Hijab set to debut as British Airways revamps uniforms
The hijab leads a stunning overhaul of British Airways staff uniforms with a complete and wide-ranging collection to be released this summmer.
In a revamp that has been 20 years in coming, the British airline will see its staff switch from the conventional business suits and skirts to an array of dresses and jumpsuits, with its diverse female cabin crew now able to don a selection of long shirts or tunics and hijabs.
The airline's uniform overhaul is the result of a five-year project by British fashion designer Ozwald Boateng.
Delayed for two years due to the coronavirus outbreak, the new uniforms provide plenty of options.
A selection of tunics and headscarves has also been created for crew members. By summer, the airline's 30,000 front-line staff will be wearing new uniforms, starting with engineers and ground handlers.
British Airways chairman and chief executive Sean Doyle said the dress would be iconic for years to come.
"From the very beginning this step of changing uniforms is about our people. We want to create a collection of uniforms that people are proud to wear.
“With the help of over 1,500 volunteers, we are confident that we have delivered," he said.
While picking up new uniforms, employees will recycle or donate their old ones.
Meanwhile, about 90 percent of the material is a fabric blend made from recycled polyester.
"More than 1,500 colleagues across the airline took part in 50 workshops to help ensure the fit of the garments, from design workshops to prototype feedback and garment trials, helping to create iconic collections that will stand the test of time," said British Airways, in a statement.
