Travel Style Through the Decades

From Jet-Set to Carry-On Smart: How Travel Style Evolved (and Why Aviator Builds for Today)

Travel style has always mirrored how we move through the world. When flying was rare and glamorous, we dressed to match. As air travel democratized, comfort took over—sometimes at the expense of polish and practicality. Today’s best travel wardrobe blends style, comfort, and function so you can pack less, wear more, and feel confident from gate to dinner reservation. Here’s how we got here—and how Aviator designs for where we’re going.

1950s–1960s: The Golden Era—Dress to Impress

📸: God Save the Points

Commercial air travel was a luxury and passengers showed up like they were headed to a premiere.

• Men: tailored suits, polished shoes, slim ties.

• Women: structured dresses, tasteful accessories, immaculate hair.

• Vibe: presentation over comfort; coordinated luggage and sharp sunglasses completed the look.

This era established the idea that travel outfits could signal aspiration and intent. The trade-off: stiff fabrics and zero comfort.

1980s–1990s: The Jet-Setter Aesthetic

📸: Dennis Stone Shutterstock

As routes expanded and international trips became status symbols, the look evolved from boardroom formal to fashion-forward “I’m going somewhere”.

• Think clean lines, statement outerwear, designer denim, and logo luggage.

• You still dressed up, but the goal was trend rather than tradition.

• Comfort began to matter more, yet function (pockets, wrinkle-resistance) was not part of the conversation.

1990s–2000s: Comfort Rules (Function… Not So Much)

Security changes, long layovers, and the rise of "athleisure" pushed wardrobes toward sweats, tracksuits, tees, and hoodies (not like Aviator's). We are talking zero function back then.  

• The unspoken plan: be comfortable on the plane and change on arrival.

• Fabrics got softer, fits got looser, but travel function lagged such as no secure storage, heavy cottons, and outfits that looked “in-transit” rather than “arrival-ready.”

The Last Decade: Casual, Elevated, and (Finally) Functional

In recent years, travelers started asking for both: comfort that looks put-together and clothes that work beyond the airport. Smart packing became a skill. The new essentials:

• Performance fabrics that breathe, regulate temperature, resist wrinkles, and dry quickly.

• Secure storage (zippers and hidden pockets) to move confidently through crowded stations and city streets. Pickpocketing is real in major cities all over the world. 

• Versatile silhouettes that look right on the plane and at dinner.

Where Aviator Fits In

At Aviator, we build for this modern moment. This means staple styles with comfort, and real travel function in every piece.

• Jeans with secure pockets: Hidden zipper pockets keep passports, cards, and phones safe from pickpockets without adding bulk. Deep front pockets reduce the “stuff bulge.”

• Merino tees & hoodies: Merino wool is naturally odor-resistant, breathable, temperature-regulating, and quick-drying. You can wear merino on repeat and still feel fresh.

• Travel pants with comfort stretch: Lightweight, wrinkle-resistant, and ready for long hauls or long walks. Pants and jeans that are casual but the clean design makes them appropiate

• Made in Los Angeles: Close to our factory means tighter quality control, faster problem-solving, and craftsmanship you can feel.

The Aviator Travel Uniform (simple, packable, arrival-ready)

1. Top: Merino tee or hoodie (pack two, wear on repeat).

2. Bottom: Jeans or pants with hidden zips (security + comfort).

3. Layer: Lightweight jacket or overshirt (sharp silhouette, easy to stow).

4. Accessories: Hands free and let your pockets do the heavy lifting.

Why This Matters Now

Modern travel is a sprint with ride-shares, security, and tight connections. It's also a marathon with jet lag, variable weather, last-minute plans etc... Your clothes should work as hard as your itinerary and keep you comfortable in transit and confident on arrival, without overpacking.

Making it Happen in Los Angeles

If you’re in Los Angeles, visit the Aviator Lounge & Shop in DTLA for a private fitting. Try the full collection, see the hidden pockets in action, and dial in your perfect travel kit. We’re open Monday–Friday, 10am–5pm, by appointment

Complimentary valet and on-site tailoring included. Jet will be here too! 

SHOP MEN'S

SHOP WOMEN'S