Twelve years have passed since Air New Zealand’s last uniform change, and the big Kiwi airline is now seeking for a replacement.
The airline will discontinue its “iconic” green, pink, and black uniforms, and plans to revamp the appearance of its cabin staff are now being worked on while it looks for a new designer.
The carrier’s aesthetic has developed throughout the years, beginning with the first uniforms created in the 1950s by Australian store David Jones and continuing with those created in the 1960s by Dior.
In 2011, Dame Trelise Cooper, a fashion designer from New Zealand, created the current outfit.
At the time, it received some mixed reviews, with some claiming that while the designs matched Air New Zealand’s tradition, the colour selection was dubious.
But that was in the past, and the big carrier is currently searching for a brand-new appearance.
Leanne Geraghty, the chief customer and sales officer of Air New Zealand, stated that Ms. Cooper’s “iconic and much-loved design” has done them well and that, after a “incredible tenure,” it is time to transfer the torch.
The Air New Zealand uniform, along with the Koru [on its distinctive emblem], is one of the airline’s most significant brand assets, she told news.com.au.
It is time to review our uniforms after 12 years with our recognisable Trelise Cooper designs to make sure they complement our newly revealed upcoming cabin experience.
The search for the airline’s new designer has started, according to Ms. Geraghty.
Since 2011 a lot has happened, so it felt like the proper time to update our uniforms so that they would continue to accurately represent our company, our employees, and New Zealand.
“Our present uniform is well-known across the world, and we want to capitalise on that recognition while also coming up with something fresh and innovative.
We’re interested in seeing the styles and looks that individuals asked to participate in the process will exhibit. The uniform upgrade involves a competitive pitch process involving Kiwi designers.
According to her, airline uniforms must meet specific specifications, so in addition to designing something that aesthetically represents Air New Zealand, utility, comfort, safety, and sustainability will be crucial factors.
Aotearoa will come to life in the uniforms our people proudly wear every day, she said, adding that this is only the beginning of an exciting journey of creativity and innovation.
According to Kiri Hannifin, chief sustainability officer of Air New Zealand, upgrading the uniform gives the airline a chance to assess the sustainability of its work attire.
Supporting a circular economy is a part of our commitment to sustainability, she added. “The decreased life cycle implications of the textiles we employ are a key component of the brief.
The key is incorporating new ideas, particularly those related to textile recycling.
As part of this change, Air New Zealand will also be updating its requirements for grooming.
All New Zealand designers are eligible to submit an expression of interest, which must be received by Sunday, May 14. Selected designers will then be contacted to participate in a competitive pitching process.
In 2025, Air New Zealand plans to introduce new uniforms.
Source: escape