The Art of Airport Style: Quince’s Winter Travel Essentials
For travelers who want to stay comfortable and stylish during long-haul flights, the right wardrobe is essential. As a travel writer who has perfected the art of airport fashion, I’ve discovered that high-quality, “quiet luxury” pieces are the key to surviving the challenges of air travel. These items not only look expensive but also offer practicality and comfort, making them ideal for navigating from freezing departure gates to humid tropical destinations.
One brand that has become a go-to for my winter travel needs is Quince. Their collection of cashmere and performance fabrics provides the perfect balance between style and functionality. Here are some of the pieces currently in my regular rotation that make “airport style” feel effortless.
SuperSoft Fleece Collection
If you want to walk off a plane looking pulled together but feeling like you’re in pajamas, theSuperSoft Fleece Hoodieand matchingCropped Wide-Leg Pantsare the gold standard. The fabric—a blend of Tencel Modal and spandex—is remarkably buttery and lightweight, making it ideal for layering. I recently wore this set from a chilly morning in Boston to a sun-drenched Florida airport and stayed perfectly comfortable the entire time. The cropped length of the pants is particularly practical; I pair them with wool socks for the flight and swap those for sandals the moment we land.
Elevated Mongolian Cashmere
For those who prefer a “Quiet Luxury” aesthetic, Quince’s Grade-A Mongolian cashmere has become a travel staple. TheFull Hoodie Zipand matchingCashmere Sweatpantscreate a look that feels very “Loro Piana” but at a fraction of the cost. The weave is dense and substantial, which helps it resist pilling—a common heartbreak with travel knits.
High-Performance Flowknit Sets
When I need my plane outfit to work double-duty, I reach for theFlowknit Pullover HoodieandMidrise Joggers. Made from a sustainable, moisture-wicking poly blend, this set is breathable enough for a dash through the terminal but sleek enough to wear to the hotel gym once you arrive. The thumb-holes and thick drawstrings give it a high-end athleisure feel that holds its shape much better than cheaper jersey alternatives.
The Cold-Weather Specialist
For truly frigid flights where the cabin draft is relentless, theWhistler Midrise Thermal Joggersare a lifesaver. They feature a sturdy, wind-resistant outer shell with a brushed, cozy interior that traps heat without feeling bulky. I love pairing these with theOversized Cashmere Crewneckfor a “slouchy-chic” look that provides maximum warmth on overnight hauls.
The “Old Money” Airport Essential
Thispolois the ultimate “old money” piece for your winter travel wardrobe. It strikes that elusive balance between a structured, professional look and the cloud-like comfort of Grade-A Mongolian cashmere. It’s breathable enough for a stuffy cabin but looks sharp enough to wear straight to a lunch meeting or a resort dinner upon landing. For a high-low winter look, I love pairing this refined knit with the rugged, cozy Whistler thermal joggers.
The Lightweight Legend
As one of Quince’s biggest bestsellers, this crewneck is a dream for a streamlined carry-on. It provides warmth without the bulk, making it a perfect base layer. I love the “Varsity Red” for a pop of color, but I also frequently use it as a chic substitute for a scarf when the overhead air gets too crisp.
The Polished Finisher
Finally, for the traveler who needs to head straight from the runway to a meeting or dinner, theScuba Captain’s Convertible Blazeris a game-changer. Despite its structured, military-inspired look—complete with gold buttons and a double-breasted cut—it’s made from a stretchy, wrinkle-free scuba fabric that’s surprisingly comfy. You can toss it over a hoodie on the plane, and it will emerge from your seat looking crisp and completely unbothered.
