Looking Elegant at the Airport Is Possible—5 Outfits Perfect for Travelling in Spring

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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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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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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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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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.