Which vibe is your travel outfit giving?

by Staff Bona

Travel days don’t have to mean sacrificing style for comfort. With the right wardrobe choices, you can glide through airport terminals looking polished, feeling comfortable, and ready for anything—from a long-haul flight to an impromptu selfie in front of your departure gate.

Whether you’re jetting off on a tropical getaway, heading to a business trip, or flying home for the holidays, choosing the right airport outfit can make all the difference. You want to be comfortable enough for long hours sitting on a plane, but also look polished for arrivals or layovers.

Luckily, airport fashion doesn’t mean sacrificing style for comfort — you can absolutely have both.

The ‘elevated comfort’ look: Luxe loungewear meets runway ready

This look is ideal for long-haul flights, red-eyes, or early morning check-ins. It delivers maximum comfort without looking like you rolled out of bed.

What to wear:

  • A matching knit co-ord set (think ribbed joggers and a relaxed pullover or sweater).

  • Oversized cashmere or merino wool wrap or scarf—doubles as a blanket on the flight.

  • White sneakers or slip-on loafers (with compression socks underneath for circulation).

  • Layer with a longline wool coat or a structured trench for elegance.

Style tip: Stick to neutral tones—beige, charcoal, or ivory—for a rich, cohesive look that can go from gate to brunch if your hotel room isn’t ready yet.

The ‘cool-girl classic’ ensemble: Street style with a twist

If you are taking a city break, a stylish getaway, or when you’re trying to make a statement. This is your look. It’s comfortable enough for transit but fashion-forward for a destination arrival photo.

What to wear:

  • High-waisted straight-leg jeans or wide-leg trousers with a slight stretch.

  • A plain white tee or fitted tank.

  • A cropped leather jacket or bomber.

  • Platform sneakers or chunky boots.

  • Accessories like a baseball cap, a designer crossbody bag, and sleek sunglasses.

Style tip: Add gold hoops or a silk scarf in your hair to elevate the outfit and bring that “off-duty model” energy.

The ‘minimal & chic’ traveller: Parisian-inspired simplicity

Imagine a European travel, solo trips, or the low-key luxury woman. This outfit is understated but polished, and layers easily for temperature control.

What to wear:

  • Tailored black trousers or elevated leggings (preferably with zip or slit details).

  • A soft cotton or jersey button-up shirt, half-tucked.

  • Lightweight blazer or trench coat.

  • Loafers or ballet flats with arch support.

  • A structured tote that fits under the seat.

Style tip: Opt for monochrome dressing (all black, navy and cream, or tan and white) for a cohesive, high-fashion feel.

The ‘athleisure jetsetter’: Sporty, sleek, and ready to go

Ideal for: Active trips, weekend getaways, or the woman who’s always on the move.
Why it works: The athleisure look is breathable, practical, and still trendy.

What to wear:

  • A stylish activewear set (matching sports bra and high-waisted leggings).

  • An oversized zip-up hoodie or half-zip pullover.

  • A quilted vest or lightweight puffer jacket.

  • Running shoes or slip-on trainers.

  • Belt bag worn crossbody style.

Choose high-quality performance fabrics that resist wrinkles and wick away sweat—you never know when a delayed flight might turn into a sprint across the terminal.

The ‘coastal grandmother’ vibe: Light, airy & relaxed

If you are heading to warm destinations, island vacations, or wellness retreats, this will be your look. It channels elegance while keeping things breathable.

What to wear:

  • Linen wide-leg pants or flowy culottes.

  • A breezy button-down shirt or a tank layered under a soft cardigan.

  • Espadrilles, Birkenstocks, or minimalist sandals.

  • A floppy hat or oversized sunglasses.

  • Straw tote with a large pashmina inside.

Stick with whites, creams, sky blues, and sandy hues. The linen may wrinkle a bit—but that’s part of the charm.

The ‘business class boss’: Sleek and sophisticated

This outfit is perfect for business trips, work retreats, or when you’re flying first class (or dressing like you are). It’s sharp but not stuffy, and ensures your presentation-ready upon arrival.

What to wear:

  • Stretch pencil skirt or tapered ankle pants.

  • Silky blouse or fine-knit turtleneck.

  • Tailored blazer with a hidden inner pocket (for passport, boarding pass).

  • Mules or pointed-toe flats.

  • Minimalist backpack or luxury laptop bag.

Keep jewellery simple and opt for a fresh manicure—you never know when you’ll be shaking hands on landing.

Final touches for every look

No matter your style, some essentials are always a good idea:

  • Compression socks: Keep blood flow healthy during long flights.

  • Layering pieces: Airplanes are unpredictable—always bring a warm layer.

  • Mini beauty kit: Lip balm, facial mist, hand sanitiser, and a hydrating cream go a long way.

  • Slip-on shoes: Make security lines easier and more comfortable.

  • Confidence: The most stylish travellers wear confidence like a second skin—own your look and walk with purpose.

Airport outfits aren’t just about looking good—they’re about feeling ready. Ready to relax, ready to land, ready to embrace whatever adventure comes next. Whether you’re channeling your inner boss babe or a soft-girl traveler, your travel outfit should reflect your mood, destination, and identity.

Pack thoughtfully. Dress with intention. And let your style tell the story of where you’re going next

First published by: Woman & Home

Words compiled by:  Amy Steenkamp

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