The '90s-Inspired Airport Uniform I Swear By
My tried-and-true outfit formula for a summer flights
Last winter, I wrote about ‘90s inspired airport looks for long-haul flights. As summer is fast approaching, it’s time to zero in on ‘90s airport style inspiration again. This time with warmer weather and higher temperature shifts in mind.
Back when my husband and I were doing long-distance, I had a go-to formula for when I was flying over in the summer: something that felt effortless but could still hold up after eight hours in the air. This outfit formula is heavily inspired by the looks pictured above, but with more practicality in mind. Think layers, fabrics that keep you comfortable (not too hot, not too cold), and pieces you don’t have to fuss with at security.
So, in today’s letter: my tried-and-true summer airport outfit formula for long-haul travel.
Cotton knitwear
Instead of a jacket, I usually opt for a lightweight knitted cardigan or sweater in 100% cotton. I’ll tie it around my waist or shoulders while moving through the terminal, then wear it over a t-shirt once I’m on the plane. Unlike wool, cotton is lighter, more breathable, and naturally cooler against the skin. If you’re traveling to a warm destination, cotton knitwear is also great to throw over your outfit when it gets chilly in the evening.
Stretchy- or wide cotton pants
Out of feer for being padded down in the TSA line, I don’t usually like to wear skirts or shorts. Instead, I wear a pair of wide leg cotton pants or a pair of stretchy kick-flares. I managed to thrift a pair very similar to ARKET’s Press-Crease Cotton Trousers for only $2 a couple of years ago. They have been my go-to whenever I have a long-haul flight in the summer. If you’re based in the US, J. Crew’s Kaya pant in Bi-Stretch Cotton blend is a very good alternative for these.
Slip-in shoes
If you’re flying from an airport in the US and don’t have TSA PreCheck, you’ll know how stressful it is to quickly have to take your shoes off and on at in the TSA line. To make the screening as smooth as possible, I usually wear a shoe that slips on and off easily, such as a pair of loafers, mules, or slides. Recently, I have been obsessed with vintage slip-on mules from the ‘90s, and there are a lot of cheap ones available on eBay. (Just search ‘vintage woven mules’ or ‘vintage slip in mules’.)
Here are a few examples of how I would put a look together:
💬 Do you have a go-to airport outfit formula? Share it in the comment section below. I’d love to know!
📌 Fashionably Late may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through one of the links above. Thank you for trusting me with your shopping!
I have a 10+ year old reversible wool cape I wear for every long haul flight. It works as a jacket or big scarf and extra blanket in a pinch. 👌