Vivienne Westwood Designs Sustainable Uniforms for Virgin Atlantic Airlines

By: Rebecca Taylor

WESTWOOD AND BRANDSON
PHOTO CREDIT: VOGUE UK

Founder of the Virgin Group, Richard Branson recently asked designer Vivienne Westwood to design new uniforms for the staff of Virgin Atlantic Airlines. The famous red uniforms have only been updated four times in the past 30 years and were in need of a makeover. Westwood was the ideal choice for the job because Branson wanted someone who could come up with a unique design.

WOMEN'S NEW UNIFORM WESTWOOD SKETCH
PHOTO CREDIT: VOGUE UK

The uniforms are 1940's french couture inspired with a futuristic flare. The women’s uniform will feature a jacket, cinched at the waist and a pencil skirt all in the company’s signature red. 

MEN'S NEW UNIFORM WESTWOOD SKETCH
PHOTO CREDIT: VOGUE UK

The men’s uniform is a three-piece structured burgundy suit. Westwood, known for being an outspoken environmental activist has decided that her designs will be made from a combination of eco friendly fibres and recycled fabrics. Virgin Airlines has also decided to try out a technology that will melt down old polyester from pop bottles and roadside signs and turning them into fibres that can then be made into clothing. 

The uniforms will be worn by over 7 500 employees and will debut in July but the uniforms will not be officially launched until 2014.

Sources: Vogue.co.uk