What makes the perfect airport outfit?
Comfort comes first; no one wants to sit on a flight in clothes that are restrictive. The second factor is a look that accommodates varying changes in temperature. Ideally, you’ll be wearing pieces that don’t crease easily.
These are the practicalities, but most of us also want to look polished when we arrive at our destination. Going on holiday is special, and – while few of us want to wear a ballgown on our next flight – there are options that straddle both logistical ease and style. A good outfit puts a pep in our step, and makes the journey feel more exciting, even if we’re flying economy. It’s a statement of intent, a way of putting your best foot forward for the holiday you want.
Tracksuit bottoms have become a much-relied on pillar when it comes to travel outfits because they offer a great blend of both function and sartorial appeal, especially when elevated with something luxe like a cashmere jumper, or a merino wool hoodie. There is a way of doing both long and short-haul without them though, should you be searching for alternatives. Tracksuits, after all, don’t tend to be useful on holiday beyond the flight. Here, we’ve curated five outfits that combine utility and style.
LOOK 1: Wide leg trousers + cashmere jumper + slides
I love Commando for its supremely soft separates, and I’ve been wearing its wide-leg trousers on every flight since I bought them two years ago. That exact style is still in stock, but Uniqlo does similar options. Wear them with a cashmere jumper, socks and slides for a casual, yet pulled-together look.
LOOK 2: T-shirt dress + denim jacket + chunky sandal
Citizen Femme’s Style Director Rachel Story swears by this formula. The T-shirt or vest dress is useful to have in your holiday wardrobe, as is the denim jacket. A chunky sandal offsets the look and won’t set off the alarms when you go through customs in the way a boot might.
LOOK 3: Stretch jeans + cardigan + ballet pumps
Jeans get a bad rep when it comes to travelling, but the right pair, if made of a stretch denim, can work really well. They’re also a useful, versatile addition for city breaks; 7 For Mankind’s cropped Lotta wide-leg are not only super soft, but the shorter hemline is great for warm spring days. A cardigan will ensure you’re cosy despite the on-flight AC, and a cushioned ballet pump like these from Allbirds (I can personally testify to their comfort), offers easy elegance.
LOOK 4: PJ trousers + oversized stripe shirt + sandals
A loose-fitting trouser that you can wear on holiday with a silk vest is a great travel outfit foundation. Choose a style with an elasticated waistband to ensure you’re comfortable sitting down, and consider fabrics that aren’t predisposed to creasing, like a wrinkle-free cotton or silk. I’m a big fan of wearing a shirt on planes; they’re super comfortable for long journeys and double up as a beach coverup when you arrive at your destination.
LOOK 5: Trench coat + oversized shirt + leggings
One for a city break destination, a trench coat worn with an oversized shirt and leggings delivers holiday mileage and travel comfort. The shirt elevates the leggings and the trench brings timeless polish. Just add trainers to finish it off.
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Any Questions or Tips to add?