Let me set the record straight: I love traveling. But during the summertime? It can feel like a stressful Jet2Holiday (cue the TikTok sound). There's always the possibility of flight delays as travel season hits its peak, which can mean you might need to spend the night at a hotel without your luggage. If that weren't stressful enough, there's the reality that airports get incredibly busy around this time of year because everyone's trying to have their Euro summer, translating to much longer wait times everywhere. It can be taxing to figure out all the details (e.g., where to go, what luggage to bring, what to pack), and the last thing you want to worry about is what to wear for a flight. Of course, I'm not judging if you're anxious about choosing an outfit for the airport!
As a seasoned traveler, I can tell you that it's not always easy to curate a practical and polished ensemble, much less one that's also TSA-friendly. Sure, you can always turn to some of those tried-and-true travel staples: tracksuits, cozy sweaters, and baggy jeans. But for those hoping to wear something a bit more sophisticated? Well, that's when it's time to turn to the French fashion set for inspiration. Nowadays, there's no shortage of inspiration to teach you how to dress for a flight without sacrificing function or fashion. Ahead, you'll find a curation of six summer outfit ideas spotted at Charles de Gaulle Airport, styling tips, and shopping suggestions. Follow these travel outfit formulas, and you'll not only navigate the fluctuating summer temperatures at the airport and on the plane like a pro, but everyone at the airport will think you're a local.
WEAR: Baseball Cap + Wireframe Sunglasses + Gray Cardigan + Black Tank Top + Belt + White Jeans + Ballet Flats + Oversize Tote Bag + Carry-On Suitcase
Styling Notes: Any seasoned traveler can attest to the fact that while summer might be filled with sweltering hot days, the moment you step into an airport lounge, you can quickly find yourself freezing—enter the ensemble above. The key to nailing airport dressing lies in embracing layers, such as a gray cardigan styled over a black tank top paired with white jeans and functional accessories.
Snuggle up.
Don't be afraid to invest in a good base layering piece for your trip. (You'll be glad you did.)
Pro tip: Opt for baggier denim to avoid any in-flight discomfort.
You won't have any issues taking these off in the TSA screening line.
You'll be the chicest person in the airport with these shades.
Never underestimate the importance of investing in a good carry-on suitcase.
WEAR: Black Sunglasses + Gold Earrings + Tan Blazer + Cropped Crewneck + Black Trousers + Black Flats + Black Shoulder Bag + Watch + Carry-On Suitcase
Styling Notes: When you want to arrive at your destination looking like you just came from Paris (or are Parisian yourself), don't be afraid to pick more "polished" pieces. Try making a few simple swaps, such as picking a cropped crewneck over a tank top, trousers instead of jeans, and a blazer over a cardigan. It seems simple enough, but it's a surefire way to embody the French set's signature je ne sais quoi the moment you step off the plane.
You'll wear this long after your summer trip is over.
Meet the perfect layering piece.
Trousers that work whether you're out of office or on the clock.
Ballet flats are the traveling shoes of choice among the French set.
Yes, she's spacious enough to fit all your in-flight essentials.
Our editors swear by this carry-on suitcase!
WEAR: Black Sunglasses + Gold Earrings + Tan Trench Coat + White Tank Top + Straight-Leg Jeans + Black Ballet Flats + Two-Tone Crossbody Bag
Styling Notes: When you can't be bothered to wear a blazer or trousers on the plane, but you still want to look polished, let the look above be your flight plan. You can make the most basic tank top and jeans look far fancier simply by adding a trench coat, two-tone crossbody bag, and timeless ballet flats.
In-flight drafts will have nothing on you.
You'll be able to restyle this simple tank when you arrive to your destination in so many ways.
You won't regret taking a pair of classic-cut jeans with you.
Consider this your permission slip to buy these flats (for the trip, obviously).
Who said crossbody bags couldn't be chic?
Main character energy, activated.
WEAR: Sunglasses + Gold Earrings + White V-Neck Tank + White Linen Maxi Skirt + White Mules + Brown Resin Bangle + Oversize Brown Tote Bag + Carry-On Suitcase
Styling Notes: While pants are always a safe bet for any flight, some destinations are far too hot to try to squeeze into jeans. What's the next best option? A maxi skirt in a lightweight material such as linen, cotton, or satin. Pair your skirt with a tank top, pointed mules, a few bangles, and an oversize tote bag, and you'll be the coolest person (in every definition of the word) in the airport lounge.
It's made from knit, so you'll be able to stay warm once you're in the air.
Now here's a skirt that can make moving around the airport a breeze.
If you're going to wear heels, make it a style that's easy to slide on and off in airport security.
Just think of all the in-flight snacks you can fit in here.
These earrings give off "I spend my summer vacationing in Saint-Tropez" energy.
Resin jewelry is a great alternative to wearing metals to the airport.
WEAR: Brown Sunglasses + Hoops + Layered Chains + White Shirtdress + Ballet Flats + Crossbody Bag
Styling Notes: Another effortless yet elegant airport ensemble to add to your radar? The white shirtdress. Not only will wearing this piece ensure you're not late to your flight, but it can be even more practical for your trip when paired with a functional crossbody bag and ballet flats.
You can also style this over your swimsuit at your destination.
Don't worry. It's lightweight, so you won't break out in a sweat.
Très chic.
You'll carry this across the globe.
Every summer wardrobe is incomplete without a pair of oversize hoops.
Love, love, love.
WEAR: Baseball Cap + Oversize White T-Shirt + Silver Watch + Striped Linen Pants + Retro Sneakers + Carry-On Suitcase
Styling Notes: By now, you've hopefully got a better idea of what to wear to the airport in the summer, but if we can share some final wisdom before you take off, let it be to keep it simple. It's already taxing to travel during this time of the year, so don't be afraid to turn to those tried-and-true travel staples, such as an oversize T-shirt, retro sneakers, and a baseball cap. You can always make them a bit more "stylish" by opting for breezy striped linen pants (as shown above) styled with a sleek timepiece and a solid carry-on suitcase.
Pretend you're a celebrity at the airport with this baseball cap.
An oversize T-shirt will always be a safe choice for a flight.
You'll actually be able to sleep on the plane if you wear these pants.
Running in the airport just got way cooler.
Never miss boarding time again.
Your future self will thank you for securing this suitcase.
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