These Airport Outfits Can Get You Bumped Up to Business Class

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(Image credit: Backgrid)

As it turns out, what you wear to the airport can actually lead to an upgrade on your flight. We’ve long heard the rumor, but it was recently confirmed when Who What Wear UK editor Emma Spedding reported on the matter. When she spoke with a cabin crew, they confirmed our suspicions that yes, what you wear on a flight can actually impact your upgrade status.

To spell it out a little more clearly, here’s what they told her. One airline attendant explained that when it comes to upgrades, dressing up “definitely helps your chances.” And then another detailed that “For an upgrade, it’s all about looking the part. Smart but understated. You should look like you travel often. But don’t be dripping in designer clothing. It helps; someone who is potentially due to get an upgrade can be knocked back if they aren’t dressed suitably.”

So if you’re wondering what you should skip for an upgrade? Leggings and casual outfits are on the list. If you want an upgrade, though, stick to outfits that are put-together and “smart”. These ones might get you bumped up to business class. Ahead, see some examples to try on your next flight.

Tailored separates

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(Image credit: Getty Images)

Follow Kendall Jenner’s lead and wear tailored separates. Add a sweater and sneakers to keep the look comfortable for travel.

A jumpsuit with heels

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(Image credit: Backgrid)

Jumpsuits are one of the standout silhouettes of the season, so why not wear one on your next flight? Rita Ora proves it’s a stylish way to show up to the airport.

Jeans and a polished top

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Elle Fanning’s paired sophisticated jeans with a puff-sleeve top, proving that denim can look pulled together for a flight.

A pantsuit

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(Image credit: Getty Images)

Pantsuits have been bubbling up everywhere over the last year, and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley demonstrates how to make it work when you’re hopping on a plane.

Well, I certainly know that I’ll be dressing up next time I head to the airport.

Associate Director, Special Projects

Kristen Nichols is the Associate Director, Special Projects at Who What Wear with over a decade of experience in fashion, editorial, and publishing. She oversees luxury content and wedding features, and covers fashion within the luxury market, runway reporting, shopping features, trends, and interviews with leading industry experts. She also contributes to podcast recordings, social media, and branded content initiatives. Kristen has worked with brands including Prada, Chanel, MyTheresa, and Luisa Via Roma, and rising designers such as Refine and Tove, and her style has been featured in publications including Vogue.com, Vogue France, WWD, and the CFDA. Before Who What Wear, Kristen began her career at Rodarte, where she worked on assistant styling, photo shoots, and runway shows, and at Allure, where she moved into print and digital editorial. She graduated from the University of Southern California, where she studied art history and business, and currently lives in New York.