Flying from the UAE? Don’t wear these 4 things on your flight—regret hits at 35,000 feet

Master the art of airport outfits with comfort and style

Last updated:
Lakshana N Palat, Assistant Features Editor
2 MIN READ
For starters: Don't wear skinny jeans. Go for breathable, easy, loose outfits.
For starters: Don't wear skinny jeans. Go for breathable, easy, loose outfits.
Shutterstock

Those jeans do look good, but definitely not on a flight.
Trust us.

Travelling out of the UAE this summer? Your bags are packed, boarding pass is downloaded, and you’re ready to go. But before you step into the airport, double-check your outfit.

So, after our conversations with various travellers, here’s our guide on what you should do.

What to wear: Comfort, first

Breathable, soft fabrics

Consider cotton, bamboo, or modal. These will save you from the sweaty back drama that synthetic fabrics guarantee the moment your plane starts boarding.

Matching loungewear or co-ords

There’s something powerful about a coordinated airport outfit. They’re comfy, and you know you’ll survive the next 8 hours with grace.

Go for neutral tones to look effortless rather than effortful.

A large scarf or pashmina

This isn't just for modesty or TikTok airport aesthetics. It doubles as a blanket, a pillow, or a life-saver when the cabin temperature dips to Arctic levels mid-flight.

Compression socks

These are for everyone, and they will help you on the flight. They help prevent swelling and make it feel like your feet still exist after a night in the air.

Slip-on shoes

Security checks are no place for a lace-up battle. A pair of loafers or clean trainers keeps things stylish while saving time, and your dignity.

What not to wear: Learn from the strugglers

Skin-tight jeans

You may look good boarding, but no one looks good walking stiff-legged after six hours in denim prison. If you must do jeans, make sure they have stretch and forgiveness built in.

Heels

Yes, even kitten heels. Unless you’re aiming for a twisted ankle during turbulence or enjoy standing awkwardly at passport control, leave the stilettos for post-flight.

Heavy jewellery

Those necklaces and earrings will always look stunning. But they don’t feel great on the flight. Nothing slows you down like a stack of bangles and layered necklaces at security. Worse, they will dig into you while you nap in your economy seat. Glam is great, until you’re tangled mid-flight and silently regretting your entire aesthetic.

Overpowering perfumes

The cabin is a confined space. One strong oud or musk and your seatmate will either despise you or faint. A light, clean or citrius-sy scent or even just a good body lotion will do the job without announcing your presence in Row 23.

Bonus boarding wisdom

  • Layer up. The UAE may be 42 degrees when you leave, but your destination (or your plane’s AC) might not agree.

  • Moisturise. Cabin air is dry.

  • Sunglasses and a baseball cap are underrated for red-eye flights, groggy layovers, or just not being ready to make eye contact with humanity.

Travelling isn’t just about the destination. It’s about surviving the journey in one piece and looking like you didn’t try too hard doing it. So wear what feels good, moves well, and lets you glide through the airport with style and sanity intact.

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