6 Editor-Approved Airport Outfits That'll Double Your Chances of an Upgrade (2024)

One of the most popular things we cover here at Who What Wear is airport style. Pictures of what Gigi Hadid, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Rihanna, Kendall Jenner and more wear to terminals across the world are always just as loved as any fashion week street style pictures. It is, therefore, (unofficially) within our job descriptions to look at endless pictures of airport style, so you can bet we WWW editors have our own long-haul uniforms down.

6 Editor-Approved Airport Outfits That'll Double Your Chances of an Upgrade (1)

(Image credit: @camillecharriere)

Here, several of our editors have broken down what they always wear to travel and divulge their tips on staying comfortable and looking stylish at 39,000 feet. Our personal styles couldn't be more different on a day-to-day basis, but when it comes to travelling, we all have similar tactics for formulating airport outfits. Each editor sticks to neutral palettes to make layering even easier, and every single one of them travels in a pair of flat shoes—some even opt for the very same trainer brand. Scroll below to see what six of our editors wear when travelling.

Hannah Almassi, Editor in Chief

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(Image credit: @hannahalmassi)

"It's been so long since I've flown that I almost can't remember what I usually wear, but from what I recall, I like to prioritise a long cardigan or big shawl—something I can wrap myself up in on the plane (I always feel the cold) that's also packable and resists creasing so I can bundle it up into a big basket bag. (Yes, I take my basket bag on the flight as I don't want it to get ruined in a suitcase). I'd most likely chuck this over a comfy midi dress or slouchy trousers with a tee—never jeans as they're so uncomfortable!"

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6 Editor-Approved Airport Outfits That'll Double Your Chances of an Upgrade (3)

Johnstons of Elgin

Cashmere Poncho

"Something like this also doubles as a handy, chic cover-up on chilly nights."

6 Editor-Approved Airport Outfits That'll Double Your Chances of an Upgrade (4)

M&S Collection

Cotton Rich Slim Fit T-Shirt

"I like my T-shirts fitted, not baggy."

6 Editor-Approved Airport Outfits That'll Double Your Chances of an Upgrade (5)

Loewe

Paula's Ibiza Small Shell Basket Bag

"I wish itwere mine."

6 Editor-Approved Airport Outfits That'll Double Your Chances of an Upgrade (6)

H&M

Wide Linen-Blend Trousers

"One word: comfort."

6 Editor-Approved Airport Outfits That'll Double Your Chances of an Upgrade (7)

Dear Frances

Bridge Slide in Nut

"I have these in navy suede, and they're so easy to throw on with all summer outfits."

Maxine Eggenberger, DeputyEditor

6 Editor-Approved Airport Outfits That'll Double Your Chances of an Upgrade (8)

(Image credit: @maxineeggenberger)

"Whether or not I'm travelling, I'm the sort of person who likes to layer year-round as I always feel the chill. For the plane, I'll wear a blazer over a shirt layered over a vest, and then I'll drape a cardigan overtop of my tote so I have it on hand when I inevitably get cold. Although my outfits usually revolve around dresses and skirts, jeans with stretch in them are my go-to for flights (again with the sole intention of keeping myself cosy). Superga trainers serve as my shoes of choice as they allow me to dash as quickly as possible from the plane to baggage collection to my hotel. I'm all about maximising my pool time."

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6 Editor-Approved Airport Outfits That'll Double Your Chances of an Upgrade (9)

Sézane

Gaspard Cardigan

"Hands down, the best and most versatile knit I own."

6 Editor-Approved Airport Outfits That'll Double Your Chances of an Upgrade (10)

The Frankie Shop

Lui Organic Cotton-Poplin Shirt

"When I land, I'll style this over everything from bra tops to satin slip dresses.”

6 Editor-Approved Airport Outfits That'll Double Your Chances of an Upgrade (12)

& Other Stories

Slim Cut Jeans

"These jeans are stretchier than they look."

6 Editor-Approved Airport Outfits That'll Double Your Chances of an Upgrade (13)

Collagerie

Raffia Striped Tote

"Roomy enough for all of my in-flight essentials (read: skincare products and snacks)."

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Superga

2750 Cotu Classic White Trainers

"Every outfit is improved with these classic trainers."

6 Editor-Approved Airport Outfits That'll Double Your Chances of an Upgrade (15)

(Image credit: @remyfarrell)

"There is something supremely decadent about cloud-soft cashmere on a long-haul flight, and as I end up building most of my holiday outfits around a basic tank top, I'll wear one to the airport layered under a jacket. As soon as I step off the plane and into the heat, I'll swap out the comfy trousers for a printed midi skirt to make the most of that bare-legged feeling."

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6 Editor-Approved Airport Outfits That'll Double Your Chances of an Upgrade (16)

Whistles

Cady Leather Jacket Overshirt

"To swap out the vinyl trench coats I lived in all winter, this cropped jacket has me covered for the chilly welcome back to Britain."

6 Editor-Approved Airport Outfits That'll Double Your Chances of an Upgrade (17)

Reiss

Violet Scoop Neck Ribbed

"A versatile vestis the wardrobe staple you need for summer."

6 Editor-Approved Airport Outfits That'll Double Your Chances of an Upgrade (18)

N.Peal London

Cashmere Trousers in Navy

"Ultra soft and impossibly chic."

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Bottega Veneta

Arco Tote Bag

"An oversized tote is a must for me on a plane. After all, it has to hold all of my impulsive duty-free purchases."

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Superga

2795 Cotu Trainers

"Classic white high tops are my go-to airport shoes."

Emily Dawes, Affiliate Editor

6 Editor-Approved Airport Outfits That'll Double Your Chances of an Upgrade (21)

(Image credit: @emilyjdawes)

"I like to be comfortable but still feel a little put-together when I travel. That's why these H&Msatin-look trousers are perfect. They feel like pyjamas but look like tailoring! I also like to travel in layers as I'm only ever too warm or too cold. A hoodie is cosy, but I'll add a chic trench layered on top for when I leave the airport. If I'm flying somewhere warm, I'll stow the jumper in my case as I go through passport control. Of course, a roomy tote that doubles as a work or beach bag at the other end is an essential. And for shoes, slip-ons are my go-to, and since investing in a pair of Birkenstock Bostons recently, I can't imagine a better plane shoe. Compression socks optional."

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6 Editor-Approved Airport Outfits That'll Double Your Chances of an Upgrade (22)

Totême

Double-Breasted Cotton-Blend Gabardine Trench Coat

"I own this trench and think it's well worth the investment."

6 Editor-Approved Airport Outfits That'll Double Your Chances of an Upgrade (23)

Colorful Standard

Hooded Cotton Sweatshirt

"Hoodies don't come chicer than this beige iteration."

6 Editor-Approved Airport Outfits That'll Double Your Chances of an Upgrade (24)

Arket

Heavyweight T-Shirt

"The tee our editors all love."

6 Editor-Approved Airport Outfits That'll Double Your Chances of an Upgrade (25)

H&M

Lyocell-Blend Trousers

"H&M always delivers on comfy trousers."

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Chloé

Woody Medium Leather-Trimmed Linen Tote

"This designer canvas bag has been on my wish list for months."

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Birkenstock

Boston Suede Clogs

"I'm devoted to my Boston Birkenstocks."

Remi Afolabi, Video Content Creator

6 Editor-Approved Airport Outfits That'll Double Your Chances of an Upgrade (28)

(Image credit: @remiafolabi)

"I'm definitely the layering type when it comes to travelling. It makes it easy for me to adapt to my environment weather-wise. I've developed a love for matching sets as of late and adore this Le Ore cardigan-and-trouser combination—a much more stylish alternative to the regular tracksuit. Trench coats are easy to throw on and don't carry too much bulk, which I like. Love how elevated this trench coat looks in this light sage colour."

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6 Editor-Approved Airport Outfits That'll Double Your Chances of an Upgrade (29)

Topshop

Longline Trench Coat in Sage

"With a trench, I always feel that I look a lot more put together—this one is lightweight enough to throw on and off when needed."

6 Editor-Approved Airport Outfits That'll Double Your Chances of an Upgrade (30)

Reformation

Madalie Knit Two Piece

"You don't have to think too much about your look with a stylish matching set."

6 Editor-Approved Airport Outfits That'll Double Your Chances of an Upgrade (31)

COS

Oversized Shopper Tote

"A serial over-packer needs hand luggage that leans on the bigger side."

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Reebok

Classic Leather Legacy Shoes

"Comfort is essential when it comes to footwear. A pair of trainers is always my go-to."

Eleanor Vousden, Beauty Editor

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(Image credit: @eleanorvousden)

"I'm one of those rare breeds of people who like to travel in jeans. I'm not sure why, but Idon't like to feel too sloppy when I travel, so I never wear jogging bottoms or anything too slouchy. I typically wear jeans, a T-shirt and a smarter blazer, and I'll bring a big scarf for the plane."

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6 Editor-Approved Airport Outfits That'll Double Your Chances of an Upgrade (34)

Arket

Oversized Linen Blazer

"This blazer feels summery thanks to the linen fabric."

6 Editor-Approved Airport Outfits That'll Double Your Chances of an Upgrade (35)

Arket

Crew-Neck T-Shirt

"My all-time favourite tee."

6 Editor-Approved Airport Outfits That'll Double Your Chances of an Upgrade (36)

& Other Stories

Fringed Wool Blanket Scarf

"I'm always so glad for a scarf when I'm on a long-haul flight."

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Whistles

Stretch Barrel Leg Jean

"The looser silhouette ensures these jeans are comfortable to travel in."

6 Editor-Approved Airport Outfits That'll Double Your Chances of an Upgrade (38)

M&S Collection

Leather Bow Ballet Pumps

"Any shoe other than flats is out of the question."

This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.

Next Up:6 Outfits That Make This Simple Summer Item Look So Much More Expensive

Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts

Airport Style Tips from Who What Wear Editors

Airport style is a popular topic covered by Who What Wear, and their editors have shared their tips on staying comfortable and looking stylish while traveling. Each editor has their own unique style, but they all have similar tactics for formulating airport outfits. Let's take a look at what some of the editors wear when traveling.

Hannah Almassi, Editor in Chief

Hannah Almassi prioritizes comfort and warmth when traveling. She likes to wear a long cardigan or a big shawl that she can wrap herself up in on the plane. She prefers something that is packable and resists creasing, so she can easily bundle it up into a big basket bag. Hannah usually pairs her cardigan or shawl with a comfy midi dress or slouchy trousers and a tee. She avoids wearing jeans as she finds them uncomfortable [[1]].

Maxine Eggenberger, Deputy Editor

Maxine Eggenberger likes to layer her outfits year-round, even when traveling. For the plane, she wears a blazer over a shirt layered over a vest. She also drapes a cardigan over her tote bag so she can have it on hand when she gets cold. Maxine usually opts for jeans with stretch for flights to keep herself cozy. Her go-to shoes are Superga trainers, which allow her to move quickly from the plane to baggage collection to her hotel [[2]].

Remy Farrell, Video Content Creator

Remy Farrell prefers a layered approach to dressing when traveling. She likes to adapt to different weather conditions by layering her clothing. Remy has developed a love for matching sets and finds them to be a stylish alternative to regular tracksuits. She also finds trench coats to be easy to throw on and off without adding too much bulk to her outfit. Remy particularly likes a light sage-colored trench coat for its elevated look [[3]].

Emily Dawes, Affiliate Editor

Emily Dawes prioritizes comfort while still looking put-together when she travels. She finds satin-look trousers from H&M to be perfect for achieving this balance. They feel like pajamas but look like tailoring. Emily also likes to layer her outfits as she tends to feel either too warm or too cold. She wears a hoodie for coziness and adds a chic trench coat on top when leaving the airport. Slip-on shoes, particularly Birkenstock Bostons, are her go-to footwear for flights [[4]].

Eleanor Vousden, Beauty Editor

Eleanor Vousden is one of those rare people who likes to travel in jeans. She prefers not to feel too sloppy when traveling, so she avoids wearing jogging bottoms or anything too slouchy. Eleanor typically wears jeans, a T-shirt, and a smarter blazer for her airport outfit. She also brings a big scarf for the plane to keep herself warm and comfortable [[5]].

These are just a few examples of the airport style tips shared by the editors at Who What Wear. Each editor has their own preferences and strategies for staying comfortable and stylish while traveling.

6 Editor-Approved Airport Outfits That'll Double Your Chances of an Upgrade (2024)

FAQs

What to wear to get a flight upgrade? ›

Look smart

The surest way to avoid an upgrade is to wear shorts or a tracksuit. Wear a suit or at the very least dress smart casual and you increase your chances of a better seat hugely.

What is the best outfit to wear to the airport? ›

Prioritize Comfort: Choose clothing that is soft, stretchy, and nonrestrictive, such as joggers. Layer Wisely: Wear layers that can be easily added or removed to adjust to the changing cabin temperature. Compression Clothing: Consider compression socks to help with circulation during long periods of sitting.

What to wear to the airport in 2024? ›

The Best Clothes to Wear on Airplane
  • Loose Loungewear. When it's all about keeping it casual, there's no beating loose loungewear. ...
  • Workout Sets. ...
  • Layers. ...
  • A Matching Set. ...
  • Slip-on Shoes or Sneakers. ...
  • Breathable Fabrics. ...
  • Joggers or Pants with an Elastic Waist. ...
  • A Scarf or Shawl.

How do I look classy on a plane? ›

Designers Share Their Top Long-haul Style Tips
  1. Dress in black and white. “Monochromatic tones are an effortless way to look your best. ...
  2. Choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics. ...
  3. Stick to a uniform. ...
  4. Pack a different outfit for the plane. ...
  5. Dress in cashmere. ...
  6. Carry a stylish bag. ...
  7. Take mini hair products.

Can flight attendants upgrade you? ›

We are not allowed to upgrade passengers unless they are paying for an upgrade onboard the aircraft, which actually is pretty pricey!” longtime flight attendant and industry commentator Patricia Green wrote in 2023. "[…] Yes, there might be empty seats, but we are not allowed to give them to you, free of charge."

Why wear red at the airport? ›

Stephanie Lee, a writer for the blog Airline Tips, shares that “Airline staff may subconsciously perceive passengers in red as more important or of higher status, leading to enhanced customer service experiences.” Red is attention-grabbing, so your outfit could result in more attention from flight attendants.

How to dress to airport female? ›

Wear loose clothing.

Loose sweaters are extremely comfortable, especially if you pair them with jeans or leggings. Loose fitting dresses or pants are also a good choice for flying. A loose sweater will keep you warm and will feel comfortable, including if you end up sitting in the airport or on the plane for hours.

Can I not wear a bra to the airport? ›

What items to avoid while going through airport security. Our experts say the worst thing to set off the scanner at security is metal. Personal stylist Jennifer Koch says even having an underwire in your bra can potentially be problematic, though not everyone experiences this issue.

Should you wear jeans on a plane? ›

Ditch your jeans

“It's always sensible to wear comfortable bottoms with a stretchy waistband,” says Shotter. So, swap your jeans for some athleisure wear instead.

How can I look cute at the airport? ›

10 Cute Airport Outfit Ideas to Browse After You Finally Booked That Trip
  1. A Leather Jacket and Knit Set. ...
  2. A Blazer and Joggers. ...
  3. A Crop Top and Paperbag Pants. ...
  4. A Metallic Jacket and Jeans. ...
  5. A Knit Sweater and Matching Pants. ...
  6. A Camo Sweatshirt and Coordinating Pants. ...
  7. A Parka and Cargo Pants. ...
  8. A Fuzzy Jacket and Lived-In Jeans.
Jun 22, 2022

What to wear for a long flight woman? ›

Pieces made of finely woven knits that feel as soft as a cloud, compression fabrics that prevent swelling, and buttery cashmere travel blankets that you can cocoon yourself in are among the ones we recommend for overnight or otherwise lengthy flights.

Can I wear a long skirt to the airport? ›

“If you are opposed to getting patted down, then wearing a maxi skirt or dress isn't your best bet because the officer will have to check you are not hiding anything under your skirt,” says Pruitt. “Believe it or not, too many bobby pins [kirby grips] will set off the metal detector alarm.

What do you wear to a business class upgrade? ›

Next time, I would pick a business-casual — yet comfortable — outfit. In an interview with Who What Wear, the cabin crew described the kinds of outfits that help people get upgraded to first class. Employees said passengers should avoid "jeans, joggers and dirty trainers" — guilty.

Is it OK to ask for an upgrade on a flight? ›

The flight attendants told the outlet that upgrade requests can be made any time between booking the flight and boarding, though they advised that travelers ask as early in the process as possible.

Is there a dress code for first class? ›

So is there a first class dress code? Generally not, but even if an airline doesn't have a dress code for business or first class, you should always consider the purpose of your trip, who you're traveling with, and whether you're flying for free on an employee guest pass before deciding what to wear.

How do I ask for a free upgrade on a plane? ›

Many airlines offer upgrade options through their loyalty programs, so be sure to check your account status. You can also ask the gate agent when you check in or the flight attendant once you're onboard. Be polite and respectful, and remember that upgrades are never guaranteed.

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