If your air hostess seem better suited to a fashion runway than an airport runway, it may be because her uniform has a designer label.
Recently, there’s been a rash of cabin crew going couture. Last month, Japanese carrier Al Nippon Airways tapped Prabal Gurung — whose designs have graced the backs of celebrities ranging from Michelle Obama to Lady Gaga — to revitalize the staff apparel. Vivienne Westwood is currently doing the same for Virgin Atlantic (stewardesses will start wearing the uniforms on trial next month).
“It could have something to do with the changing of the airline industry. Everyone is having to approach the business differently, and everyone is having to put an emphasis on look,” says Australian designer Martin Grant, who in addition to clothing the likes of Emma Stone and Heidi Klum crafted the new uniforms for Qantas Airways last April.
High-end airlines put an emphasis on excellence, Grant says, and Qantas is no different.
“They apply the principle to everything: the food, the design of the interiors, the lounges. It’s the same with the uniforms,” he explains.
The updated outfits feature a haute take on Qantas’ red triangle logo. Grant referenced the graphic in the uniform tops, which are navy blue with ruby red and fuchsia pink diagonal stripes across the shoulder.
“The uniforms have to be identifiable and easily seen. You want to be able to see from afar the staff you’re looking for. When you’re running around an airport, you’re constantly looking for the logo of the aircraft,” he says.
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