When it comes to long flights, comfort typically takes precedence, with a matching set of sweats and your favorite sneakers being the go-to choice. While we’re all about keeping it easy, for celebrities — especially in the K-Pop world — the airport isn’t a place to simply blend in. For these idols, the terminal becomes a stage where casual cool seamlessly intersects with fashion. Instead of just getting from point A to B, idols treat the terminal like a runway, with paparazzi eagerly waiting to snap their effortlessly laid-out outfits.
If you’ve ever aspired to turn heads with your travel attire, why not draw inspiration from their sartorial playbook? Here are eight essential staples to help you recreate the airport style of K-Pop idols.
Baseball Caps
Baseball caps are a timeless staple that add a cool, laid-back look to any airport outfit. Seen on RIIZE’s Shotaro and NewJeans’ Hyein, these caps effortlessly elevate their travel looks with a touch of street style. They’re perfect for when you want to go incognito while still turning heads.
Cardigans and Sweaters
Take a page from the fashion playbook of NewJeans’ Haerin and ENHYPEN’s Jake, who showcase how these essentials can transform travel attire into something effortlessly stylish. These pieces not only keep you warm during those long airport waits, but also elevate your look from casual to ‘I could be on a runway, but I’m just casually boarding my flight.’
Crossbody Bags
Crossbody bags are not just practical — they’re a stylish must-have for your airport outfit. BTS’ Suga and J-Hope showcase how these bags balance functionality and flair effortlessly. Worn either over your shoulder or across your body, a crossbody bag keeps your essentials close and your hands free as you breeze through terminals.
Plus, it adds a sophisticated edge to your look, making it the perfect choice for jet-setting in style.
Denim Jacket
No wardrobe is ever complete without some form of denim. Just like BTS’ Jungkook, who effortlessly pairs his denim with a simple tee or wears it as stylish bottoms, incorporating denim into your airport look is essential. This classic choice not only helps you achieve that K-Pop-inspired style but is also comfortable enough to keep you warm during colder flights.
To find the perfect denim pieces, check out Levi’s or Calvin Klein for options that blend style and comfort seamlessly.
Leather Jacket
Just like denim, a leather jacket is a must-have for your outfit lineup. As seen on BLACKPINK’s Jisoo and Rosé, this staple can effortlessly add an edge to your look in seconds — perfect for those moments when you’re racing to the airport but still want to look flawlessly put-together. Whether you’re hopping on a short flight or settling in for a long haul, a leather jacket ensures you’re always fashionably ahead, even at the terminal.
Matching Two-Piece or Co-Ord Sets
Wherever you are in the world, matching two-piece or co-ord sets are a total game-changer for your wardrobe. These pieces create a look that’s both polished and put-together, making it easy to stay stylish with minimal effort. Take a cue from TWICE’s Dahyun, who nailed the airport look in coordinating sets that perfectly blended sophistication with casual ease. With co-ord sets, you’ll always look effortlessly chic, no matter where your travels take you.
Sunglasses
On top of Jennie Kim’s impressive repertoire — solids vocals, sharp raps, powerful performances — she’s also iconic for her style staple: sunglasses. Whether she’s at rehearsals or soundchecks, she never leaves this signature accessory behind, even at the airport. Want to channel her airport chic? Look no further than Gentle Monster — Jennie’s got her own Jentle Monster line, after all.
Tailored Blazer
You’ll find no shortage of traveling businessmen at the airport, but not many dressed as stylishly as SEVENTEEN’s Mingyu in tailored blazers. Whether he’s pairing it with trousers or dressing it down with a white tee and denim, Mingyu has a fail-proof formula for looking polished. Check out tailored blazers at Mango or Topshop — because who says you can’t be runway-ready at 30,000 feet?