There are a small handful of places we really want to look our best: a first date, job interview or perhaps when bumping into an ex at the supermarket. First and last impressions are important, after all. The airport, however, has never struck us as a place where we need to look particularly preened. Until now, perhaps – social media shopping site LTK has just reported a 21,000% increase in searches for airport outfits. 

While cosy comfort is usually the only thing on our minds when considering our in-flight fashion, with tracksuits, leggings and extra soft socks (sometimes accompanied by Crocs) making a regular appearance, the rise in loungewear and snuggly sets means we no longer have to choose between fashionable and functional. Just take a look at brands such as Adanola, Rotate Sunday, Adidas or Pangaia for inspiration.

For short-haul flights, what you wear often requires less thought. More often than not, if you’re only away for a few days, you’ll want to spend as little time as possible faffing around with outfit changes. So comfy jeans, a midi or maxi dress or even a pair of leggings will have you stepping straight off of the plane and into sightseeing mode in no time. Just make sure to wear a jumper or a jacket to beat the aircon chill.

Long-haul flights are where comfort really is key, and fashion fans are now sharing their chic and cosy looks on social media, six of which we’ve shared below. So, if you’re looking for travel outfit inspiration, keep scrolling. Although, if you’ve already exhausted yourself with all the other admin holiday prep, pulling on a pair of leggings and your comfiest socks is never a bad idea when stepping on a plane. 

The humble tracksuit is a go-to for all kinds of travelling and, as with any co-ord, it will have you out the door in minutes, looking effortlessly put together in record speed. Plus, they’re soft, snuggly and can be worn with a vest top underneath to keep you warm or cool depending on the aircon situation.

Fashion fans lean towards labels including Rotate Sunday, this chic granite green sweatshirt has caught our eye (£150); Adanola’s incredibly soft hoodie sets (£59.99); and the logo-free Skims zip-up hoodie (£70) and matching joggers (£68). 

Blazers are one of the easiest ways to smarten up any outfit. So if you’re travelling for work or just want to feel a little fancy while up in the air, add one to your trusty travel outfit of leggings, trainers and a plain T-shirt. We’d recommend throwing a jumper into your bag for a softer, warmer layer when on the plane. 

Neutral shades will help the blazer stand out against black leggings, such as this single-button M&S option (£69) and this double-breasted Reiss find (£278). If you’d prefer a basic black, this Cos find will work with almost any outfit (£135), airport and beyond. 

While shorts may not be the first thing that springs to mind when building an airport outfit (leather seats and bare legs are no match made in heaven), longline options will help you lean into the warm weather look without your skin touching the seat. We’re particularly fond of the sports-like styles such as this side-stipe Adidas pair (£33), Arket’s French terry burgundy pair (£37) and Lululemon’s sunshine yellow style (£78). Style as you would tracksuit bottoms and you’ll be well on your way to travelling in style. 

Sportswear and gym kit is designed to be comfortable, making it a great option for travel outfits. Plus, the bright and bold colours are an easy way to step into the holiday mood, even if it’s pouring down with rain on the runway. Key pieces that have piqued our interest include the classic Adidas three stripe tracksuit bottoms (£60), available in a wide range of summer-ready shades; Nike’s colourful windbreakers (£89.99); and this varsity-like With Nothing Underneath cap (£32). 

If the idea of wearing a tracksuit in any setting sends shivers down your spine or you’re travelling for work and want to look a little more elegant, you can be formal and be comfy at the same time, it’s just a matter of finding the right pieces. 

Allow us to introduce you to the trouser-jogger hybrid that’s started to gain popularity in recent seasons, offering the best of both worlds. Reiss excels at formal-fitting tracksuit bottoms, such as this strong front seam style (£118) and drawstring waist trouser (£150). Me+Em’s soft shirred waist styles (£175) caught our eye, as did this navy Hush pair (£69). Simply pair with pumps, a T-shirt and a cosy cardigan and you’re guaranteed to look elegant even after 11 hours in the air. 

Yes, linen is prone to creasing but that all adds to its laid-back charm. Plus, the lightweight fabric will keep you cool when stepping off the plane and into (hopefully) sunnier climes. Matching tops and shirts, especially in a neutral shade, will have you out the door in minutes and pair perfectly with sandals and trainers. 

Gap had a great range of linen shirts in a whole host of shades (£50); M&S has a nice neutral set, with the shirt (£35) and trousers (£39.50) sold separately. And, if you’re tempted to try a more colourful look, take a peek at Nobody’s Child’s gorgeous green trousers (£65). 

Images: Getty