The Craft of Airport Fashion: A Veteran Editor Explains Why She Continues to Dress Up for the Airport—and Offers Tips on How to Do It

      Chrissy Rutherford serves as the Editor in Residence for Who What Wear UK and is a fashion editor, writer, podcaster, content creator, and mental health advocate dedicated to promoting open discussions about wellbeing in the digital era. After spending 15 years in fashion media, she now utilizes her platform and FWD, a personal development newsletter, to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues, share her personal experiences, and promote vulnerability as a significant means of connection. This may stir some debate, but I firmly believe in dressing up for air travel. The travel experience already challenges our dignity, and the one thing that helps me feel somewhat civilized is looking good—while still holding onto comfort.

      I must admit, this belief hasn’t formed in isolation; it has been heavily influenced by my dad. He has shaped my style in numerous ways, but one of my strongest childhood memories is realizing that he always dressed a notch better when traveling back to Jamaica compared to a regular workday. He would don tailored trousers, a crisp shirt, and polished shoes. My dad greatly values his appearance, and that has certainly influenced me. Even as air travel has become more relaxed, he consistently reminds me that I don’t have to forgo my personal style just because others choose to. Plus, it’s worth noting: you never know who you might encounter on a plane.

      In addition to my dad, the supermodels of the '90s have always served as a major source of style inspiration for me. While I admire their glamorous moments, I find my greatest inspiration in their off-duty looks, particularly old paparazzi shots from airports. They always appeared effortlessly chic and composed, whether it was Tyra Banks in leggings and a cropped Calvin Klein t-shirt with a boxy denim jacket, Kate Moss in all-black ensembles, or Linda Evangelista in a basic black slip dress layered over a t-shirt (I definitely want to try that look). None of them ever gave the impression of just rolling out of bed and heading straight to the airport.

      Airport arrival photographs continue to be a popular opportunity for models and celebrities, as well as brands looking for exposure. Recently, Margot Robbie went viral for her casual basketball-style shorts paired with a matching long-sleeved tee and mesh Alaia flats, a look likely to be replicated worldwide for future summer vacations. With the Cannes Film Festival fast approaching, one could argue that the arrivals at Nice Airport can be just as inspiring as the red-carpet appearances.

      **My Travel Day Formula**

      1. Loose trousers are comfier than jeans yet look more sophisticated than sweats or pajamas.

      2. Stick to a neutral color scheme such as black, navy, gray, or brown. Monochrome outfits also appear more polished, though I don’t shy away from wearing white while traveling to vacation destinations.

      3. I prefer to wear the bulkiest pair of shoes I’ve packed. In summer, I might show my toes, but flip-flops are best left for the beach, as they can be noisy during a long walk to the gate.

      4. I always carry a cashmere scarf or an extra sweater that can be tied around my neck if I get cold.

      5. Outerwear is crucial since it’s typically the first thing people notice. A stylish trench coat or leather jacket can tie an entire outfit together.

      While I may not have a paparazzi photo opportunity awaiting me at the end of the jet bridge, I still enjoy disembarking from the plane looking like there could be one.

      **1. Easy-Breezy Trouser Style**

      **Style Notes:** Opt for trousers with a relaxed fit that don’t wrinkle easily. I believe slipping on a pair of black trousers is the quickest way to appear put-together without any apparent effort. Right now, I adore ME + EM’s Tapered Pant, though you can’t go wrong with elasticated waist options like Aligne’s barrel leg trousers.

      **2. Smart Layering is Essential**

      **Style Notes:** I often combine these with Intimissimi’s modal x cashmere shirts, which I love for their thin and soft texture. They layer well and the boat neck adds an elegant touch on its own. I generally layer with a cashmere or wool knit from Guest in Residence, & Daughter, or M&S to stay warm, as good layers are a must for me.

      **3. Maximize Your "Shoe-Drobe"**

      **Style Notes:** Footwear choice depends on my destination and what I’ve packed. I often aim to wear my heaviest pair, such as lug-sole loafers or ankle boots, but ballet flats are easy to wear, and I always bring cashmere socks in case my feet get chilly on the plane.

      **4. Dress for the Holiday You Want**

      **Style Notes:** When I’m heading to a warm location, I love a matching set for a combination of