A Denim Twist on My Go-To Airport Uniform

I almost always travel in some version of the same airport outfit.

This trip was a little different.

I was flying from Raleigh to Chicago for a team offsite, and instead of packing my denim jacket, I decided to wear it. I knew I’d be reaching for it again that evening for dinner, and it seemed silly to waste the suitcase space. This was a trip where I truly was carrying on my suitcase.

Normally, though, you’ll find me wearing one of my travel blazers instead. I own several blazers made from lightweight, breathable travel fabrics that look a little more polished than denim while still being comfortable enough for a long travel day. They’re usually my first choice.

But this trip reminded me that sometimes it’s worth changing the formula when it makes packing a little easier.

The Pieces

The foundation of this outfit stayed exactly the same.

A simple white Trendy Queen V-neck tee.

My Anatomie Allie Hybrid Travel Pants.

White and black Veja sneakers.

The only thing that changed was swapping my usual blazer for the Liverpool denim jacket.

Why I Keep Reaching for the Anatomie Pants

I’ve probably worn these pants on more work trips than any other pair in my closet. I even bought a “back up” pair on Poshmark.

They’re one of those pieces that quietly earn their place because they never make me think about them. They’re breathable, they stretch when I’m sitting on a plane for hours, and they still look polished enough to walk straight into a meeting after I land.

One question I occasionally get is about the ankle zippers.

I’ve never had any issues wearing these through TSA. The zippers have never slowed me down or set off security.

The only thing I did differently on this trip was take off my jacket before going through the scanner. It was my first time wearing this particular denim jacket, and I didn’t know whether the metal buttons would attract any extra attention. Airports are already unpredictable enough—I didn’t need my outfit adding to the adventure.

My Go-To Travel Shoes

The Veja sneakers have become one of my favorite travel shoes.

They’re comfortable enough to walk long terminals, polished enough that I don’t feel underdressed when I land, and the white leather keeps the whole outfit feeling fresh and summery.

They’re one of those purchases that has paid for itself over and over again simply because I reach for them so often.

The Formula

One thing I’ve learned after years of work travel is that I don’t need ten different airport outfits.

I need one formula that works.

Comfortable travel pants.

A simple neutral tee.

A third layer that fits the trip.

Shoes I know I can comfortably walk miles in.

Whether that third layer is a travel blazer or, in this case, a denim jacket, the formula stays the same.

That’s really the philosophy behind Looks More Expensive.

I don’t buy pieces for one trip.

I buy pieces that earn their place over dozens of trips.

When you find clothes that are comfortable enough for a full travel day and polished enough that you can head straight to dinner or a meeting after you land, packing becomes a whole lot easier—and getting dressed becomes one less thing to think about. -LME

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