I don’t know about you, but my Insta feed is FULL of people on holiday right now. On the one hand I’m green with envy and gagging to get myself on a plane ASAP, but I also can’t get enough of vicariously living through everyone else’s holiday snaps.
This year I’ve found myself not content with just a snap of hot dog legs on the beach, I’ve wanted to see it all. From pics sat on the balcony eating a giant packet of Lays (ideally paprika, in my humble opinion) to passionfruit martinis held up high as the sun sets in the background, I just cannot get enough of everyone living their best holiday lives.
And one underrated image I’ve been loving seeing on my feed? The smiling shot from the airport departure lounge. You see, not only are the lucky holiday goers beaming to be jetting off somewhere, but it also shows a vital yet under appreciated part of holiday outfit planning: the airport outfit.
Because, let’s face it, airports are an interesting place. It’s acceptable to have a beer at any time of day, everyone passes through whether they’re heading to Ibiza or Inverness, and while some people see it as an occasion to bring out their best loungewear, others see the airport as the perfect place to debut their holiday style.
So, after weeks of watching everyone ace airport dressing, I’ve pulled together the perfect looks for looking chic and staying comfy as you make your way to the boarding gate, no matter your chosen travel style…
Smart separates
Airports (and holidays in general) are the ideal place to test out your capsule wardrobe skills, especially if you’re limited to a light baggage allowance or hand luggage only. The best way to rock this look is to go for simple pieces in a classic colour palette, both when packing and picking your airport outfit, as this means they can be mix and matched together to create a multitude of outfits.
Shades of taupe, nude and black are an easy way to build a capsule wardrobe or try block-coloured brights to create fun colour-clashing look.
Dressed up
Brave, brave girls wear heels at the airport, but that isn’t to say there isn’t some sense in getting glammed up for the airplane aisle. Not only does putting on your best dress get you in the holiday mood early, but it also saves space in your suitcase as heels usually take up more room than your favourite sandals.
Wear your fave summer dress on the plane, then re-work it for dinner and drinks once your away. Just be sure to opt for loose, non-belted styles to ensure they aren’t too restrictive and finish with a block heel – just in case you need to make a last-minute dash to the boarding gate.
Cool co-ord
Co-ords are an airport style saviour, especially if you’ve got a super early flight and don’t want to have to think about putting an outfit together – a matching set does all the hard work for you. Go for a slinky, satin, tencel or linen, it’ll feel like you’re wearing pyjamas making on-plane napping 100 times easier and give your outfit an elevated, expensive feel.
Add a roomy crossbody bag, so you can stay handsfree, and chunky trainers and you’re good to go.
The tracksuit
If your airport vibe falls into the comfort-first camp, then look no further than a matching tracksuit. Super chic and made from 100% organic cotton, this green set from Life of Ease ticks both the snug and style boxes making it the perfect airport outfit for those who want to keep it simple.
Wear with a cap and slides for a relaxed, athleisure feel. Plus, they’ll also double up for wearing with a swimsuit on the beach – that’s some super-savvy packing.