Flying sucks. Make it better with these comfy airport outfits for women

CNN

08-04-2025

Take it from someone who's traveled to more than 50 countries: The best airport outfits for women prioritize your comfort. Especially on long-haul flights, you'll want to wear something comfortable and breathable that keeps you warm and still smells fresh even after stewing in it for 12 or more hours. It also helps if it doesn't restrict circulation and movement, as that will help alleviate the already cramped conditions in an airplane, especially when you're flying economy.
However, just because you're prioritizing comfort doesn't mean you can't be stylish, too. Finding that sweet spot between comfort and style is, in fact, easy, especially now that women demand comfy fashion over the concept of 'beauty is pain'.
I'm not just talking about loungewear here. As much as I love traveling, I also hate flying, so it's a must for me to fly in cozy, stylish clothing. And I can tell you that regardless of your vibe — whether you're all about the basics, like to keep things professional or love the athletic aesthetic — it's easy to put together the best airport outfit that's comfortable yet chic. Just take a look at the airport outfits I put together below.
As a general rule, I always prioritize buying basic wardrobe essentials as they're easy to match with edgier pieces. For flying in particular, putting a basic outfit together is easy — especially when you don't have the time to think about what to wear or have all your stylish outfits packed in your suitcase. Throw in a trendy jacket to elevate the outfit, especially in the cooler months.
Gap Modern Tank Top
Soft, comfortable and cool to the touch, this cheap white tank top is a must-add basic to every wardrobe. It's also very versatile it's an easy top to wear with any outfit.
Mango Parka With Contrasting Collar and Jacket
This barn jacket from Mango is my favorite Barbour alternative. It looks so British-royalty-in-the-highlands rugged chic for something so affordable and cozy.
Good American Good Palazzo Light Compression Jeans
These compression jeans are the perfect solution if you want to keep things snatched at the waist and still have good leg circulation during flights.
Coach Soho Sneaker
If it's good enough for Bella Hadid, it's good enough for me. These retro-style kicks from Coach are supportive and comfortable enough to run across the airport when you're late for a flight. I personally don't like wearing tight leggings on long-haul flights, as they dig into my skin and leave nasty marks on the sides of my legs. There's more than one way to get that sporty vibe, though; throw on looser flare fine-knit pants with a pair of dad sneakers. It's athletic yet sophisticated and still feels lounge-y.
Alo Seamless Delight High Neck Bra
I hate wearing a tight bra during a long-haul flight, but this sports bra from Alo is the exception. I can wear it for hours without needing to rip it off by body at the end of the day.
Spanx AirEssentials Half-Zip Sweatshirt
Made of almost 50% Tencel Modal, this thick, silky soft sweatshirt is one of the coziest items of clothing I own. It's also very light and breathable, which makes it especially great for travel.
Spanx AirEssentials Wide-Leg Pants
Round our sporty outfit out with these silky soft wide-leg pants from Spanx. A favorite of our fashion editor, Sophie Shaw, these are the ideal pants for flying — lightweight and roomy.
Asics GT-2160
I love my Asics shoes, but this pair is one of the most supportive from the brand's line-up. I've clocked in several thousand steps in these in a single day without experiencing fatigue. Traveling for business? You can stay professional without feeling constrained. Swap out your collared shirt with a basic tee, and throw in a snappy yet still comfy blazer that you can take off on the plane. Instead of heels, opt for loafers or boots designed for all-day wear. You'll be ready for a business meeting as soon as you land at your destination.
Buck Mason Field-Spec Boyfriend Tee
Our fitness editor, Tobey Grumet Segal, loves this casual yet polished white T-shirt, and so do I. It's roomy, breathable and stays odor-free for hours.
Abercrombie & Fitch Classic Suiting Blazer
A&F knows their stuff — this gorgeous blazer is among the best I've ever worn. It stays fresh all day and fits well enough that it's neither restrictive nor slouchy.
Reformation Petites Vida Low Rise Pant
These work pants look elegant and feel relaxed and roomy at the same time. They're also somewhat crease-resistant so you don't have to stress about looking disheveled after deplaning.
Naot Helm Booties
These booties from Naot are probably the most comfortable I've ever worn, thanks to their luxurious lining and cushioned insole. You'll love traversing through a large airport in these. Loungewear fans will tell you that it's the ultimate way to travel if you want to feel as cozy as you do at home. Donning a lounge set that's both relaxed and versatile makes it easy to transition from waiting at the airport to catching some zzz's in-flight to dragging your suitcases to the hotel, all while staying stylish the whole time.
Icebreaker Women's Merino 150 Siren Tank
Underscored copy editor, Rena Behar, swears by Icebreaker merino tops, and this one isn't just breathable and odor-resistant. It's also stylish, flattering and surprisingly versatile.
Alo Muse Hoodie
Meanwhile, our updates writer, Ellen McAlpine, prefers to fly with her Alo Muse set and for good reason. This cropped hoodie is flattering, plush and warm yet airy and nonrestrictive — the perfect lounge sweatshirt.
Alo Muse Sweatpant
Pair your Alo Muse Hoodie with these roomy yet also extremely flattering sweatpants. I've taken hours-long naps in these and never felt constricted.
Ugg Tazz II
For the ultimate lounging, of course you have to don your Uggs. These slip-on ones are effortless to put on and take off so you can easily give your feet a break, especially on long-haul flights. Preppy style is not just timeless. It's also polished yet casual, relaxed yet very put together. And with the right pieces such as a soft and warm sweater, a trench coat and a pair of leather kicks, you can make this aesthetic airport-friendly.
Buck Mason Mainstay Cotton Shirt
Wearing a crisp collared shirt may not be your idea of plane comfort, but this one from Buck Mason is feels soft and relaxed enough for travel days.
Buck Mason Idyllwild Cashmere Crew
Throw in this luxurious, lightweight sweater over, and you'll look instantly preppy without even trying. I also love that this sweater looks smart yet it feels ideal for lounging.
Old Navy High-Waisted Pull-On Pixie Super Wide-Leg Pants
I haven't bought anything from Old Navy in over a decade, but these flattering pants have convinced me to shop from the brand more.
Sézane Clyde Trench Coat
Trench coats make almost every outfit look sophisticated, but this one from Sézane adds a bit of prep with its beautiful check lining. It also feels well-made and is thick enough to keep you warm.
Xero Shoes Dillon Leather
Barefoot shoes like these leather barefoot sneakers from Xero are great for foot flexibility and strengthening, which may be helpful if you're the type to always arrive at your gate late. Trends come and go, but there's no harm in indulging in some of them, especially when you're investing in quality pieces that will likely be trendy again in a few years. Right now, it's all about the '90s, so matching tight fitting tops and baggy jeans is key.
Abercrombie & Fitch Essential Baby Tee
I, for one, am happy to see the return of baby tees. If you're going to invest in one, get this one from A&F. It's very lightweight and fits great, but unlike my other baby tees, the material feels very robust.
Quince 100% Organic Cotton Boyfriend Crew Sweater
This feels like the weighted blanket of knit sweaters — heavy enough to feel cozy but still very breathable, just the ticket if you want to some sleep in while you're in-flight.
Good American Soft-Tech Good Skate Wide Jeans
While not baggy per se, these wide skate jeans from Good American are both soft and roomy so your legs won't feel restricted, even when you're flying economy.
Mango Long Structured Wool Coat
Brown is the trendy color these days so throwing shades of brown — like this Mango long coat — into your outfit will go a long way. It's surprisingly inexpensive too for something that feels premium.
Dr. Scholl's x Milk Bar Rebel Sport Sneaker
Colorful sneakers are still very much on trend, but a lot of them don't offer that much support. These ones from Dr. Scholl's are extremely comfortable and cushioned, though, so they're perfect for travel. Even if you prefer simplicity and functionality above all, you can still travel in style, especially when you incorporate pieces that look and feel good. Flying is stressful as it is, and what's great about this no-fuss aesthetic is that it's so low-maintenance; it's one less thing to worry about when you're traveling.
Briavia Bridgewater Ribbed Tank
This TikTok-viral top is truly worth the hype — flattering, comfortable and even odor-repellant somehow. In fact, I now live in this tank top and wear it for pretty much everything.
Aritzia The Effortless Pant - Crepette
These elegant work pants from Aritzia have our managing editor Rachel Quigley's approval. They can refine any casual look while keeping it still low-key.
Quince Italian Wool Classic Single-Breasted Coat
This affordable wool coat from Quince truly looks upscale. Throw this on, and you'll rock that minimalist vibe and look like you're staying in a five-star hotel.
Ahnu Sequence 1.1 Sport
Leather sneakers like these ones from Ahnu are a great way to elevate a casual look. What I love about these specifically, though, is the support, lift and traction they provide. Wearing the right socks and underwear is also crucial to your in-flight comfort, so don't just throw on the first thing you find in your messy drawer.
Comrad CloudCotton Compression Socks
Compression socks are essential for flying, as they promote good blood circulation, minimize swelling and help prevent blood clots. I love Comrad's ankle compression socks, but these long ones are more effective.
Happy Socks
Compression socks are an acquired taste for some people, and if you're one of them, you'll probably want to switch to regular socks when you're on the ground. I recommend getting these soft, breathable ones from Happy Socks, available in loads of fun patterns.
Icebreaker Merino 150 Siren Thong
Merino fabric is lightweight, has great temperature regulation and has odor-resistance, which makes this underwear from Icebreaker an absolute essential especially for long-haul flights when staying fresh down there is a must.
Paka Essential Mid-Rise Brief
Want more coverage? I absolutely love this underwear from Paka. Like the Icebreaker, it has temperature regulation and odor-resistance. On top of that, it has antimicrobial properties to keep you feeling nice and clean for hours.Should women have different outfits for international and domestic flights?
Should women have different outfits for international and domestic flights?
Women do not necessarily need different outfits for international and domestic flights, but the choice of attire can depend on the length of the flight, destination and cultural considerations. For both types of flights, comfort is paramount — loose-fitting clothing, layers for varying temperatures and slip-on shoes are ideal. However, international flights may require additional thought regarding cultural norms or climate differences at the destination. Neutral colors and versatile pieces that can be re-styled are practical for blending in abroad and minimizing luggage. Domestic flights typically allow for more casual attire since cultural sensitivities are less of a concern. Ultimately, the key is to prioritize comfort while remaining presentable in a communal travel environment.
Do you need any warm clothes at the airport during the summer?
Do you need any warm clothes at the airport during the summer?
Yes, it's a good idea to have warm clothes at the airport during the summer, as airports and airplanes are often heavily air-conditioned, which can make the environment feel chilly. A lightweight jacket, cardigan or scarf is ideal for layering without adding bulk. These items can also come in handy during your flight, especially if blankets aren't provided. Even in summer, being prepared for fluctuating temperatures will ensure a more comfortable travel experience.
What type of pants are the best for comfort on a long flight?
What type of pants are the best for comfort on a long flight?
For comfort on a long flight, the best travel pants are those that are breathable, non-restrictive and versatile. Joggers and wide-leg pants are popular choices for their comfort and ease of movement. Brands like Vuori, Uniqlo and Eileen Fisher offer highly recommended options. Additionally, pants with stretchy materials and elastic waistbands, such as those from Lululemon, are ideal for long flights as they provide comfort without compromising style.
CNN Underscored editors thoroughly test most of the products we cover and provide full transparency about how we test them. We have a skilled team of writers and editors with many years of testing experience and ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when relevant to make certain we are testing each product accurately and speaking about the pros and cons of each item.
Testing writer Michelle Rae Uy is part of CNN Underscored's testing team. She is a former travel writer and has been traveling since she was a child. She wrote our best travel camera, best weekender bag and solo female travel guides.