There was once a time when I didn't think too hard about what I would wear to the airport. The only criteria was that it be cute and not too sloppy. But after years of being uncomfortable and annoyed by my outfit choices, I've finally reformed. I have some summer travel on the horizon, and there are a few things you can bet you won't see me wearing in the terminal.
One of the more challenging things about dressing for the airport in the summer is changing temperatures. While airport terminals and planes are often freezing, it's likely sweltering outside the airport. While I still struggle with what to wear to get around this temperature predicament, I'm always confident about what I'm not wearing on summer travel days.
Below is the list of items I'll never wear to the airport in the summer and what you'll catch me wearing instead.
Skipping: Shorts
Wearing: Loose Trousers and Jeans
Call me a germaphobe, but the idea of my bare legs touching anything on a plane is the definition of icky. But since it's probably going to be hot when I step outside the airport, I always make sure the pants or jeans I wear are loose to allow for airflow.
Shop Loose Trousers and Jeans
It's hard to believe these are only £20.
If you want to wear jeans, opt for a baggy pair.
Comfortable yet chic.
The comfort of joggers with an elevated look.
Skipping: Bare Sandals
Wearing: Simple Trainers and Flats
In terms of safety, airplanes and airports aren't the best places to have your feet exposed. And if you've ever had to run to catch a connecting flight in flip-flops, you probably told yourself you'd never make that mistake again.
Shop Simple Trainers and Flats
Every time I step outside I see someone wearing On.
A classic.
You can't go wrong with a pair of Veja's.
Loafers are a chic alternative.
Skipping: Leggings
Wearing: Comfortable Midi Dresses
While leggings at the airport are perfectly acceptable during autumn and winter, they can feel a bit suffocating during long, hot summer days. Long casual dresses, on the other hand, are a great comfortable alternative.
Shop Comfortable Midi Dresses
Wear this straight off the plane to work, a beach or really anywhere.
You can't beat a simple black dress.
Add some trainers and you're good to go.
This would make for a seriously comfortable travel look.
Skipping: 100% Polyester
Wearing: Breathable Cotton and Linen
This one is pretty simple. Clothing that's made of 100% polyester will not breathe. A blend of fabrics is usually fine, but 100% polyester is a sweaty travel day waiting to happen. Your best bet is to wear 100% cotton, except when it comes to jeans—whatever you do, don't wear stiff 100%-cotton jeans.
Shop Cotton Items
I love the contrasting stripe angles.
We're so glad the cargo trend is back.
Linen is another breathable fabric choice.
Stiff jeans might be a no, but a jean jacket is always a good idea.
Skipping: White Trousers or Jeans
Wearing: Darker Neutrals
It's pretty much a law of science that if you wear white pants on a plane, you will spill something on them. After all, your lap is basically your table for the day. Do yourself a favour and wear something that won't show every spill and smudge.
Shop Darker Neutrals
So many of our editors rate these joggers.
This pair comes in a range of colours.
An elasticated waist is also a clever choice.
These are seriously cool.
Skipping: Belts
Wearing: Hats
Feel free to disagree with me, but belts aren't comfortable for a day spent sitting. That said, I love trendy accessories, so I like to wear baseball caps and bucket hats. As a bonus, they offer sun protection.
Shop Hats
My secret weapon for a bad hair day.
The distressing details are a nice touch.
This immediately went on my wish list.
If you're heading somewhere hot, wearing your hat will save you figuring out how to pack it.
Skipping: Arm-Bearing Shirts*
Wearing: Layers
By arm-bearing shirts, I mean arm-bearing shirts without a light jacket or jumper. You'll inevitably be freezing at some point in your journey, so don't go unarmored.
Shop Pieces to Layer
Every year this jumper comes back. Every year we rate it highly.
Layering up is a must for changing temperatures on the plane or on arrival.
A cool outer layer option.
With 96% cotton and 4% elastane, this simple top is a clever choice for a long haul flight.
This story originally appeared on Who What Wear U.S.
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