Cabin crew uniforms in recent years have become iconic and very much represent the
face of the airline and its all-important image. Uniforms are studied and tested vigorously to
make sure they meet the task at hand, but they also become instantly recognizable.
Famous fashion designers are often recruited to create the perfect look.
Today, we look at five of the nicest (and most distinctive!) cabin crew uniforms.
Of course, this list is subjective. So, if you disagree- or have others
you think should be on this list, do let us know by leaving a comment!
Airline #5: Emirates
This Emirates uniform shown here is a classic and is known especially for the beige and pinstripe
fabric with a dash of red. It’s also known for its famous red hat and white veil. This was launched
in 2009 and was unusually designed by an English uniform company, whereas most airlines choose
fashion designers. It was complex as Emirates at the time had 23,000 cabin crew to clothe.
The airline wanted a sharp, business-like look with sophistication and for the uniform to really
stand out at an airport. The design team observed cabin crew on a flight to New Zealand to really
understand how the fabric needed to be flexible yet sturdy to complete the tasks of the crew.
They also understood that the uniform needed to be well perceived
by the public. It was rolled out along with the new Airbus A380 fleet
and continues to be one of the most recognizable airline uniforms in the world.
#4: Singapore Airlines
Another classic cabin crew uniform - that of Singapore Airlines - is highly
significant to hospitality and culture in Asia and has not been changed since 1968!
It was designed by Pierre Balmain and is an ethnic style 'sarong kebaya'. The uniform still today
represents the 'Singapore Girl' and is extremely iconic. The different colors signify seniority:
A flight attendant wears the purple version, the lead flight attendant the emerald one, and the
chief flight attendant wears ruby. Meanwhile, the indigo version is worn by the inflight manager.
#3: Virgin Atlantic
In 2014, Virgin Atlantic decided on an environmentally friendly uniform
constructed from a fabric made from recycled plastic bottles.
Fashion designer Vivienne Westwood designed a glamorous and stylish uniform inspired by
French couture in the 1940s and with a nod to the tailoring of London's Savile Row.
It is the epitome of chic, featuring classic Westwood touches, and is very popular with
crews. Virgin Atlantic has always been at the forefront of uniform standards
and has made changes to their policies on make-up, tattoos, and females being able to wear trousers.
#2: Oman Air
Oman Air's latest uniform was launched in 2019 as part of their 'state of grace' campaign.
It is sophisticated and elegant, and the turquoise color represents the sea of Oman. The uniform is
well tailored and influenced by old-world glamour and charm. It is inspired by the rich colors
of the country and its culture and history and symbolizes the warmth and friendliness of Oman.
The male crew members and the cabin services director wear a slightly darker shade of teal.
Finally, top spot goes to Hainan Airlines.
One of the most stylish and stunning cabin crew uniforms of all time, this was launched at Paris
Couture Week in 2017. It was designed by Laurence Xu and combines traditional Chinese imagery with
contemporary design. The uniform combines the traditional Chinese 'cheongsam' dress with
the western modern suit and features clouds, Chinese motifs, and the mythical 'roc' bird.
So, there’s our list of cabin crew uniforms that we think are among the best in the world.
Do you agree or disagree? Let us know by leaving a comment!