I'm dreaming of a summer full of long weekend getaways and relaxing beach vacays. And although it's easy to go wild creating looks for your dream destination, there's one key outfit you might be forgetting about: Your airport 'fit.
I often opt for a sweat set while traveling in the winter months, but that's not usually an option once the warmer months arrive. The problem is two-fold: A) I hate having bare legs in the airport and B) Maybe I'm exposing myself here, but I run HOT and tend to work up a sweat while sprinting to my gate or wading through long TSA lines...so I need to wear pieces that won't leave me feeling overheated.
Luckily, through trial (and definitely error), I've developed some crucial warm-weather outfit formulas that equally stylish and functional. The key? Sporting light layers that can be easily stashed in your carry-on, without sacrificing comfort while schlepping it in your coach seat. Ahead, peep warm-weather airport outfit inspo that'll earn you tons of compliments from your fellow travelers.
Polished and Professional
I've heard all of my friends who work in business gripe about putting together a professional yet comfortable travel looks for their work trips. My advice? Start with Artizia's Lodge Pants styled with a polished button down. As someone who lives for a sweater draped over my shoulders, it's rare to catch me without a cozy option on hand, like this Quince crewneck. Accessories like a polished loafer and a luxe leather tote lend a vibe that's sure to impress any co-workers on your flight.
Aritzia The Lodge Pant
Cushionaire Boat Shoe Loafers
Quince Organic Cotton Boyfriend Sweater
Madewell The Signature Woven Tote
I Can't Believe It's Not Denim
Rag and Bone's viral sweatpant jeans look like a standard pair of wide-leg denim, but they're actually made from the same fabric as your favorite sweats. I'd style them with associate shopping editor Megan Uy's holy grail white tee and my personal holy grail sweatshirt, quite literally named the Airport Sweatshirt. Don't forget to add a pop of color with a pair of bold red sneaks and this custom BaubleBar tote.
Rumored Airport Sweatshirt
Rag & Bone Miramar Wide-Leg Pants
Buck Mason Pima Slim Crew T-Shirt
BaubleBar Custom Alpha Tote
Track Star Chic
The ~cool girls~ seem to be wearing track pants everywhere as of late, especially silky styles like this Gap option. They'll go well with your favorite graphic tee and a sporty windbreaker; I even found these leopard-print slip-on sneakers that are perfect in the event TSA asks you to kick off your shoes. But if you're going to buy one item from this story, make the Calpak Luka Duffel, which I've previously waxed poetic about.
lululemon Transformable Windbreaker
Calpak Luka Duffel in Silver
Sam Edelman Talia Sneaker
Nautical Stripes
Whether you're heading to the beach or not, channel sailor vibes in the chicest way going with this adorable striped set, which also comes in a shorts version, if you're into it. Dress up the ensemble with a stylish cropped trench, and no matter if you're spending your flight catching up on work or binge-watching reality TV, blue light glasses are always a good idea.
Tankaneo Cropped Trench Coat
Free People Quilted Carryall Bag
Madison Avenue Oversized Blue Light Glasses
Light Linen Layers
Linen is one of the most popular travel fabrics, and for good reason. It's supposed to be ~artfully~ wrinkled, so you don't have to stress about looking sloppy during an airport delay. I'm always a fan of monochromatic looks with strategic pops of color, so I'd opt for all-white base layer with an oversized button down, an eye-catching pair of sneakers, and your go-to baseball hat—although fair warning that it might spark up convo with a sports-loving seat mate.
RoseSeek Wide Leg Linen Pants
Quince Organic Cotton Relaxed Oxford Shirt
'47 Yankees Baseball Cap
Madison McGee is a commerce editor at Hearst Magazines. For the past year, she has contributed shopping content, gift guides, product testing, and deals coverage across Hearst’s portfolio, which includes Good Housekeeping, Women’s Health, Men's Health, House Beautiful, Elle, Town and Country, Esquire, Country Living, Oprah Daily, and more. Prior to joining Hearst, she was a staff writer at BuzzFeed and worked in book publishing. Madison is a graduate of the University of Mississippi’s journalism program, and holds a Masters in Publishing from New York University. When she’s not scouting out the best deals, she can be found reading, cheering on the Baltimore Ravens, or exploring New York City’s indie bookstores.
