Let’s talk about something I have a lot of opinions on: airport outfits. Specifically, shorts on a plane.

I’m not here to judge… but if you’ve ever wondered whether it’s okay to wear shorts on a flight, let me give you my very biased, completely personal take: I don’t do it. Ever. And honestly? I don’t recommend it.

Let’s break it down.

1. Planes Are Basically Flying Refrigerators

Can we all agree that airplane cabins are either freezing cold or weirdly hot and stale…there is no in-between. And you won’t know which version of hell you’re getting until it’s too late.

Wearing shorts? That’s a gamble I’m not willing to take. I like to keep my legs at a reasonable temperature, thank you very much and I’m not about to be huddled under the world’s thinnest airline blanket regretting all my life choices.

2. Airplane Seats Are… Not Exactly Sanitary

Let’s be real. Those seats are covered in years of travel trauma. I don’t care how “deep cleaned” they claim the plane is — it’s giving mystery crumbs and recycled air energy.

And I just can’t bring myself to press my bare legs against a seat that’s been touched by thousands of strangers and their questionable shorts before me. If you think about it too hard, it just feels wrong and gross.

3. There’s Something About a Travel Outfit That Just Hits Different

I love a good airport outfit moment. Give me a relaxed linen pant, a matching set, or a lightweight jogger with a cute sneaker. Chic, comfy, and ready for a surprise upgrade.

Shorts? Not really giving that energy. To me, they feel too casual — like you accidentally wandered onto the plane from a pool party. Unless you’re flying from Ibiza to Mykonos (in which case, can I come?), maybe give the shorty shorts a rest.

4. BUT — I Get It

Okay, in fairness, I do understand the appeal. You’re heading somewhere tropical, your legs are tan, you want to feel breezy and unbothered. Maybe your flight is short, or maybe you’re running late and it’s what was clean. Been there.

If you must wear shorts, at least make them longer, structured, or tailored, and layer with an oversized sweatshirt or jacket so you don’t end up shivering at 30,000 feet. Basically, if you wouldn’t wear them to brunch, don’t wear them to board a Boeing.

Final Verdict?

Shorts on a plane = hard pass for me.

But if you absolutely insist? You better bring a blanket, wipe that seat down, and mentally prepare for some cold kneecaps.

Travel chic is a mindset, and in my mind, that includes pants.

Sorry not sorry.

– Stephanie 💼✈️

@stephanie__gill