Over the past few years, I've noticed that more and more people in the airport have abandoned the tracksuits and ultra-casual looks of the past and instead are taking their outfit cues from the well-curated looks of A-listers and influencers. Gone are the days of reaching for your tracksuit bottoms and Uggs—these days, airport outfits have become a stylish category unto themselves, with fashionable trendsetters constantly providing fresh inspiration for travel looks that tick the boxes of being both practical and elegant. Now that spring has arrived, the requirements for meeting these conditions become a little more complicated, as travel requires juggling varying temperatures (freezing AC-pumped planes to balmy holiday destinations). So, where to begin?
Fear not, I've done the research for you. After much Instagram scrolling, I've found five looks that I think meet all the requirements. Whether you're headed on a long haul flight to a tropical getaway, or opting for a quick European city break, I'm confident one of these looks will suit the occasion—and ensure you feel particularly stylish while you stroll around the terminal. Easy, effortless, and comprised of pieces you'd happily incorporate into plenty of other looks, these five outfits prove that looking elegant in the airport doesn't actually require that much effort.
SEE THE BEST SPRING AIRPORT OUTFITS
1. Wide-Leg Trousers + Cropped Jacket + Birkenstocks
Style Notes: From my research, I've determined that one of the best ways to look sophisticated in the airport is to work with a colour story that's a little more interesting than tones of black and grey. I love the muted, earthy tones of Francesca's outfit—and the fact it's comprised of individual pieces you could certainly make great use of in your final destination.
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This burned orange colour is ideal for all seasons.
The loose fit is a great option for travel.
A light jacket is a spring travelling essential.
A forever favourite—and so easy to slip off at security.
A final touch that really elevates the whole ensemble.
2. Leggings + Boat Shoes + Long Coat
Style Notes: Yes, leggings really can be styled in an elegant way. Arguably the most comfortable travelling pant option, leggings are an airport go-to. Add a flowing coat and switch the trainers for a preppy boat shoe and you've got an effortlessly sophisticated look.
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Whatever the season, a jumper is a flying essential when you're dealing with airplane AC.
My go-to leggings.
Trust me, boat shoes are making a comeback this year.
This coat would instantly make any look appear 1000x more elegant.
Such a sophisticated carry-on.
3. T-Shirt + Jumper + Jeans + Colourful Socks + Loafers
Style Notes: Spring airport outfits are the ideal scenario to stretch your layering muscle, as you'll need to deal with a multitude of climates during your trip. Bring a touch of fun to your jeans and jumper dressing by following Aimee's example and opting for a colourful sock—in the very on-trend burgundy hue—to pair with your glossy loafers.
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The ultimate base layer.
A slouchy fit jumper is a brilliant option for travel looks.
This style is my personal favourite pair of jeans—and they get bonus points for sustainability, too.
Yes, they're an indulgence, but I couldn't resist!
A classic loafer style you'll wear now and love forever.
4. Voluminous Skirt + Cardigan + Trainers
Style Notes: If you're headed on a European city break where you plan on jumping straight from the plane and into a day of activities, this look is for you. The loose fit of the skirt and the cosiness of the cardigan make it ideal for travel, but together the look is slick enough to make you confident enough to wear for a day of exploring.
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Cosy enough for travel, light enough for all-day wear.
A cardigan always manages to make an outfit appear that much more elevated.
I predict voluminous white skirts will be making a comeback this season...
Adding a stack of necklaces instantly makes an airport look appear that much more chic.
Use your trainers to inject a jolt of colour into your airport look.
5. Barn Jacket + Jeans + Baseball Cap + Trainers
Style Notes: The barn jacket has become the must-have outerwear of the season, and thanks to its combination of style kudos and functional design, it's a brilliant option for travel. Follow Olivia's example and throw over a simple jeans and t-shirt look.
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Every wardrobe needs the perfect white tee.
If you're going to wear jeans on a plane, opt for a wide-leg cut.
Yes, please.
These Loewe trainers complement the barn jacket perfectly.
A baseball cap really gives the off-duty celebrity vibes.
