For years, airport fashion followed a predictable formula: oversized hoodies, shapeless tracksuits and runners best reserved for the gym.
But as Australian travellers flock to Europe to escape the chill and soak up the summer sun, they’re ditching the tired travel uniform for something far more polished and practical.
The rise of ‘athleisure’ marks a new era in airport fashion, where style and practicality go hand-in-hand, proving that comfort and style no longer have to be mutually exclusive.
“Today’s travellers are looking for more than just comfort, they want pieces that move with them and look good doing it,” says Jessica.
“At Halara, we’re seeing a real shift towards functional fashion that doesn’t compromise on style and that’s exactly what modern travel fashion is all about.”
The New Look Of Long-Haul Travel
Let’s face it, long-haul flights are tough on the body.
Cramped cabins, dry air and disrupted sleep leave even the most seasoned traveller feeling worse for wear – the last thing anyone needs is restrictive clothing adding to the discomfort.
This is where athleisure truly shines. With breathable fabrics and stretch, these pieces are made for comfort, whether you’re stretching mid-flight or dashing for a connecting train.
The bulky tracksuit travel uniform has made way for lighter, smarter travel wardrobes.
Travellers can now pack light with multi-purpose pieces, such as wide-leg trousers that work for sightseeing or dinner, tank tops that double as workout wear and stretchy shorts and jeans, like Halara’s Flex™ denim range.
Why Athleisure Is Dominating Euro-Summer Suitcases
European summers demand versatility. From hot afternoons in Paris to breezy evenings on the Amalfi Coast, staying stylish comes down to packing pieces that adapt with your travels.
In recent years, athleisure has evolved into a bona fide travel essential and it’s not hard to see why, striking the perfect balance between comfort and style.
With more travellers adopting a ‘carry-on only’ mindset, the demand for high-rotation wardrobe staples is on the rise.
Sustainability is playing a major role, too, as frequent flyers are thinking smarter about what they pack, opting to re-wear key items and invest in quality clothing that lasts beyond a single trip.
Packing Essentials To Maximise Your Wardrobe
If you’re heading off on a European adventure, consider these hero pieces to build your wardrobe around:
# Matching sets: wear them together or separately to create multiple looks with minimal effort.
# Breathable layers: a cropped hoodie or lightweight zip-up jacket is ideal for unpredictable weather, cool plane cabins or air-conditioned museums.
# Day-to-night dresses: look for wrinkle-resistant fabrics in neutral colours that can be easily styled up or down.
# Supportive footwear: fashionable sneakers and sturdy sandals with good arch support will keep you comfortable all day.
# Multi-functional bottoms: leggings, shorts or skorts with hidden pockets offer practicality without sacrificing style.
Don’t underestimate the power of a well-packed carry-on, either. Including one or two versatile outfits in your hand luggage can be a game changer if your checked bag goes astray or if your plans shift.
