Want to look like an airport celebrity? You know, the ones who always make the best dressed list even when they’re flying into LAX at 6am. Let’s face it, most of us don’t exactly step off a plane looking like we’re about to step onto a runway (no pun intended) like many of the most glamorous celebs seem to do. But we can try.

It’s a rare occurrence to touch down with not a hair out of place, a perfect face of makeup and clean, crisp clothes. Instead, our hair is all a mess, our makeup’s run and our outfits are, well, a bit wrinkled to say the least. Looking like one of those airport celebrities seems a lot more appealing. 

Here are some tips to help you look paparazzi ready next time you travel.

5 Tips to Look Like an Airport Celebrity When You Travel

Apply a tinted moisturizer for a gorgeous glow

When you’re traveling long-haul, it’s typically best to avoid the foundation. It’ll only melt if it’s hot, rub off if you fall asleep and generally make a mess. Ew! What you should do, however, is apply an ever-so-slightly tinted moisturizer—which will keep your skin hydrated and give it a bit of colour.

Wear natural fibres to stay comfy

When you’re traveling, it’s best to wear natural fibres, like cotton and linen. Not only are they breathable, so there’s little risk of you sweating excessively or feeling uncomfortable, but they also look more expensive, even when you’re just wearing the basics. You should also always carry a long cashmere cardigan or sweater with you. This might seem unnecessary, but cashmere hardly wrinkles, so you can use it to cover up your outfit if it gets a bit scrunched up on the trip.

Invest in sleek, quality luggage

You rarely see the likes of Scarlett Johansson or Taylor Swift walking through the airport with an old battered suitcase that’s being held together with duct tape. That just isn’t classy at all. Which is why you should ideally invest in the best hardside carry on and suitcase you can afford. The hard case will protect your stuff like no other. An added bonus: The quality and design of, say, a Delsey luggage case will definitely boost your style credentials.

Braid your hair or tie it back

If you want to avoid the Bride of Frankenstein look when you step off the plane, learn how to do a pretty fishtail braid or any other braid that you love. Before your flight, braid your hair nice and tight. Braids, when done properly always look good and no matter whether you sleep on them or not, they still look pretty good when you get up. That’s why you see so many celebs sporting braids at the airport.

Don’t forget your chic pair of sunglasses

Conditions on the average plane (if you’re not lucky enough for first class) aren’t exactly ideal. So, it’s not surprising that many of us find it impossible to get beauty sleep when we’re flying long-haul. That can result in some pretty bad panda eyes, and bags the sizes of basketballs. But fear not, because as long as you have your trusty pair of Ray-Bans in your hand luggage, you can disguise a multitude of sins and double your glam quota.

Do you always travel in style like an airport celebrity? What are your top tips for looking as good as celebrities when you step off a flight? Tweet me @ladylikeleopard.

All photos courtesy of Elle Magazine.