Whenever I fly, I do my best to dress somewhat professionally, even if I’m only heading out to see a friend for a brief visit.
My travel outfits aren’t fancy—a nice top and a skirt (the latter going no longer than the knee so I don’t get pulled over by TSA)—but they do look respectable. Dressing this way not only helps me feel confident and put-together, but it also seems to help others—from security agents to passengers—treat me with respect and kindness.
Given this self-enforced travel clothing regimen, I was intrigued when I came across an article in USA Today suggesting that planes should have a dress code. A major reason for such a proposal, the author argued, is the increased number of altercations erupting on flights in recent years. “Passengers and some psychologists believe that if people dress up before their flight, they might be more respectful—and less likely to lash out,” the author noted….