I Believe in Dressing Up for the Airport—7 Rules I Live By

Just because you’re flying doesn’t mean you have to dress down. If there were ever a time to put effort into your look, I'd suggest it’s when you travel. Trust me, as a frequent flyer, I have fought the urge to throw on sweats and sneakers on many occasions; however, I truly believe you can be stylish and comfortable flying, even on the long hauls.

Growing up, my family traveled quite a bit, and my parents made us dress up for every plane, train, and automobile excursion because, as they put it, “it’s a sign of respect.” This is one of those lessons I’ve come to understand and carry into my life. Dare I admit it, but, Mom, you were right. Through trial and error, I’ve created a formula that helps me feel and look put together but is also comfortable enough to fly three hours (and even eleven hours).

Denim is a no-go unless stretchy. Shorts? No! Anything ripped, no! What I'm saying yes to: trousers, structured t-shirts, cashmere sweaters, button-downs, trench coats, blazers, cozy socks, and slip-on shoes—think loafers or Chelsea boots. Recently I’ve been rotating flared trousers from Zara, kick flares from High Sport, and any pants from Maria McManus (they are divine). For tops I’m usually wearing my favorite Loewe cropped button-down or my old Tom Ford suit shirt. If I need an extra layer, you can generally find me in a Toteme cashmere sweater and an A.W.A.K.E Mode trench coat.

Something else to keep in mind: socks. These are a game-changer for travel. My bare feet touching the ground at an airport is not going to happen, so I tend to always travel in socks, or at the very least keep a spare pair in my tote. I’ve been styling my latest airport looks wearing FALKE socks with Chanel penny loafers or slip-on boots.

A few styling tips I swear by for airplane travel:

1. Wear a comfortable trouser in a neutral color
2. Always bring an extra layer, like a cashmere sweater
3. Wear socks, or at least bring a pair in your tote
4. Wear a comfortable shirt so that you don’t feel restricted on the plane
5. No denim unless they have stretch. If they are stiff, save these for flights under two hours
6. Have a light jacket with you at all times. Think blazer or trench coat
7. Avoid sandals, shorts, or revealing clothing; it’s typically not the most appropriate

Here are some of the tried-and-true travel outfits that have taken me from London to Los Angeles, Spain, Italy, France, and back.

A Button-Down Under a Trench

Boarding my flight from Heathrow to LAX, I'm in a Zara trouser, Tom Ford shirt, La Ligne sweater, and a Sézane trench coat. I’m also carrying my favorite Gucci bag that has an adjustable strap so it can be crossbody. The pants are uber comfortable, and wearing an oversized button-down allows for me to be comfortable and move around with ease. A trench or light jacket is always a must, because I believe in smart layering for the plane.

Denim and White Trousers

This was just the other month, making another long-haul trip to Vancouver from London. This AGOLDE denim shirt felt so polished yet casual. I threw this on with a white trouser (risky, but one I was willing to take), a Gucci loafer, and a crossbody purse for my wallet and passport. In my carry-on I had a cashmere wrap from White + Warren (IYKYK).

Sharp Tailoring and a Tote

Another transatlantic look, this time flying from LAX to Heathrow. In my Tom Ford oversized men’s shirt, trusty trouser, Chanel loafers, an L.L. Bean tote, and a Gucci horsebit purse. I love this look because it’s so easy and comfortable, but has a tailored look. Trust me, I slept on the plane in this and was so relaxed.

Jeans and a Long, Light Coat

Departing LAX for the Rocky Mountains on a quick two-hour flight in La Ligne denim, Madewell flats, a James Perse t-shirt, and Club Monaco light coat. Polished, no-fuss, and perfect for a quick flight.

White Separates and Loafers

Another short-haul from London to Germany on my late summer holiday. Europeans tend to dress up a bit more on the day-to-day, and I wanted to look pulled together for this early morning flight. I’m wearing a Loewe Shirt and white trousers, paired with my trusty brown Gucci loafer, and always, an L.L. Bean tote.