The 10 most stylish airline uniforms
In the world of aviation, cabin crew uniforms are an important calling card for airlines and reflect their identity and values. In this blog, we list the 10 most stylish uniforms of airlines worldwide. From the clean lines and luxurious details of Emirates to the regal flair of KLM, each uniform tells its own story of fashion, tradition and innovation.
Number 1: Emirates' stringent appearance requirements
The Emirates flight crew always looks tremendously well-groomed. Not only do they wear beautiful uniforms, but the flight attendants are also required to adhere to a certain makeup look and hairstyle. The Emirates uniform, designed by British fashion house Simon Jersey , is known for its clean lines, deep blue color and gold accents. It has a modern look and is often praised for its elegance and professionalism.
Fun fact: according to Emirates cabin crew, it takes them about 60 minutes to achieve the desired, but also demanded, effect to get to work. All these demands do ensure that Emirates' crew is known as one of the most stylish in the world.
Photo source: Emirates
Number 2: Pierre Balmain designs for Singapore Airlines
Singapore Airlines is known for its sophisticated uniforms, designed by Pierre Balmain in 1968 and later updated by multiple designers. The uniforms have a timeless design and are characterized by their sleek silhouettes and rich colors. The famous uniform has hardly changed over all the years. A little tweaking here and there but otherwise no major changes have been made. Therefore, this uniform is perhaps the most famous uniform of all airlines.
Photo source: Singapore Airlines
Number 3: Arabic touch for Qatar Airways crew
Qatar Airways' uniform, designed by Olino, is elegant and contemporary. The uniform combines traditional elements with modern details, such as the distinctive burgundy color and Arabic influences.
Photo source: Qatar Airways
Number 4: Italian designs for Etihad Airways crew
Etihad Airways' uniform, designed by Ettore Bilotta, is notable for its modern cut and luxurious look. The uniform has clean lines and contrasting colors, giving it a contemporary and stylish look.
Photo source: Etihad Airways
Number 5: Air France's stylish crew
Air France's flight crew knows no better than that their uniforms are designed by well-known, often French, designers, As a result, Air France's uniforms have long been considered some of the most unique uniforms in aviation. After Balenciaga and Dior were previously allowed to design the uniforms for Air France, Christian Lacroix was subsequently given the request from Air France. The contemporary uniform is especially recognizable by the red gauntlets and the red belt with bow tie. A combination of classic elegance with contemporary flair!
Photo source: Air France
Number 6: Virgin Atlantic's eco-friendly uniforms
Virgin Atlantic's flight crew wears a uniform designed by ' Vivienne Westwood'. Virgin Atlantic wanted to create a new uniform where eco-friendliness and sustainability were paramount. In the uniforms you can trace the French Couture from 1940. The jackets for ladies are the highlight of the uniform though, and exude a lot of class. The uniforms have an edgy and contemporary look, with striking details such as the red collars and striped ties.
Photo source: Virgin Atlantic
Number 7: The colorful uniform of Thai Airways
Designed by Prabal Gurung, Thai Airways' uniform is a blend of traditional Thai elements and contemporary style. With flowing lines, vibrant colors and elegant details, the uniform exudes the warm hospitality Thailand is known for.
Number 8: Garuda Indonesia's crew: traditional and striking
Since 2010, Garuda Indonesia's crew also wears a 'kebaya sarong'. Designed by a well-known Indonesian designer, this traditional uniform was created in a number of different and eye-catching colors. The crew personnel themselves are very pleased with their uniform. Not only is it very stylish but they are proud to wear a traditional uniform that shows where they come from.
Photo source: Garuda Indonesia
Number 9: Turkish Airlines: where rich culture comes together in the uniform
Turkish Airlines' uniform, designed by Ettore Bilotta, combines modern style with traditional Turkish influences. With rich dark red colors, striking prints and refined details, the uniform reflects the rich culture and hospitality of Turkey.
Photo source: Turkish Airlines
Number 10: KLM is flying in fashion
The KLM uniform, designed by Mart Visser, exudes royal elegance and modern flair. With its distinctive KLM blue color, tribute to the Dutch royal family, it stands for reliability and quality. The female uniform consists of a skirt or pants, a jacket, a white blouse and a striking blue scarf, while men wear a clean-cut suit with a white shirt and tie. It exudes pride and belonging, perfectly reflecting KLM's core values: quality, hospitality and professionalism.
Photo source: KLM
Uniforms are much more than workwear for cabin crew; they are an essential part of airlines' brand identity and a visual symbol of their values and traditions. From the sophisticated creations of famous designers to the thoughtful details that combine comfort and elegance, each uniform tells a unique story. These ten airlines not only have an eye for style, but also understand the importance of leaving a lasting impression on their passengers. Whether you're an avid (business) traveler or just a lover of fashion, these airlines' stylish uniforms make every flight a little more special!
Update: This blog first appeared on March 15, 2019 and was updated with new information on May 10, 2024.
