How to Give Your Airport Style a Chic and Comfortable Upgrade in 2020

airport style
Photographed by Cass Bird, Vogue, December 2014

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Catching a flight might be stressful, but your travel wardrobe shouldn’t be. Believe it or not, it’s still possible to look chic while combating backed-up security lines, braving minimal legroom, and enduring long layovers or delays. It’s all about developing a travel uniform and a roster of go-to accessories that will take you from point A to point B in style. With a reliable line-up of cozy loungewear, airport-ready footwear, and a few high-quality travel accessories, here’s how to make coach feel like first class.

Become a travel pro—or at least dress like one—with this guide to upgrading your airport style, below.

Upgrade to a Luggage Set

A matching luggage set can bring out your inner jet-setter and boost your airport style game in one fell swoop. No matter your boarding group, a tote and carry-on pairing from Paravel makes for a chic and efficient way to travel without checking bags. Alternatively, you can easily spot what’s yours at the luggage carousel with a color-coordinated cabin and checked bag from Rimowa.

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Paravel Atlantic tote

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Paravel aviator carry-on plus

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Rimowa Essential small cabin bag

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Rimowa Essential large check-in bag

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Away aluminum edition, set of two

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Away aluminum edition, set of two

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Calpak leather duffel bag

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Calpak large suitcase

Travel Accessories You Won’t Find in the Terminal

With the right accessories, you can always feel like a travel pro. Avoid last-minute purchases from overpriced stores in the terminal, and instead opt for travel gear that not only looks the part, but can be used time and time again. Having your own silk travel pillow and eye mask set makes any red-eye or long haul flight infinitely more comfortable, while a leather headphone and passport case keeps your belongings stylishly organized, and always within reach.

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Calpak silk travel neck pillow and eye mask set

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Bottega Veneta airpods case

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Smythson passport cover

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Ven Store travel blanket in navy

Loose, Layerable Loungewear

For those who only travel in loungewear, you’re in luck. Elevated basics from Le Set and Entire World make travelling more comfortable than ever, without looking as if you’ve just rolled out of bed. If sweatshirts or leggings aren’t your thing, stick to loose, layerable options as an alternative. Bonus points for matching sets.

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Entireworld cozy brushed sweatshirt

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Entireworld cozy brushed sweatpants

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Everlane cropped alpaca cardigan

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Grlfrnd Carla stretch-denim wide-leg jeans

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Naked Cashmere Campbell sweater

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Naked Cashmere Aubrina jogger

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Leset Lori belted stretch jersey cardigan

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Leset Lori stretch jersey wide-leg pants

Shoes That Slide

If you don’t have pre-check, don’t fret. Comfortable flat shoes are still the no-fail solution when it comes to dressing for the airport—whether your priority is breezing through security or being able to slip your shoes under your seat with ease. For those who run a tight ship when it comes to suitcase packing, it’s essential to wear shoes on the plane that also work for your travel destination: double-duty sneakers are a reliable choice, whether you’re exploring a new city or making the most of a hotel gym. If you’re heading from cooler to warmer climes, or vice versa, a pair of slip-on sandals are a surprisingly versatile style, too. Get yourself a pair of ribbed wool or cashmere socks, and you re ready to go—whatever the weather.

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Birkenstock Arizona shearling-lined sandals

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Gucci convertible slip-on loafers

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New Balance 990v5 sneakers

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The Row Friulane velvet loafers