I Figured Out How to Nail Airport Style Once and for All

by Kristen Nichols

I’ve recently taken a number of international flights. First to Italy, then to London and Paris, and later, back Paris again. On each of these flights, I was determined to streamline my outfits, so I put some research into what I needed, as well as the pieces that could stay behind. Studying some of the best celebrity airplane outfits, I developed an airport capsule wardrobe that has defined what I wear when I travel.

The capsule is built around pieces that are the perfect balance of functional and stylish—like matching luggage and comfortable shoes. Notably, it excludes items like metal jewelry as well as flip-flops, which TSA spokesperson Lisa Farbstein named the worst shoes to wear to the airport. Instead of wondering what to wear for your next flight, I’m breaking down nine stylish pieces that celebs (and I) can vouch for.

1. Sleek Luggage

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Nothing comes off as more polished than great luggage. Bonus points if you travel with a matching set.

2. A Timeless Carry-On Bag

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I took style notes from Ashley Olsen here. She convinced me to upgrade my nylon carry-on bag to a croc version.

3. Comfortable Sweats

Airport capsule wardrobe comfortable clothes

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With the rise of athleisure, there's proof that dressing in relaxed pieces like sweatpants can actually look really cool. On a plane, I want to be comfortable but also stylish—and wearing a head-to-toe monochrome sweatsuit is the way to achieve both.

Wilfred Buffon Pant ($125)

Available in sizes XXS to L.

4. Loose-Fitting Jeans

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If I'm in the mood for jeans, though, I opt for a loose-fitting pair like Bella Hadid.

Agolde The Baggy Jeans ($168)

Available in sizes 24 to 28.

5. An Oversize T-Shirt

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6. A Trench for Layering

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Nothing pulls jeans and a T-shirt better than a trench coat. Plus, it's a great layering piece when traveling during the fall.

Violeta Classic Trench Coat ($120)

Available in sizes XS to XL.

7. A Silk Duster

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If I want something more comfortable and relaxed than a trench coat, I'll wear a silk robe coat. It adds an extra layer to stay warm, plus pulls together any look.