Places like the airport are just known for the chaos that it brings. Yet, the least glamourous place somehow takes the spot for some of the biggest fashion stories.
When did simply getting on a flight turn into a fashion moment? From sunglasses, oversized hoodies, and sleek buns to faux/fur earmuffs, celebrity airport photos have their own side of TikTok. One such example is Hailey Beiber, whose casual looks; oversized layers or coordinated tracksuits and sneakers, have consistently been picked up by fashion media as a ‘deliberate but effortless’ look. Other stories include:
Margot Robbie: the ‘practical but stylish’ look
Her April 2026 look travelling from London to Australia particularly piqued interest. The black Bermuda shorts, oversized long sleeve top and Alaïa ballet flats were such a hot topic of discussion that Condé Nast Traveller actually wrote about how to recreate the effortless look.
Victoria and David Beckham: the OGs
Their photos from the 1990s and 2000s set the stage, largely contributing to the celebrity fashion culture. Their 1997 Heathrow photos reveal Victoria Beckham in a brown top and skirt, accessorised with tiny sunglasses and wedges, while David sported an all-black look. British Vogue themselves commented on the fashion spectacle, noting Victoria’s approach as ‘fashion-forward’.
LISA from BLACKPINK: Where Street style meets luxury
Who doesn’t know LISA, the K-pop icon that has left us speechless countless times?
LISA’s outfits showcase the merge between casual and luxury fashion; her appearances in statement designer pieces, trendy accessories and relaxed streetwear prove that airport outfits can become a showcase for high-end luxury brands as well as contemporary fashion!
Back in October 2025, her Incheon airport look bought together a Guest in Residence knit set and Jacquemus x Nike sneakers. In my opinion, the most interesting take from this is her ability to make wearable and comfortable combinations while still representing her status as a global icon.
From low-quality captures to social media inspiration?
Part of the credit surely should be given to platforms like TikTok, Pinterest and Instagram; which makes these events much easier to follow and recreate.
In the span of an hour, a single iconic look can be scrutinized and broken down into how-to tutorials and hot topics of discussion, transforming airport fashion into a driver of emerging trends.
A last-minute decision or a carefully curated look?
Despite the illusion of effortlessness, these outfits are not as spontaneous as some would think… Travel wardrobes are carefully curated by personal stylists, maximising impact while showcasing each celebrity’s individual image.
This brings forward an important point: Can these looks really be called effortless if they were styled to appear that way? To be
The airport is the new runway
To wrap this up, the appeal of airport fashion lies in the fact that fashion doesn’t have to be expressed in glamorous ways or in glamourous occasions, but rather in an intentional setting. So, does this question really have an answer? When DID the airport become a runway?