deodorant, and perfume in my carry on to reapply mid-flight.
10. Invest in Quality Basics
Splurge on well-made trousers, blouses, loafers, etc.
The quality shows.
Instead of fast fashion, I invest in timeless, well-tailored basics to travel in.
A crisp white button down, well-fitting black ankle pants, a soft cashmere sweater, and genuine leather loafers will never go out of style.
The luxury materials and perfect fit help me look instantly elegant for business class.
Classic pieces in neutral colors are so versatile and can be re-worn endlessly.
11. Pick Dark Denim
Dark wash jeans look more polished than distressed or light washes.
If I plan to wear jeans on a flight, I’ll go for a dark rinse pair without any fading, holes, or distressing.
They look chic and expensive paired with heels and a blazer.
I’ll tuck in an emerald green silky camisole to make dark jeans work for business class.
Add gold jewelry, styled hair, and beige suede booties to pull it all together seamlessly.
12. Add a Scarf
Drape a colorful silk scarf around your neck to add flair.
I love accessorizing business class outfits with a luxe silk scarf.
Tied loosely around your neck, it makes even the simplest outfit look deliberated and stylish.
Go for a bright, vibrant hue like emerald green, sapphire blue, or fuchsia pink.
The pop of color against a black or white top looks so elegant.
Cashmere and silk scarves are ideal—the soft, luxurious texture screams first class.
13. Limit Logos
Avoid clothes with huge logos or slogans.
Keep it classy.
Leave the graphic tees and logomania sweatshirts at home if you’re jet-setting in business class.
They look out of place next to all the tailored suits and business attire.
Instead, opt for quality materials and subtle design details rather than flashy logos.
Luxury fabrics like Italian wool, cashmere, silk, and buttery leathers ooze elegance.
14. Get a Manicure
Freshly groomed nails pull your whole look together.
I’ll get a neutral manicure a day or two before flying business class.
A pale beige, pale pink, or French manicure makes your hands look instantly refined.
It’s a subtle detail that shows you paid attention to your whole look.
I also apply thick hand cream and push back cuticles to finish off the crisp, polished effect.
15. Spritz on Fragrance
A light, floral, or citrus scent adds a touch of luxury.
A spritz of perfume completes my first class ensemble.
I look for unique fragrances with notes like bergamot, jasmine, neroli, lavender, or light musks.
The intoxicating but not overpowering scents smell expensive and feminine.
Apply just a touch to your wrists, behind your ears, and at your pulse points.
16. Pack Comfy Shoes
Pack slippers or sandals to change into during the long flight.
While I’ll wear boots or loafers for walking through the airport, I’ll pack cozy shoes for onboard.
After take-off, I immediately change into my slippers or sandals to maximize comfort.
Shearling lined slippers, classic Ugg boots, or buttery leather sandals all work well.
Don’t forget spare socks too in case your feet get chilly!
17. Stay Cozy
Bring a pashmina or blanket in case you get chilly in the plane.
Planes can blast the AC and temperatures fluctuate, so overprepare.
I’ll pack a cashmere travel wrap or light blanket in my carry on bag.
As soon as I get settled into my business class pod, I’ll cozy up in it to stay warm.
A travel pillow, eye mask, and earplugs help me snooze in comfort too.
18. Be Confident
No matter what you wear, walk into business class like you belong there.
Your confidence completes any outfit!
Even if I’m wearing just jeans and a tee, I’ll walk down the business class aisle like I own the place.
Keep your head high, shoulders back, make eye contact, and smile.
Your poise is more important than your outfit in making a great first impression.
Act like you fly first class regularly and no one will question if you belong there or not.
19. Choose Quality Luggage
Invest in a high-end, lightweight carry-on suitcase and weekender bag.
Luxury luggage like Rimowa or Tumi conveys that you’re a frequent flyer.
Opt for a hardside carry-on with a timeless design in black, navy or gray.
Pair it with a stylish leather weekender as your personal item.
Quality luggage holds up better and looks impeccably chic as you jet set.
20. Pack Smart Layers
Bring versatile items like cardigans, blazers, and scarves to adjust your look.
Layers allow you to respond to the variable cabin temperatures.
A lightweight cashmere cardigan provides warmth without bulk.
Blazers add polish when needed or can dress down jeans.
Silky scarves double as neck coverings or sarong-style wraps.
21. Stay wrinkle-free
Choose fabrics like jersey, knits, and synthetics that resist wrinkles.
Or freshly steam or press clothing before packing.
Upon landing, hang delicate items in the lavatory while freshening up.
The steam releases wrinkles so you’ll look crisp on arrival.
22. Pack Multi-tasking Makeup
Items like tinted moisturizer, lip/cheek stains, etc. streamline your routine.
Consolidate products to save space and time getting ready inflight.
Look for makeup that layers beautifully and serves multiple purposes.
A nude/pink lip and cheek cream blends easily with fingertips.
CC creams even skin tone while providing SPF protection.
23. Pre-plan Outfits
Lay out complete looks including accessories the night before.
You won’t forget something or run out of time getting ready.
Pick items that transition seamlessly from plane to your destination.
Mix and match pieces to create multiple outfit options.
You’ll stay polished and settled-in on arrival.
24. Choose a Color Palette
Pack clothes in coordinated neutral, metallic, or jewel tones.
Easily mix and match items while avoiding clashing colors.
Navy blue, gray, black, and white always look elegant.
Or create ensembles in shades of emerald, sapphire, and violet.
Metallics like gold, rose gold, and silver exude luxury too.
25. Simplify Your Routine
Travel sizes, multi-use products, and makeup wipes simplify inflight freshening up.
Keep your skincare regimen streamlined yet effective.
Cleansing balms remove makeup while moisturizing skin.
Tinted lip balms provide care plus a pop of color.
Dry shampoo and deodorant revive hair and refreshness between flights.
26. The Power Suit
Make a bold first impression by wearing a tailored suit.
Opt for a structured blazer with strong shoulders paired with matching trousers.
Choose a fine fabric like wool crepe, tropical wool, or stretch twill.
Monochromatic navy, black, or gray suits project confidence and authority.
Pair with a colorful camisole or silky shell underneath for a pop of interest.
I love wearing a fiery red camisole under a navy suit to show a glimpse of personality.
Or try a vibrant purple shell peeking out from a gray blazer.
Add polished leather oxfords, classic pumps, or sleek tall boots.
I’ll wear nude pointy toe pumps or thigh-high black leather boots with my power suit.
Finish with a structured tote bag and oversized sunglasses for gravitas.
I carry a black leather tote big enough for my laptop and other essentials.
And I’ll rock big Jackie O-style sunglasses to top off the powerful ensemble.
A suit says you mean business and makes a striking entrance.
27. The Modern Jumpsuit
Stand out from the crowd in a chic jumpsuit.
Look for tailored wide leg styles in fabrics like crepe, silk, or linen.
Sophisticated hues like cobalt blue, emerald green and burgundy work beautifully.
I love a cobalt blue linen jumpsuit for summer travel.
And a burgundy crepe style makes a rich color statement for winter.
Add interest with a cinched waist, off-the-shoulder or cold shoulder necklines.
A keyhole cutout back or exposed zipper details add modern flair too.
Drape a long pendant necklace over the neckline to complement the look.
I’ll layer a few delicate gold necklaces together for an elegant touch.
Wear with platform sandals and carry a woven leather clutch.
I’m a sucker for showing off a bright pedicure in strappy metallic heels.
A jumpsuit is comfortable yet pulled-together for business class.
28. The Minimalist Dress
A classic sheath dress epitomizes understated chic.
Look for clean lines in midweight fabrics like jersey, scuba or ponte knit.
Versatile black, navy or beige are perfect neutral options.
I love an LBD (little black dress) for effortless polish.
Play with interesting necklines or subtle side slits for flair.
A mock neck and back slit make a conservative sheath feel modern and sexy.
Add a belt to cinch your waist.
A skinny patent belt amps up the sophistication.
Complete the look with classic pumps and a chain strap bag.
I’ll finish it off with black suede ankle strap heels and a quilted Chanel bag.
Minimal jewelry keeps the look refined and elegant.
29. The Bold Maxi Skirt
Make a statement in a vivid floor-skimming maxi skirt.
Try exotic prints, bold colors and luxe fabrics like silk or chiffon.
I love pairing a vibrant burnt orange chiffon maxi skirt with a black turtleneck.
Balance the volume with a fitted turtleneck or slim tank tucked in.
Finish with strappy heels, dangly earrings and an embroidered clutch.
I’ll wear nude barely-there sandals and colorful tassel earrings for a boho vibe.
A long pendant necklace complements the look.
Go monochromatic in the same color family for drama.
An emerald maxi skirt with emerald jewelry is a bold yet elegant choice.
A bold maxi skirt is feminine and sensational.
30. The Edgy Jumpsuit
Show your rebellious side in a leather or faux leather jumpsuit.
Look for moto-inspired details like quilting, zippers and buckles.
I love the look of a zip-front jumpsuit with zippered ankle details.
Pair it with a silky camisole for a touch of contrast and femininity.
I’ll layer a lacy black cami under a forest green leather jumpsuit.
Add rock n’ roll edge with black ankle boots or strappy heels.
Pointy-toe stiletto booties balance the jumpsuit’s menswear vibe.
Sling a bold chain strap bag across your body.
A mix of metals like rose gold, silver, and gold toughens up the look.
Finish with dark nail polish and a red lip for flair.
A leather jumpsuit is daring and directional for business class.
