Shaheer Ahmed
British Airways (BA) has launched its new uniform to its staff, designed by renowned Savile Row fashion designer and tailor Ozwald Boateng, marking the first major makeover of the BA uniform in nearly two decades.
The updated collection features tailored three-piece suits for men and a variety of alternatives for ladies, including a trendy jumpsuit, a first for the airline.
There are also allowances for a tunic and a hijab, to meet the different needs of the employees. Engineer and ground handler feedback resulted in design improvements that included features such as easily accessible tool compartments and touchscreen technology fabric in gloves.
While the typical BA colours remain, the updated line incorporates navy blue and red hues. This colour palette is used in both men’s tailored suits and women’s dresses, skirts, trousers, and modern jumpsuits. The pattern of the uniform provides a dynamic element, inspired by the aerodynamic movement of air over a plane’s wing. The hijab was created with comfort and convenience in mind, while also keeping cultural and religious sensitivities in mind.
Horsies in jumpsuits?!? 😳 @british_airways new uniform by Ozwald Boateng pic.twitter.com/u4qZzZJimB
— Pam Ann (@pamannairbitch) January 6, 2023
As employees begin to wear the new uniform, they will return their previous Julien MacDonald garments, which will either be donated to charity or recycled to create items such as toys and tablet holders. Some pieces will also be preserved in the airline’s museum collection.
The new uniforms have been predominantly crafted from sustainable fabrics, including recycled polyester, aligning with BA’s commitment to a better world. The airline ensured that only manufacturers affiliated with the Better Cotton Initiative, a sustainability enterprise, were engaged as part of their sustainable practices.
