I've Worn These Comfy ‘Jeans' on Every Flight This Summer—and No One's Noticed They're Sweatpants

Travel + Leisure

18-07-2025

Jeans have always been a necessary evil in my wardrobe—reliable, yes, but rarely something I want to travel in. That changed when I discovered the Rag & Bone Miramar line. I already live in the dark-wash Sofie pair all-year long (yes, the 'jeans' that fooled my friends, coworkers, and even my mom), so when I spotted a light-wash option, the Miramar Wide-leg Pants in the shade Valentina, I didn't hesitate because I needed a summer-friendly version of my go-to travel pants, and this latest addition to my wardrobe more than delivered.
These aren't your average sweatpants. Rag & Bone's patented Miramar technique uses digital printing to create a wildly convincing denim illusion on ultra-soft cotton terry fabric. The light-blue wash I chose looks like a broken-in pair of vintage jeans, complete with printed belt loops, fly, and even realistic fading and 'creases.' But flip them inside out—or just wear them for a few minutes—and the secret is out: they're as soft and stretchy as loungewear. $198 at Nordstrom $198 at Rag-bone.com
Despite the eye-deceiving waistband and zipper (both of which are completely flat and digitally printed), the pants still have functional side pockets that make them feel practical for everyday wear. I wore them to and from a flight from LaGuardia to Palm Beach International, and they felt just as breathable as my favorite joggers but looked like crisp summer denim. There was no waistband digging in mid-flight, no stiff seams, and no need to change after landing.
What truly sold me on this pair for summer was the fabric weight. The cotton terry is lightweight and breathable, so I didn't overheat while running around the airport or sitting in the stuffy plane seat. They're also not too thin that they feel flimsy. I've also worn them with a light cardigan on cooler evenings and could easily transition them into fall with a trench or blazer layered on top. $198 at Nordstrom $198 at Rag-bone.com
As for styling, they work with everything. I've paired them with white sneakers and a T-shirt for a flight, and I've also dressed them up with a tucked-in linen button-down and espadrilles for dinner alfresco. Plus, if you don't want to wear them on the flight back, the soft structure makes them perfect for packing—they roll up easily and don't wrinkle like traditional denim can.
If my first dark-wash Miramar pants are the cold-weather MVPs of my travel wardrobe, this lighter pair is the summer star. Between the wear-everywhere look of jeans and the cloudlike comfort of sweats, these pants are the ultimate warm-weather travel companion—and honestly, a year-round staple. I'll be wearing them straight through the seasons.
These sweatpant jeans are on the pricier side at $225, but considering how often I reach for them—on planes, at brunch, running errands—they've more than earned their spot in my suitcase and closet. If you're looking for the ease of loungewear with the style of lived-in denim, this is your travel outfit upgrade. Although if you're looking for something a little more budget-friendly, keep scrolling for similar sweatpant jean styles from Gap, Amazon, and more, starting at $32.
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