Wardrobe Considerations for Your Airport Style
Flying is usually an exciting experience, with many great opportunities for outfit combinations. But, as a traveler, you’ll need to dress accordingly. What you wear at the airport and onboard can sometimes directly impact your comfort level while traveling.
Airport Style | Why Airport Outfits Matter
There are a few key reasons why your airport outfit matters. First, you want to be comfortable. You will sit on a plane or in a car for a long time, so choose clothes that won’t irritate your skin or make you too hot or cold. Second, you want to look good. First impressions matter; you never know who you will run into at the airport. Finally, always be prepared for anything. You never know when your flight will be delayed or canceled, or you’ll have to go through security again. So make sure you have everything you need in your carry-on bag and that your outfit is something you can quickly move in.
Airport Style | What to Wear on a Short Flight
If you’re taking a short flight, you can get away with wearing more comfortable, casual clothes. But it’s worth the effort to dress up and ensure you look good in all your travel photos! A nice pair of jeans or shorts, a t-shirt or blouse, socks for women, and a sweater or light jacket will be comfortable and stylish. You can also add a scarf or hat to keep warm on the plane. Make sure your shoes are easy to take off and put back on so you can go through security quickly (more on later).
What to Wear on a Long Flight
Whether you’re flying for business or pleasure, long flights can tax your body and your wardrobe. To make sure you’re comfortable and stylish on your next long flight, here are a few style considerations to keep in mind:
- Comfort is key: Choose loose and breathable clothing to avoid feeling uncomfortable or overheated during the flight. Natural fibers like linen and cotton are good choices.
- Consider the climate: If you’re flying to a destination with a different environment than where you’re departing from, make sure to dress accordingly. You don’t want to be cold or too hot when you land!
- Stick to basics: A simple, classic outfit will always look chic no matter what the setting is. Opt for well-fitting trousers or jeans, a button-down shirt or sweater, and closed-toe shoes. Add a scarf or jacket if you need an extra layer.
- Accessorize wisely: Accessories can help add personality to your outfit, but be careful not to overdo it. Keep it simple with just a few pieces that complement your overall look.
What Should You Not Wear at the Airport?
While there aren’t any restrictions, you might want to avoid wearing anything that will make you stand out or look too flashy at the airport. Items like;
- Loud or bright colors
- Fancy jewelry
- High heels
- Skimpy clothing
Wearing any of these items may make you a target for thieves or pickpockets, so it’s best to stick to more subdued and comfortable clothing when traveling.
How to Dress for Airport Security
Dressing for airport security can be a bit of a balancing act. On the one hand, you want to be comfortable since you’ll likely spend a lot of time sitting in planes and airports. On the other hand, you want to ensure you’re not wearing anything that will slow you down when going through security. Here are a few tips to help you dress for airport security:
- Wear slip-on shoes: Shoes with laces or buckles can take extra time to take off and put on, so opt for slip-on instead.
- Avoid wearing heavy jewelry: Not only can heavy jewelry set off metal detectors, but it can also slow down the security process.
- Leave your belts at home: Belts can also set off metal detectors and add an extra step to the security process.
- Wear layers: Layers are great for travel because you can easily remove layers if necessary. You can also opt to carry a jacket or shawl on your arm and put it on when you have already boarded the plane.
- Choose clothing without metal: Metal is one of the most common things that will set off a metal detector, so avoid clothing with buttons or zippers made of metal.
- Always use a purse that zips closed rather than one that remains open: Aside from being a security risk, purses that hang open may spill as they travel through x-ray machines and metal detectors—creating mess and preventing lines from moving along quickly.
- Stick to plastic for hair accessories: Metal combs and bobby pins can set off metal detectors, bogging down security checks.
Dressing for flights doesn’t have to be complicated, but you want to optimize your outfit for comfort and style. Consider these tips to look your best while having a worry-free, comfortable flight.
