Vivienne Westwood to design airline uniforms
Virgin Atlantic has engaged eccentric British designer Vivienne Westwood to turn its polyester uniforms into the most glamourous in the sky.
The airline said it had entered into a long-term partnership which will see a total re-design of its iconic red uniform – partly using recycled polyester yarn from plastic bottles.
"With original design and sustainability being vital factors to both Richard Branson and Vivienne Westwood, this project aims to bring these ideals together in an exciting and innovative collaboration.
"For the new uniforms, Vivienne Westwood wanted to create a futuristic look which references her enduring interest in 40’s French couture cutting techniques as well as the Savile Row tailoring heritage," said Virigin.
"The new designs will capture the glamour and style that the Virgin Atlantic cabin crew are renowned for."
The existing uniform has been around for 10 years and boss Richard Branson said it had been copied by others.
Westwood said: "My clothes have always got a very strong dynamic rapport with the body – they are very body conscious, they help you to look glamorous, more hourglass, more woman.
"I design things to help people to hopefully express their personality. I am always trying to find fabrics that are more friendly to the environment – working with Virgin Atlantic they managed to research into this and find more eco fabrics."
Passengers will get a peek of the new uniforms from July when crew and ground staff will trial them on the ground and on the aircraft. Crew will provide feedback on the design, practicality and wearability so tweaks can be made ahead of the full launch in 2014.
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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