How to Design Air-Hostess Uniforms

Savvy designers know that uniforms must be more than a fashion statement

Ever marvel at the way air hostesses tackle meal preparation and serving duties in high heels at 37,000 feet? Practice and preparation. And the understanding that a flight attendant does more than dole out cocktails and sleeves of peanuts; he or she dresses to represent professionalism, confidence and safety---qualities passengers look for when they're suspended above the clouds. Fully comprehend that philosophy when you start designing flight uniforms, and you'll be off to a fashion- forward start.

Things You'll Need

• Design degree
• Psychology classes
• Design skills
• Fabric know-how

Instructions

1. Obtain a degree in fashion design from a university or college that offers the most comprehensive curricula you can afford. Make it a design school if you can afford the tab. Take as many classes in human psychology as your schedule allows, in addition to sketching, pattern-making, draping, sewing, clothing construction and fashion theory.

2. Visit designers' studios, manufacturing plants and seamstress shops to get a bird's-eye view of how air-hostess and flight- attendant uniforms are designed, fitted and fabricated. Query designers and seamstresses about the difference between designing for the high-fashion and work-clothing markets. Get the kind of advice you won't find in textbooks to accompany your design education.

3. Become an expert on the aviation industry as it relates to the history of flight uniforms. Locate a copy of Keith Lovegrove's book about airline-uniform design to understand how and why flight-attendant uniforms have evolved (find link below). Compare styles, colors, fabrics and other unique characteristics of these uniforms as they relate to the dramatic changes in commercial-airline etiquette over time.

4. Book appointments with flight attendants to query them on their current uniforms, and find out what they wish to see in re-tailored designs. Accompany men and women on long- and short-range flights, if airline or cargo lines permit, to observe how their clothing functions as they go about doing their jobs within the confines of an airplane.

5. Educate yourself on the subject of fabric as it relates to flight-attendant uniforms. Of particular note, pay attention to the way fabrics bend, stretch and "give" as air hostesses go about their onboard tasks. Learn all you can about wrinkle-free properties in durable cloth, and investigate new types of finishes used on fabric to repel stains and to keep garments looking fresh for extended periods of time.

6. Delve into the psychology of color. Find out why airlines choose blue over other hues, which shades of brown and green convey tranquillity and reassurance, and when touches of red to match a corporate logo are entirely appropriate.

7. Discover the distinct balance between trends and utility so you'll be able to help customers eschew ho-hum uniform design in favor of tasteful, flattering separates that complement men and women. Be aware of the importance a designer must place on merging corporate-brand identity with flyer expectation, and you'll have an easier time churning out the uniform designs that will endear you to decision makers seeking the designer capable of giving the airline it's newest look.

References

• Keith Lovegrove book
• Santini Uniforms
• Cintas uniform site