The Intertwined World of Fashion and Travel
Arguably, no two industries share longer borders than fashion and travel. Both evoke images of freedom, fantasy, discovery, adventure, creativity, romance, and escape. Moreover, they have found welcoming audiences after a year and more of lockdown.
Inspiration from Travel
When design duo Mark Badgley and James Mischka sought inspiration for their current campaign, they turned to travel. They imagined a private jet and a striking female model boarding with a revolving wardrobe in tow, featuring everything from a sculptured suit emblazoned with tropical flowers to a sequin cobalt “lounging” ensemble and—for a dramatic exit—a silky jumpsuit in burnt orange complemented by a mega-floppy sun hat.
“Fashion and travel are almost one and the same,” says Badgley. “The concept here was a celebration of travel and that our woman was ready for a taste of freedom,” adds Mischka. “Travel has widened our horizons as designers. We’re inspired by places we’ve traveled to, like Capri and Mexico, as well as places we aspire to explore, such as Sardinia, Montenegro, and Greece.”
Additionally, designer Michael Kors has integrated ultra-luxe travel wear and imagery into many of his campaigns. This season, he reflected on Diana Vreeland’s belief that “the eye has to travel.” Kors explains, “We may not be able to journey to new destinations, but we must find alternative ways to change our perspective and envision different possibilities.” His current campaign takes place in New York, showcasing the city through the eyes of supermodel Bella Hadid.
How Louis Vuitton Became Synonymous With Luxury Travel
Resort Wear: A Key Fashion Player
So integral is travel to the fashion industry that there exists a distinct season devoted to it. Each year, amid presentations of fall-winter and spring-summer collections, a category titled “resort,” “cruise,” or “holiday” emerges, encompassing clothing from bikinis to ski jackets. This allows consumers to purchase attire suitable for climates different from their own. During the dead of a Minnesota winter, a woman might find a diaphanous beach cover-up for her trip to Tulum. Conversely, a person from Florida can opt for a chunky knit sweater for après ski in Aspen. This category is primarily offered by higher-end brands such as Chanel, Oscar de la Renta, Ralph Lauren, Saint Laurent, and Michael Kors. While traditionally aimed at women, brands like Louis Vuitton, Salvatore Ferragamo, and Moschino have also catered to men. “The resort season is usually my favorite for apparel. It encapsulates a relaxed and joyful time that’s not about business or charity events,” expresses Fern Mallis, founder of New York Fashion Week.
From Utilitarian to Glamorous—And Back Again
“Historically, travel was arduous, often leading individuals to wear more practical clothing,” states Dr. Valerie Steele, director and chief curator of The Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology. “Even with significant advancements like the railroad, which was much faster than stagecoaches, travel was often a dirty affair. People wore dusters and veils to protect their clothing. Automobiles brought a need for dressing up to avoid dirt and splashes while traveling at the then-incredible pace of 20 miles per hour.” In those early days, a “car coat” was made from heavy fur, and driving ensembles included goggles and visors.
In the 1930s and ’40s, “travel began to become cleaner and more luxurious, prompting individuals to dress up for the prestige associated with it,” Steele remarks. “First-class travel meant comfortable seating and dining off china, which naturally led to wearing elegant suits or dresses.”
Jetsetters Elevate Style Quotient
By the mid-20th century, being well-traveled and affluent became synonymous, according to Steele. “Jetsetters traveled to Paris or exotic locations like Bombay, often using luxurious means of transportation such as the Orient Express. It was the epitome of glamour, and travelers dressed accordingly with ample luggage—there were no weight restrictions at that time.” Throughout the 1970s, as air travel became more affordable and accessible, individuals began to see flying as an exciting adventure. Steele notes, “It wasn’t about wealth but about the experience of pursuing fabulous adventures—people danced, smoked, drank, and flirted in the aisles, all while dressed to impress.”
Today, Steele observes, travelers often lean towards utilitarian clothing for the journey. “The destination is now where the luxury lies. Comfort has become paramount as travel logistics have complicated matters with various restrictions.” Steele herself prefers to shop at her destination, noting, “I can’t be the only one who enjoys picking up items once I arrive. Whether skiing in Mustique or swimming in Sun Valley, there are options everywhere.”
Go in Style
Despite minimal guidelines for appropriate airport attire—essentially, no shirt, no shoes, no service—there is room for improvement. Celebrity stylist Micaela Erlanger, who has styled luminaries such as Lupita Nyong’o and Meryl Streep, advocates for polished travel looks that remain comfortable. “I believe travel serves as an extension of your lifestyle,” Erlanger remarks. “Having a sophisticated, pulled-together appearance is crucial.” She advises against “spandex and flip flops at the airport,” opting instead for a travel “uniform” consisting of comfortable jeans, a men’s button-down shirt, and chic flats, paired with a designer tote and an Away bag.
Erlanger emphasizes that practical yet stylish options are available. “This year has seen a significant focus on elevated loungewear, influenced by the Zoom culture—there’s a natural connection between this trend and travel attire.” She often helps her clients pack while maintaining a focus on aesthetics. Despite the need for style, she insists, “You’ll never see one of them in high heels at the airport. Practicality remains essential.” She equips them with “a chic yet functional airport bag, oversized sunglasses, and a shawl that doubles as a shield.” Her latest accessory recommendation? “A stylish passport case to keep vaccine documentation handy.”
A Return to Glamour… Perhaps
In conclusion, Erlanger envisions a future where glamour returns to travel. “When I think of dressing up for travel, I reminisce about the turn of the 20th century. It signifies a pivotal moment—a sort of renaissance—and I genuinely believe that glamour is on its way back.”
Program Credits
Editorial Lead: Nina Ruggiero
Contributors: Anne Bratskeir, Madeline Diamond, Stefanie Waldek, Kristen Shirley, and Liz Cantrell
Creative/Art Direction: Jenna Brillhart
Illustration and Graphic Design: Emily Lundin, Jesse Blanner
Photo Editor: Alessandra Amodio
Production: Courtney Dennis
