The Best and Worst Fall Trends to Wear to the Airport

So there are a lot of people watching what goes on at airports. And for that reason, I've gotten a little carried away with my outfits in the past. Not as in I got super dressed-up to travel, but I'd wear non-stretch jeans with heels that were a tad higher than heels that you should wear to the airport, for example. Following unfortunate travel fashion mistakes such as that, I now very carefully consider which trends can and can't be put to the airport test.

I actually think that fall is the easiest month to dress for travel days. You don't need bulky outerwear, and you aren't faced with the predicament that summer presents with cold airports and planes and sweltering temperatures outside. But there are some trends percolating in the fashion world that have the potential to ruin a perfectly good travel day, as they aren't conducive to sitting on a cramped plane for long hours or running to catch a flight.

Keep scrolling to find out which trends to avoid at the airport and which to wear instead this fall (and the celebrity examples to prove it).

Worst: Lamé

Best: Beige

Shiny silver styles were all over the F/W 19 runways, but unless you want a lot of quizzical stares from your fellow passengers, it's best to stick to more neutral hues, such as beige (which is still trending hard).

On Bella Hadid: Chanel sunglasses; Commission Cotton-Gabardine Jacket ($1015) and Straight-Leg Pants ($795); Stand Studio Lolita Faux Shearling Tote ($156); Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Sasha High Top Sneakers ($70)

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Worst: Minidresses

Best: Oversize Trousers

There was certainly a party mood on the fall runways, but it's best to skip wearing anything too short to the airport. I try to do everything in my power to avoid plane seat–to-skin contact. Luckily, wide-leg trousers (which are also everywhere) are here to save the day.

On Priyanka Chopra: Oliver Peoples Indio Sunglasses ($545); Alberta Ferretti blazer and pants; Re/Done 90s Ribbed Cap Sleeve Tee ($95)

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Worst: One-Shoulder Tops

Best: Statement Sleeves

This one comes with a bit of a disclaimer. You don't want to wear massive puffed sleeves that will get in your way and/or your seat neighbors', but an easy way to look like you tried without really trying is a subtle puffed sleeve. Follow Charlize Theron's lead and choose a cozy knit version for maximum comfort.

On Charlize Theron: Ulla Johnson Lucille Alpaca Turtleneck Sweater ($495); L'Agence Marguerite Jeans ($235)

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Worst: Rigid Skinny Jeans

Best: Loose Jeans

While long, rigid skinny jeans are once again a trend, they're not airplane-friendly. I repeat: They are not airplane-friendly. Loose jeans, on the other hand, definitely pass the long-flight test.

On Kaia Gerber: Polo Ralph Lauren blazer; Brandy Melville sweater; Tumi luggage; Jimmy Choo Cruz Boots ($1095)

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Worst: Capes

Best: Trench Coats

Capes are having a moment, and while they're certainly chic, they restrict your movement. Trench coats are much more suitable for travel, as they're lightweight and protect you from the elements that might await you at your destination. Plus, they're everywhere right now, in both classic and unique iterations.

On Irina Shayk: Celine sunglasses; Dr. Martens 1460 Boots ($140)

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Worst: All-Leather Looks

Best: Knitwear

I know that saying knitwear is in for fall is like saying florals are in for spring, but it really is, so pile them on. Leather clothing is another big trend, but if you prioritize comfort when traveling, it's best to save it for another occasion.

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Worst: Platform Boots

Best: Plaid Shirts

Platform boots are one of the freshest boot trends on the market but not great for trekking through the terminals. Another '90s grunge trend that is, though, is flannel shirts, which are both comfortable and cool in a model-off-duty way.

On Kendall Jenner: Adidas Originals Daniëlle Cathari Recycled Polyester Track Pants ($100) and Sleek Sneakers ($80)

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Next up, the best and worst things to pack, according to a frequent-flyer editor.