This article first appeared on www.vanitystories.com. Click here for the original and featured products. Courtesy of Abigail Kussow.

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As I told a dear friend of mine not too long ago, I think I’m in love with airports. Pause. I know how crazy this statement makes me seem, but as a lover of all things travel and comfy-cozy attire, the airport just does it for me.  

Question: Do I exude the same golden-retriever energy for traveling regardless of the mode of transport? 

Answer: Pretty much. My randomly specific favorite feeling is gearing up for a journey at the crack of dawn…like the pre-coffee-pick-up portion of the expedition. The “I’ve still got my curlers in, and half of the crew is yawning their way to the car” period. I absolutely live for it. 

With that solid opening admission that I am a fashion-conscious early bird that swoons over airport lounge life in mind, I think it’s safe to say that I have become quite the expert in constructing relaxed-chic airport outfits. For all of you soon-to-be fliers heading home for the holidays, this one’s for you. 

Operation Look Cute, But Don’t Suffer For It
I am not sure how long athleisure is going to be around for (for my sanity, I hope forever), but while it’s dominating the capsule wardrobe scene, by all means embrace it.

A matching set will boost you from a 2 to a 10 on the style meter, and like a school uniform, picking it out and putting it on takes zero effort. Because you are matching colors, one decision influences the other. I always keep a chocolate or stone grey top-and-bottom pairing at the ready, but recently I have been leaning heavily into the lighter side of the color wheel. A soft green, powder blue or even white for the bold few can brighten up your look and help you stand-out in a crowd. 

For me, flare-leg yoga pants are a staple for the airport. They stretch and sinch in all the right places and — with the right brand — allow you to feel expensive without the discomfort. They are made for exercise and lounging; what could be more appropriate for the occasion? 

Team Hoodie Vs. Team Coat
Whether you are feeling like donning an oversized crewneck or adding a loose-fitting coat, just remember that you might get hot as much as cold, either on the plane, or in the common areas of the airport.

VS rule of thumb: Is it easy to slip on and take off? If yes, you’re good to go. If not, you might want to reconsider. 

Shoes Made For Walking
This is a no-brainer. You know the age-old saying, thou that prioritizist the footist, art winning at life … ist.   

Don’t try to impress anyone with your platform boots, or wedge-sneaker situation. If you can pull those off, you have my utmost respect and should really get a medal for that, but now is not the time.

Focus. Eyes on the prize. We want secure, we want comfy and we will achieve both with a reliable set of sneakers, slides or the holy grail of Winter 2022 footwear…the shepherd slipper. 

Speed Round: Accessories to Grab

• Chapstick
• Oil absorbing sheets 
• Hair ties/ something to put your hair back 

Things I Avoid Like The Plague 

• Jeans
• Heels/ Chunky Boots
• Constricting instead of cozy jackets/coats (Drop. The. Leather)