The Rise of the Airport Outfit: Stylist Reveals How to Dress Like Your Favourite Influencer
You know the Insta shot – cases lined up, departure sign in sight and a gentle breeze catching their hair. From perfectly polished Rimowa cases, to show stopping silk two pieces, influencers are putting their all into creating an airport look and don’t we know about it; last year our news feeds and explore pages were flooded with this content and 2025 promises more of the same. It seems that the importance of nailing your airport outfit is paramount to any good holiday, with the keywords ‘Airport Outfit’ amassing 341.7M views on TikTok and 170k posts on Instagram. So, is it time to up our airport game?
Luckily, we’ve spoken to Megan Watkins, Head Stylist at SilkFred to breakdown what is required to pull off the ultimate airport look. From slipping into a silk set, to nailing your layered look.
What’s more, one of Instagram’s favourite fashion and travel influencer Em Sheldon shares her expert advice as to how to get the shot.
1. Elevate your usual tracksuit by swapping to a silk set
As much as we still love a tracksuit, a simple swap could be investing in a matching silk style two-piece. TikTok is going mad for the look with users proclaiming “it literally feels like you’re in pyjamas.” Stylish, cool, with the ability to keep us comfy on jam-packed flights, this look is a must-have this summer.
Megan says: “Not only will you look effortlessly glam, the silk set can be worn for one of your evening looks on your holiday. Go for a pulled back hair style and add beaded jewellery and a bold lip to finish.”
2. Nail your accessories
First things first, let us tell you what accessories are likely to set off the airport security scanners. The last thing you want is to spend ages taking off all your accessories.
Accessories that are likely to set off security:
- Headbands (many have a metal wire as the structure)
- Belts
- Shoes with buckles
- Watches
Now we have the basics covered, Megan explains why accessories are a perfect way to elevate your airport outfit:
Megan suggests: “Many influencers seem to be sporting baseball caps in their airport ootds. Not only is it a great way to add dimension and it-girl style to your airport outfit, but it ensures it doesn’t lose shape in your case.
“Caps are a great holiday staple come rain or shine and are perfect if you do any holiday excursions or adventures or simply shading your face in the heat. Plus, this simple accessory will have you looking just like your fave influencer or a low-key celeb.”
3. When it doubt, get your blazer out
A favourite of our constant style inspo, Kendall Jenner, Megan lets us know why business casual might be the best option for nailing the fashion game at the airport…
“Adding an oversized blazer to your sports set instantly elevates your look and adds some structure. If you get too hot, simply drape the blazer over your shoulders, just like your fave influencers do. This is a surefire way to create the perfect off-duty outfit for your airport snap.”
4. Layers on layers
We are often left wondering how influencers nail that effortless layered look? Megan tells us:
“Layering an classic oversized shirt over your outfit creates dimension and can be topped off by popping a crew-neck sweater over your shoulders to achieve the ultimate ‘quiet luxury’ look that everyone is loving right now. Not to mention this extra layer is sure to come in handy on the plane when the temperature lowers.”
“Pairing cycling shorts with a white vest and layering an on-trend striped oversized shirt makes for a great airport look. Not only this, each piece works well as separates once you’re at your destination. For instance, an oversized striped shirt also doubles up as a beach cover up.”
Now we have the perfect tips for dressing for the airport, travel influencer Em Sheldon shares her first hand knowledge when it comes to getting your airport outfit content.
Travel influencer Em Sheldon says: “I travel with no make up so my airport shot is always very candid and natural. If you’re up bright and early it may be a good idea to opt for big sunglasses like I often do. Comfy clothes are also a must. A jumpsuit is a perfect way to look pulled together but to also maximise comfort levels. Don’t forget a sweater as flights can often get chilly!”
“When it comes to snapping the perfect photo, lighting really is key. Ensure you frame the shot outside a nice looking terminal and get your luggage in shot – matching suitcases really do make the photo.”