Iconic Design
Airlines are under a great deal of pressure to keep their uniform modern and newsworthy, and today we see many showstopping ensembles gracing airport terminals. As many airlines scramble to have their uniforms overhauled by top fashion designers, Emirates have stayed true to its signature style for almost four decades.
Although the Emirates uniform has been refreshed three times since its original design in 1985, those updates are often so subtle that those outside the industry may not notice any discernible difference. Despite this, the uniform is often regarded one of the best in the industry: A style icon that many aspire to wear.
Not merely a fashion statement, its look is classic, timeless, sophisticated, and universally flattering, capturing not only the essence of the Emirates brand, it is also symbolic of its cultural heritage and values.
Here are some interesting facts about Emirates iconic attire:
- Seven pleats connect the delicate white headscarf to its bold red headpiece. Each pleat represents one of the seven nations within the United Arab Emirates.
- Red: Symbol of power
- White: Represents purity
- Beige: Conveys desert sand
1985-1987
1988-1997
1997-2009
Designed by Paco Rabanne
2008-Present
The current uniform was redesigned by UK based design firm, Simon Jersey.
It was unveiled on July 28, 2008, to coincide with the delivery of Emirates first A380 aircraft.
It was first worn in service on August 01, 2008, during the A380’s inaugural flight from Dubai to New York.
The full roll out took place by mid 2009.
The firm spent two years on research and development, its design brief: ”To create a sharper and more business-like look that would stand out in airports around the world. It needed to clearly demonstrate the values of luxury and sophistication that Emirates is known for.”
During the research phase, designers accompanied crew on long haul flights to New Zealand, observing as crew performed their variety of duties, while learning how changing environments impacted comfort and wear.
From its extensive research, input from working crew, and field testing, key changes to the uniform were made:
Comfort and functionality
- Crease and stain resistant fabric keeps the uniform immaculate, even on long haul flights.
- Moisture wicking and breathable fabric that is comfortable in varying climates.
- Durable and natural fabric blends ensure longevity.
- Supple fabric allows crew to move around the cabin without restriction or skin irritation.
- Layered pieces allow the mixing and matching of items, suitable for changing environments and climates.
Female Styling
- Mushroom colored suit, with chocolate and red pinstripe detailing.
- Cream blouse, with red trim.
- Inverted red pleats on skirt hem.
- Beige piping on the red hat, and updated cartouche.
- Modernized cut with tapered fitting.
Male Styling
- Rich chocolate fabric, with subtle cream and red pinstripe.
- Cream shirt.
- Caramel, honey and red tie.
Nujoum Star Pin
The little gold star, worn above the name badge, is the ‘Nujoum Star’. ‘Nujoum’ is Arabic for stars, and is a concept introduced by Emirates in 2009 to instill the Emirates values.
The star, given to abinitio upon graduation from induction training, symbolises the five core values of the Emirates brand and its service personality:
- Cosmopolitan
- Considerate
- Personal
- Pioneering
- Thorough
