what to wear to increase chances of an upgrade

Forget the hoodies, tracksuit bottoms and well-worn flipflops, airport fashion is an art form - just ask any D-List celebrity.

Now the fashion designer Carolina Herrera has weighed in, telling travelers to 'dress up' when they take a flight.

The septuagenarian has revealed that her biggest pet peeve is badly dressed people on aeroplanes, advising that an immaculate appearance is a surefire way to get preferential treatment by air stewards, like a seat upgrade.

Scroll down for video

Fashion designer Carolina Herrera has revealed her biggest fashion peeve is baldy dress airport travelers

In a new interview with the Wall Street Journal, she said: 'My fashion pet peeve is how people dress at the airport. It’s terrible.

'You know, if you dress up at the airport you will actually be taken care of perfectly. You’ll be the one who the stewards look after the most.'

One well-seasoned traveler revealed to Gwyneth Paltrow's Goop website last year that they had even spotted a message on a screen at check-in for Virgin airlines that read: 'Look for well-dressed people to upgrade'.

But what constitutes 'dressing up' and how can you look smart while still saying comfortable on a long-haul flight?

Here are key style points to follow when heading to the airport...

Avoid flip flops and trainers

Flip flops and trainers might be alright for someone who has bought a First Class ticket, but they aren't going to bag you an upgrade.

But that's not to say that comfort isn't possible when it comes to flight shoes.

Ballet shoes are a chic and comfortable option for women at airports, while men should opt for loafers. The slip-on nature means they can easily be removed on the flight, and while getting through security, and the leather material allows to feet to breathe.

A smart appearance at an airport check-in desk will increase your chances of an upgrade

Don't overload on jewellery

Wearing masses of jewellery might look elegant but it will become irritating as soon as you settle into your plane seat.

Instead, opt for a statement necklace that can jazz up any outfit.

Invest in an expensive shawl

Scarves and shawls are a lifesaver on planes, when harsh lighting and overactive air conditioning can quickly make a journey unbearable.

They can be used as an impromptu eye mask as well as a blanket during the flight.

A cashmere shawl can also make an inexpensive outfit of leggings and a long T-shirt look instantly sophisticated.

Victoria Beckham often changes out of her smart airport clothes once she has boarded a plane

Wear smart clothes for the airport and change into comfier items on the plane

If you really like to wear a tracksuit on the plane but still want to get a an upgrade, wear a smart outfit in the airport and bringing a change of clothes for the plane.

You wont be alone - many First Class passengers pack yoga leggings for the flight.

Even Victoria Beckham is known to remove her make-up and change into comfy clothing once she has boarded a flight.

Once they have allocated you a seat, they won;t move you back into cattle class if you crack out your jogging bottoms.

First Class is a world away from flying Economy, but by wearing smart clothes you might just get upgraded

Take a blazer in your hand luggage

A blazer can make most simple outfits instantly appear more formal.

For women, a knitted jacket will add a fashionable edge to a blouse and leggings, for a man, a lightweight sports jacket will transform a polo shirt and trousers.

Invest in decent hand luggage

You don't need to go designer when buying hand luggage, but a decent leather holdall or tote will set you apart from fellow passengers using their well-worn rucksacks.