There is something rather anthropological about the experience of going to an airport. The moment you step through those automatic doors you are confronted with all manner of people exhibiting their own unique patterns of behaviour: the harassed young families running after toddlers on Trunkis, the stag dos drinking VKs in their giant baby costumes, the inexplicably coiffed couples exiting Louis Vuitton laden with logoed shopping bags. David Attenborough would have a field day.
In fashion, “airport style” has always been a thing. Long before street style dictated the sartorial agenda and celebrities posted mirror selfies on their personal social feeds, airport paparazzi shots were the ultimate source of style inspiration. While the royal family have been proving their travel fashion credentials for over a century, it’s the ’90s supermodel era that is, arguably, considered the golden age of airport fashion. Who can forget Kate Moss in her deceptively simple white tank, straight-leg jeans and leopard-print bag? Or Tyra Banks repping leggings and a leather jacket? They were cool but not try-hard, comfortable yet still polished – it’s a winning formula that has transcended the decades.
Our top tips for super-worthy airport style? Never underestimate the excellence of a roomy travel bag to help you carry your essentials in style. Clothing-wise, a comfortable bottom half is a no-brainer – think leggings, tracksuit bottoms or an elasticated waistband skirt. But remember: comfy doesn’t have to mean sloppy. Why not consider a tracksuit in a more premium fabric, such as cashmere? Or, for a smart spin on sporty shorts, try adding a striped shirt. Elsewhere, grey sweatpants will feel instantly more directional with sparkly ballet pumps.
But, then again, if you want to roll out of bed in a hoodie and pyjama bottoms, then all power to you. As we have learned from the supers: it’s not just about what you wear, but how you wear it.
