How To Look Good When You Trave

For pointers on being an elegant traveler like Laura Mercier, we asked experts for a few flight-friendly tips just in time for the long weekend.

HAIR
Moulay Yacoubi, stylist at the Pierre Michel Salon in New York City, says:

Prepare. "At the beginning of your flight, separate your hair into three sections—one in back and one on each side of your head—and create three loose braids. When you land, just take them out and you’ll have a great textured look.”

De-frizz. "If you have curly hair that frizzes up after rubbing against the headrest, just go in the bathroom and dampen it with a little water. This will re-activate any products you put in your hair at home, and you’ll be able to re-style with your fingers."

Fight oil. "Bring along some baby powder or dry shampoo. That way, if your hair gets greasy, you can just comb a little through."

CLOTHES
Estee Stanley, a stylist who has worked with Amy Adams and Penelope Cruz, says:

Dress right the first time. "Don't change in the airplane bathroom right before landing—if you're going directly to a meeting or an event after deboarding, then maybe. But otherwise, you're just going to look vain."

Keep it low-key. "Cream or black pants with a t-shirt, like one by The Row, or a loose short-sleeve sweater, like one by Stella McCartney, will be comfy, yet stylish."

Avoid certain fabrics. "Stay away from linens. They'll always make you look sloppy after a flight. Same goes for polyester silks."