Want to travel in style? These outfits keep you cool and comfy from takeoff to touchdown.
Your airport style sets the tone of your travel fashion, and as you know, looking good is good business. So why abandon that philosophy the moment you step into an airport? There’s something almost magical about nailing your airport style; it makes you feel like the protagonist of your own story. Even if it’s a 6 am flight to Abuja.
Picture this: you’re walking through the airport and your outfit makes other travellers glance up from their phones. Maybe it’s the jacket that looks both relaxed and luxe, or the way your well-tailored trousers feel and look comfortable. Whatever it is, you feel ready for the plane, the destination, and the version of you that’s about to step off that flight.
Between packing your beauty essentials and important documents, your airport outfit might fall to the bottom of your list. Don’t fret; mastering airport style is about maintaining a balance between practicality and sophistication.
As someone who experiences motion sickness while travelling, comfort is my priority, and I balance it with my personal style. I believe my airport style is an introduction to who I am once I arrive at my destination, so I always put my best foot forward.
So, if you’re also searching for that sweet spot between cosy and chic, effortless and intentional, this guide is for you. Whether it’s a short work trip or the start of a dream vacation, here’s how to do airport style your way.
The matching set maven
(Matching sets & statement accessories)
There’s a reason co-ords continue to dominate airport terminals — they easily solve the “what do I wear?” crisis. Co-ords make your airport style look well-thought-out. Whether it’s a buttery-soft silk set or the perfect wrinkle-free crepe two-piece, matching sets are your shortcut to looking intentional.
The real magic is in the styling details. Start with a tonal set in bright or rich earth tones that photograph beautifully in natural light. Then go with minimal but statement pieces that make people look twice: gold hoops, oversized sunglasses, and a handbag that adds just the right colour pop.
Style tip: Coordinate your sneakers or slides with your carry-on. It’s a small detail that signals intentionality.
The terminal CEO
(Oversized blazer & sneakers)
An oversized blazer is the ultimate power piece, no matter how you style it. It is structured enough to mean business and also protects you if the cabin gets chilly.
To nail the perfect airport style, layer your blazer over casual and comfy pieces — joggers, a jumpsuit, or the tank top and jeans combo. It’s also a great addition to your athleisure wear because the combination of tailored and sporty creates the impression of intentional styling. The first impression is that you have a cool, creative, and edgy personal style.
Style tip: Style your blazers with cool sneakers for a street style look. The New Balance 550s, classic Nike Cortez, or Veja offer a French girl chic vibe. Add the right accessories, and you’ve got yourself a statement but chilled airport outfit.
The Gen Z jetsetter
(Cropped tee/tanktop & wide-leg trousers)
This is the off-duty model look translated to airport style. It’s cool, comfy, and effortless. I call it calculated chaos because it often looks like a lot of the details are an afterthought, but they just work. Go for high-waisted pants in soft cotton, wool, or denim — something that moves with you but still has structure. Pair it with a logo-cropped tee or tank top, comfy sneakers, and you instantly nail the “I have no problems” look even if you’re internally panicking about your check-in details.
Proportions are everything here: fitted on top, flowing on the bottom. It emphasises your features and gives a structured silhouette. This outfit says you’ve got style without even trying.. It nails that sweet spot between effortless and intentional — relaxed enough for a six-hour flight, cool enough to start exploring any city.
Style tip: Add a mini baguette bag, statement sunglasses, and let your lip gloss pop.
The street-style globetrotter
(Sweatshirt, midi/maxi skirt & sneakers)
Catching an early morning flight? This look saves you from looking like you rolled out of bed — even though you absolutely did. Think elevated comfort: soft sweatshirts and maxi proportions with the slip skirt. The skirt falls beautifully along your body while still allowing you to move with ease. This outfit is simple but suggests intention.
Remember, the footwear makes or breaks this look, so go for stylish sneakers or cute slides depending on the weather. A cool pair of boots is also a good choice for colder climates.
Accessories make the look
Now, we know the hassle of having to take off all our “metals” during check-in, but the right accessories are still worth it. They elevate your look, taking it from basic to stylish.
Style tip: Go for sunglasses for instant chic, a multipurpose silk scarf, a simple set of rings, and a statement neckpiece.
At the end of the day, your airport style echoes how you want to step into your journey. Whether you’re channelling the matching set maven energy or mixing comfort with flair as a street style globe trotter, it all comes down to one thing: feeling like the main character of your story.
So the next time you’re standing in front of your mirror, trying to decide on your airport style, remember: comfort keeps you moving and style keeps you glowing. The right airport look sets the vibe for the entire trip.
