From dressing for two distinct climates to the great sweatpant debate, styling a chic airport look comes with its own unique set of challenges. With countless flights under their belt, these seasoned jetsetters turn to a tried-and-tested formulas to achieve their effortlessly elevated aesthetic. Think: trainers, chic yet comfy trousers, and a statement jacket, blazer or coat layered over a classic white top, finished off with versatile layering pieces from the Michael Kors Empire jewellery collection.
Below, our four fashion insiders reveal their favourite airport looks, and their top tips for staying stylish en-route.
VICTORIA MAGRATH
@victoria
“I'm not one to travel in loungewear, as it never makes me feel my best. My go-to for the airport is a pair of wide-leg trousers, with a beautifully cut t-shirt and a leather jacket or blazer, depending on what weather I'm flying into. My schedule is not always forgiving, and I often need to go straight from the airport to appointments or events. I tend to prioritise versatility when it comes to dressing, which is why elevated basics work for me. With the right jewellery and a change of shoes and handbag, I can be ready for anything.
“Jewellery is a great way to express your personal style and individualism. I love the silver slimline bangle from the Michael Kors Empire collection – bangles featured up and down the runway for A/W 2023, and this one is the perfect balance between statement and subtlety. I layered it with their chain bracelet and the brand's Lennox silver-tone watch to add dimension.”
ANNA IDRIESS
@anunanna
“When I fly, I want to be comfortable but still stylish. I often stick to a one-colour palette, such as beige, cream, white or brown. When the colours match, it looks put-together but still effortless. I like to wear loose clothes for comfort, so my go-to outfit is a tank top and loose pants, all in breathable, high-quality fabrics like linen, wool or cotton. And I always bring cosy socks for long flights.
“It’s the finer details that bring the whole look together and make it feel polished, so I love to elevate my travel outfit using jewellery. I really like the pieces from Michael Kors’ Empire collection – they’re the epitome of 'quiet luxury'. I always wear small earrings like these pavé empire logo earrings (so I can still wear my headphones and sleep in comfort) and a gold-tone watch (so I don’t miss my plane), stacked with empire logo bangles. Then, I’ll use a double chain necklace as more of a statement piece – it’s such an easy way to elevate a very simple look.”
DËNIS COLAK-TAYLOR
@denis
“For me, striking a balance between comfort and glamour is super important. I always wear yoga pants, a nice shirt or t-shirt and a chic coat or jacket, depending on where I’m heading. For this time of year, a leather trench is definitely a show piece and helps to pull the whole look together.
“Jewellery is such an important part of my daily look, and this doesn’t change when I’m flying. I like to wear dainty jewellery like this pretty silver chain that I can also wear throughout the trip. I've been loving mixing silver and gold jewellery lately, and I love the Michael Kors Empire bracelets I’m wearing here – I think they're quite bold and really elevate the whole look. I always take a pair of sunglasses, no matter the weather, as they bring that jetset aesthetic.”
ANN-KATHRIN GÖTZE
@annkathrin
“I feel more confident when I'm dressed well for a flight, because I’ve had many run-ins with business contacts at the airport or in the destination I'm arriving to. My go-to look is simple yet elegant: wide, loose-fit trousers, a classic top or sweater, and a blazer on top. I always wear layers so I don’t get cold, and when it’s a red eye flight, I'll take a fresh set of clothing to change into before touchdown.
“Jewellery and accessories always help to make my outfit look complete. I often travel in pieces that suit the destination I’m heading to – for example, in New York, I like to experiment with more extravagant jewellery, and for Paris I prefer subtle and fine jewellery. I adore my gold Michael Kors Empire double chain link necklace, as it’s such a statement piece. A bold necklace has the power to transform any look.”
Complete your travel wardrobe with the Michael Kors Empire jewellery collection