Superior to Sneakers—The Footwear Style Women in Their 40s Are Donning with Jeans at Cannes Airport

      Choosing the right shoes for the airport remains one of the most enduring and unresolved dilemmas in fashion. Comfort is key, of course, but you also need a style that’s simple to take off and put back on after passing through security. This is why I’ve never quite understood the universal preference for sneakers while traveling. They can be cumbersome to remove and often take too long to unlace and relace. Don’t even get me started on the hassles caused when the laces come undone as you rush to your gate—it’s an impending disaster. Consequently, I'm always searching for effective airport outfits to inform my footwear decisions, and Cannes Airport is my favorite place to observe style, particularly during the Cannes Film Festival. This is where all the most fashionable individuals from art, film, sports, and fashion converge this time of year, with everyone arriving at the same location. It’s no wonder I quickly resolved my "what shoes should I wear to the airport with jeans" dilemma after checking out images from the arrivals area this week. Naturally, Diane Kruger, a consistent presence at the festival, was the inspiration.

      Kruger, renowned for her impeccable style at the Cannes Film Festival, arrived at the airport on Tuesday in a casual yet polished travel ensemble. She wore a loose white T-shirt and a baseball cap, paired with wide-leg black jeans and a pair of brown suede boots by Isabel Marant that featured a scrunched-down design, making them appear effortless, stylish, and comfortable. It's best to avoid overly tight shoes when traveling, as they can be detrimental to circulation. The 49-year-old actress completed her look with sunglasses and a white Givenchy Voyou Bucket Bag.

      The soft suede and relaxed fit of her boots are what make them an excellent option for air travel. When teamed with roomy black jeans, Kruger’s boots are easily removable, and the 45-millimeter heel provides a bit of height without compromising comfort. The pointed design adds a touch of sophistication, enhancing her casual T-shirt and jeans look and making her seem ready for any occasion upon her arrival in Cannes—not like someone who just stepped off a long flight. Can sneakers offer that?

      In my experience, the answer is no. So if your aim is to look as polished as a Cannes Film Festival attendee when flying off for your summer Euro-trip this year, set aside your sneakers. Opting for a pair of loose black jeans and some suede boots is always the smarter choice.

      **Shop Diane Kruger's Airport Outfit**:

      - **J.Crew**: Boyfriend Jersey Relaxed Long-Sleeve T-Shirt

      - **ZARA**: Trf High Waist Wide Leg Jeans

      - **ISABEL MARANT**: Edrik Gathered Perforated Suede Ankle Boots

      - **Givenchy**: Small Voyou Bucket Bag

      **Shop Black Jeans and Suede Boots**:

      - **H&M**: Wide High Waist Jeans

      - Great heel height for transitioning from the airport to dinner.

      - **Madewell**: The Wide Leg Jeans

      - Madewell jeans on sale? Count me in.

      - **Citizens of Humanity**: Brynn Drawstring Trouser

      - Ideal for long flights.

      - **ZARA**: Split Suede Cowboy Ankle Boots

      - A budget-friendly option that looks luxe.

      - **MANGO**: Danila High Waist Wide-Leg Jeans

      - A perfect pair of wide-leg jeans.

      - **Citizens of Humanity**: Annina Straight Leg Jeans

      - Versatile styling options.

      - **Dico Copenhagen**: Julia Gaucho Boot