Brussels Airlines’ has introduced new uniforms for its pilots, cabin crew and ground personnel. The dark blue uniforms with sandy coloured details are made from sustainable materials and designed by young Belgian fashion designer Gabrielle Szwarcenberg.
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Cactus leather and animal-friendly wool: Brussels Airlines has new uniforms
Lisa Bradshaw
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Brussels Airlines has unveiled its new uniforms of navy blue with “champagne-coloured details”, created to align with the airline’s new branding, introduced in 2021. The airline chose Gabrielle Szwarcenberb, a student at Antwerp’s famous fashion department, to design the uniforms.
The two-year process included surveys, workshops and design sessions in close collaboration with frontline employees. “I wanted the design to be elegant and sophisticated while prioritising the staff’s performance and comfort,” said Szwarcenberg. “I really hope the staff enjoys wearing the uniform as much as I enjoyed creating it.”
The uniforms also have a touch of “Belgitude”, with bits of the Atomium recognisable on the scarves and lining of the jackets.
Also involved in the process were Belgian shoe manufacturers Atelier Content and Ambiorix. Strict sustainability standards were applied for every piece of clothing, from the materials to the production to the packaging.
Shoes are, for instance, are made from leather derived from cactus and grapes. The wool is mulesing-free in keeping with the Responsible Wool Standard, and the polyester is largely recycled.
The airline’s style guide for staff has also been modernised, with many pieces now being unisex. “The airline aims to make everyone feel at home, and that of course includes its employees,” said the airline in a statement. “These new guidelines should contribute to a higher wellbeing at work.”
The airline no longer requires women to wear make-up, which has become optional for both men and women. The guidelines for hair and jewellery are now also the same for everyone. “When wearing make-up or nail polish, certain styles and colour palettes would need to be followed, regardless of the gender of the employee,” the airline announced.
And the airline now even allows tattoos, as long as they comply with certain rules, such as the position, size and what it represents. “These uniforms embody everything Brussels Airlines stands for,” says the COO Tilman Reinshagen. “Belgitude, a platform for young talent, sustainability and inclusion.”
