3 min readBeing at the airport is arguably one of the most dreaded places you can go. If the idea of being anywhere near the TSA security line makes you feel a tad grumpy, then being comfy is a huge priority. As tempting as it is to step off a flight in a killer dress and heels, they’re not exactly the most practical choice if you want to rest comfortably in the air and still move easily from terminal to terminal. Luckily, there are plenty of cute airport outfits that strike the perfect balance between comfort and style.
But before you run off to buy a matching set on Amazon and call it a day, consider what you might already have in your closet. Your favorite Heather Gray fleece hoodie can be dressed up to be the perfect airport-chic look with a few styling tweaks (the ultimate travel hack, if I do say so myself.) Think: dressed up sweats with a simple piece of jewelry, a cool maxi skirt, and even a full-on monochromatic chocolate brown ensemble with layers to keep you toasty even if the cabin temps dip.
The key to nailing a cute and comfy airport outfit is simple: layers that you can lounge in for hours and still look decent in even if your flight gets delayed (le sigh). Whether you’re jetting off for work and heading straight into the office, or landing just in time for drinks, these looks will carry you through the terminal in style, and keep you feeling great along the way. Just don’t forget to grab your overhead luggage!
A Leopard Coat + Cherry Red Track Pants
Not enough room in your carry-on for your big coat? No problem! Work it into your travel day outfit. The trick is to either go all neutrals or lean into the maximalism of it all.
A Graphic Tee + Black Trousers
Steal a page out of fashion icon Victoria Beckham’s style with a cheeky graphic T-shirt and all black accessories. She basically invented the airport-chic look during the early aughts, and this look has stood the test of time.
Corduroy Pants + a Barn Jacket
Barn jackets have been everywhere this year, and they act as the perfect topper for every outfit. If you’re tired of reaching for blue denim jeans, why not switch things up with a relaxed-fitting corduroy pant?
Baggy Jeans + UGG Boots
J.Lo knows the secret to being comfy at the airport is to bring ye old faithful out: UGG boots. If you always get cold on planes, wearing a turtleneck is a no-brainer. Make the whole look feel a little more on trend by pairing your turtleneck with a pair of baggy jeans for a cute and toasty warm ensemble.
Sweatshirt + Mary Janes
Hailey Bieber knows the secret to making your sweats look like an outfit is to pair them with classic, tailored pieces. A coffee colored overcoat instantly adds polish, and the Mary-Jane-and-white-sock combo adds major cool-girl factor.
A Windbreaker + Leggings
Take it from me, being cold on a plane is the worst. Even if you swear you won’t need it, throw on a lightweight layer over your top and leggings. When the A/C starts blasting, you’ll be so glad you did.
Leggings + Chocolate Brown
Sometimes all you really want at the airport are your trusty leggings and sneakers. Make it feel more like a ‘fit by adding in a long chocolate brown coat and tote bag in the same shade.
A Dress Shirt + Loafers
If you have a shorter flight and your plans immediately start after touchdown, you’ll wanna feel put together on the plane. An oversized dress shirt and mini skirt are appropriate, no matter where the day takes you. Plus, you’ll be able to get plenty of walking done comfortably in a good pair of loafers.
A Matching Set
For the ultimate lazy hack, wearing a matching set will always work. Add in a pretty, flat, and structured handbag to dress the look up, and if you’re feeling extra, go for a fully monochromatic look.
A Maxi Skirt + Chunky Sweater
If you’re officially over the idea of slipping into yet another pair of sweatpants, let me introduce you to their chic counterpart: the maxi skirt. It gives off that “I totally put effort into this” vibe while secretly being just as comfy as your favorite sweats.
Belle Bakst is a NYC-based fashion editor and content creator. Her work has been featured in Cosmopolitan, InStyle, Harper’s Bazaar, Brides, and more. When she’s not researching this season’s best shoes, you can find her vlogging a sample sale, or thrifting in Manhattan. Follow @littlefashionstylist on Instagram and TikTok for outfit inspo, vintage jewelry hauls, and the occasional Bergdorf Goodman selfie.
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