Airport Outfit Inspiration for 2023
One of the famous “back in my day” tropes - “back in my day, people dressed up on planes!” While that idea appeals to my sense of aesthetics, traveling in 2023 has officially descended into 1984 (the book) territory and honey, we are all proles.
Despite this, many of us still strive to look like we have some dignity left at the airport. It is, in fact, still possible to look cute and be comfortable at the airport. If you’re tired of throwing on the same t shirt and leggings for the 40th time, here’s some airport outfit inspiration for 2023.
(FYI - this post contains affiliate links. Read my policies for more info.)
Before we get into my fashion recs, I also see a few common fashion mistakes at the airport. I’m not in the business of judging people based on aesthetics - but I will pity you for an impractical outfit on a 9 hour flight.
2023 Trends to NOT Wear to the Airport
Claw Clips
As cute as they are, claw clips are one of the worst things you can wear to the airport. If you’re in economy, you have maybe 1.5 inches to recline your seat (if that’s your bag), and you’re gonna negate that by adding a thick plastic clip? I know they seem breezy and casual and cool but on a plane they’re a one-way ticket to neck pain.
High Tops
While some airports are flirting with letting people keep their shoes on, many still require it. Picture it: you’ve got your amazing converse high-tops on, and it’s time to take your shoes off. The laces are tight. It’s taking too long to take them off. You can feel the people behind you getting restless. Your vision reduces to a pinprick. Everything is dust. Unless you have TSA pre-check, skip this nightmare.
Corset Tops with Boning
Corset tops are here to stay, and if it’s the fake kind with seams instead of boning, go forth. But if your top has actual boning, save it for the actual vacation. One of two things will happen: either you’ll be poked in the ribs the whole time, or the boning will bubble up over your lower abdomen and never have that cute, cinched look ever again.
Airport Outfit Inspiration for 2023
Chic Airport Outfit Inspiration: Print Midi/Maxi Dress
This is my favorite airport outfit for when my next stop after the airport is somewhere I need to look professional. A loose, well-circulating, longer dress hides a multitude of sins, isn’t constrictive on long flights, and easily stuffs into a carry-on if a change is in order.
Comfy Airport Outfit Inspiration: Sweat Set in a Bold Color
This is probably the main trend you’ll see at airports - oversized sweat sets in bold colors. It’s easy to wear, easy to throw on, and warm for chilly travelers (like me). Paired with gold jewelry, you’ll be in on the rich mom TikTok trend.
Gold Necklace: J. Crew
Sweat Suit: Abercrombie
Dad Sneakers: Asos
Cool Airport Outfit Inspiration: Bike Shorts and Oversized Tee
This outfit is cool in both the temperature and slang sense. A slightly more trendy and cool version of a t-shirt and leggings, it’s a fun 90s way to be comfy. I like an athletic bike short with a pocket for stashing my phone and ID. If you want to be especially Princess Diana about it, throw on a crew neck.
Jazzercise Top: Garage Sale Vintage
Striped Button-Down: Thrifted
Black Bike Shorts: Asos
Dad Sneakers: Asos
Sporty Airport Outfit Inspiration: A Neon Skort and Tank
While my feelings on athleisure are generally mixed, I do still love a little sporty spice moment. You can take athletic wear from utilitarian to fun with neon colors, and those breathable fabrics are perfect for long hours in stale airport air.
White Jacket: DSG
Neon Tank: Old Navy
Pink Skort: Halara
White Sneakers: Adidas Cloudfoam
Whatever you wear to the airport, remember: comfort and practicality are key. As long as you shower and don’t put your bare feet on things, your fellow travelers will thank you.
Are you traveling anywhere fun in 2023? Tell me in the comments!
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