I’ve pretty much had the same airport style for the best decade. Case in point: the photo on the left is what I wore to fly to New York this week. And the photo on the right is what I wore to fly back from New York in 2016. Sure, my travel uniform has changed a little over the years (different shoes, a new bag, etc). But when it comes to what to wear on a plane, I’ve always stuck to a comfy classic formula.
Layer, Layer, Layer!
No matter the season, I always layer for a flight. Nine times out of ten it’s freezing on a plane. But you never know when it will get super hot (it’s happened and let me tell you, it’s not fun). Here is what I always wear on a plane on top:
- Lightweight Base Layer: I generally stick to cotton, like a simple tee or wrinkle-free button down shirt.
- Sweater or cardigan: Depending on the season, I’ll either do cotton cardigan or a warm cozy pullover.
- Blanket scarf: Even in the middle of summer, I always bring a blanket scarf. Again, it usually is freezing on a plane and there aren’t always blankets.
- Jacket: This is where I switch it up the most. If it’s a rainy spring trip, I’ll layer with my trench coat. In the summer, I usually bring a denim jacket. And in fall/winter, I’ll wear my heaviest coat I’m brining.
This trip, I actually combined #2 and #3 with this cardigan wrap. It’s hard to tell in the mirror selfie photo but you can see the full outfit details better on Instagram Reels.
Dark on bottom
On bottom I always wear black or dark denim. Airports can be dirty and I don’t want to walk off a plane with stained pants! I also always make sure my pants are super stretchy. Here are the three types of bottoms I wear on a plane:
- Shiny Leggings: They look almost like leather leggings but they’re way more breathable and stretchy. Almost all the ones I have are from this brand.
- Dark Jeggings: I always look for ones that are mostly cotton with a little spandex. These are my favorites because they look like jeans but feel like leggings.
- Joggers: Again it depends on the season for what type of joggers I wear. In warmer months I’ll do cotton and in colder months I’ll wear my cashmere ones.
Lustrous Leggings
Chic Dark Jeggings
Comfy Cute Joggers
Slip on footing
I like to wear shoes that easily slip on and off. For winter, I generally do flat boots (always roomy ones since your feet can expand on a flight). And for warmer months I’ll either do a slip-on sneaker or loafers. These loafers are the comfiest ever! Plus, they hide my no-show socks. I always wear some type of sock when I’m flying. Again, airports can be dirty!
Strategic Bagging
I know you’re only allowed to bring two bags on a plane. But I always bring three. And it’s never breaking the rules because one always fits in the other. Here are the three bags I bring on board:
- Crossbody or Belt Bag: I like to keep a small bag close to my body for easy access to my essentials (phone, lip balm and hand sanitizer). When I go through TSA or board the plane, I simply put my small bag in my shoulder bag.
- Roomy Weekender: For years I carried this bag. I loved it because it weighed nothing and was expandable. Then I was introduced to this bag. And I’m obsessed with this one because it has pockets for everything. And it’s super chic. So I now swap between the two.
- Carry-On Spinner: Even when I’m checking a bag, I still bring my roller bag (All my luggage is from this collection). I have a bad back so I find it way easier to push a roller bag with a weekender on top rather than carrying a heavy bag on my shoulder. Plus, I have more room to pack a change of clothes just in case the airline loses my bag. I’ve been doing this ever since that happened to me the first time I went to fashion week.
Minimal Accessories
I don’t really like to wear too many accessories on a plane. I, of course, keep on the dainty gold jewelry I wear every day. And if I’m bringing expensive jewelry (like these new earrings my boyfriend got me for birthday), I’ll wear them. I never want to chance losing them in a bag.
I always always stuff a baseball cap in my bag just in case I get off the plane and my hair is a mess. Oh, and a face mask, of course.
I hope this helps you next time you’re packing for a trip! For more travel ideas, check out the Travel Section of my blog!


On the plane, I always want to be in comfortable clothes that do not hinder movement, but at the same time look nice and stylish.
Your airport style is truly a classic that hasn’t changed in a decade! The layering strategy is so smart—practical and fashionable at the same time.
Dark pants + comfy shoes make so much sense; airports can be messy, and this combo is both stain-resistant and convenient.
The three-bag strategy is such a clever travel hack—stays within the rules while letting you bring more stuff. Genius!
I love the idea of having a go-to travel uniform—it makes flying so much easier and more comfortable. Choosing the right outfit really helps you stay relaxed during long trips. For those planning road adventures instead of flights, checking out Midland TX RV parks can be a great way to travel comfortably and explore at your own pace.
I love the idea of having a go-to travel uniform—it makes flying so much easier and more comfortable. Choosing the right outfit really helps you stay relaxed during long trips. For those planning road adventures instead of flights, checking out Midland TX RV parks can be a great way to travel comfortably and explore at your own pace.
Love this, Sydne! It’s so relatable to have a go-to travel uniform. I found it fascinating how you’ve maintained a similar airport style for a decade, yet it’s still evolved. Comparing your current New York outfit to the 2016 one really highlights that subtle but effective change. Great tips for comfortable plane fashion!
Wow, this guide on what to wear on a plane is truly comprehensive and relatable! I love how you emphasize layering—it’s something so many travelers underestimate, especially since airplane temperatures can fluctuate so dramatically. Your tips on lightweight base layers, cardigans, and blanket scarves are spot on. I always bring a cozy scarf on flights too because even in summer, the cabin AC can turn into a mini freezer. The idea of switching jackets based on season is brilliant; it keeps the look stylish yet practical, which is exactly what we need during travel.