xena, do NOT apologize for offending someone who is obviously already grumpy. We all channel our pre-trip anxiety in different directions. Mine tends to run towards my wardrobe -- am I taking the right clothes? Too much? Too little? Others are nervous about flying or not knowing the language or how much to tip. My husband frets about his camera gear.

Therese, as usual, has given excellent advice. I like to fly in an outfit that feels as much like pajamas as possible, while still looking presentable and stylish upon arrival in a foreign country. For me, that is a black stretchy fabric -- elastic waist pants and a matching zip-front sweatshirt style jacket, with a cotton T-shirt underneath. Mine happens to be from Chico's, but I see similar stuff everywhere. Shoes that slip on and off easily and are loose because your feet will almost certainly swell during the flight.

As for dining out, my solution is to take a pair of dressy black pants and several different tops for some variety. I find that heavy silk travels quite well, and there are also some lovely dressy silk knit sweaters. I just bought a black cardigan with a bit of feathers around the neck -- put that on with a lycra tank underneath and some good earrings and I think I could dine anywhere.

As someone said above, it's so much a matter of your own style. Look at the things you love to wear at home and pick out 1 or 2 that you think will travel well.

I prefer pants to skirts on a flight because my legs get cold with the air circulation and I can wear cozy socks. To me this is worth the inconvenience of the occasional restroom trip.

Xena,
ignore the aggressive detractors, yes, travel is about more than what to wear, but when Americans, I believe, get such a small amount of annual leave, what hassle is it to get advice on something that will make a day or two of that travel easier, regardless of how apparently trivial? plus there's the issue of how "dressed" or not its appropriate to be in another culture. I am sure there are better audiences for that anger.
ps, re the "free yourself of a bra" advice. E cup. Small body. Not an option

libuse, yeah, me too. For those of us who are well endowed, wearing a bra is a lot more comfortable than not wearing one. No way am I going without and an underwire is all I wear. It's never set off the metal detector yet, but I'll take my chances.

People seem to dress fairly causal in Ireland. Be sure to bring jeans.

Haven't you left yet?