Qantas names new uniform designer

Qantas staff will be getting some new threads after the airline chose Australian designer Martin Grant to refashion its uniforms.

The new uniforms are expected to be ready by 2014 and will replace the existing design by Peter Morrissey, which has been in use since 2003. The Qantas uniform has been redesigned nine times since 1959.

Qantas said Grant was chosen after a rigorous selection process. Born in Melbourne, Grant launched his first fashion line in 1982 and is “internationally recognized for his bespoke tailoring, simplicity of lines and timeless silhouettes,” the airline said in a statement.

“Martin’s work reflects modern and contemporary designs and we were extremely impresses with his appreciation for the Qantas brand and his enthusiasm to design the next instalment of the Qantas uniform,” Qantas CEO Alan Joyce added.

Grant said he was honoured to take on the task.

“As an Australian, I’m proud to be working with such an iconic Australian brand,” the Paris-based designer said. “It will be wonderful to see the Qantas teams wearing my design across Australia and in cities all over the world.”

Qantas said Grant will begin developing design concepts with a “uniform panel” made up of employees from across the airline. The panel will provide feedback on look, wear and comfort.

Qantas uniforms have always sought to reflect the times. With vintage now en vogue, will the airline opt for a 70s revival?

The new uniforms will replace Peter Morrissey’s designs, in use since 2003.

The uniforms used from 1948-1959 drew some obvious inspiration from the military.

The school-teacher look used from 1959-1964 softened the edges but retained the rather severe style of post-war uniforms.

A promo shot from the 1970s coinciding with the first deliveries of Qantas 747s and an upward trend in hem lines.

The 80s were a difficult time for everyone. Qantas went with the bell-boy look.

Qantas was all business from 1994 to 2004.

Comments (7)

jennifer mathie

May 31, 2012 at 5:23 pm

im curious as to which country is making the new uniform

Tony

May 31, 2012 at 6:24 pm

No doubt it will be the same as now, Indonesia (the Spirit of Cheap).

Is this the best place to be wasting money Alan… Maybe it could be better spent on improving the product delivered to customers.

NJP

May 31, 2012 at 11:10 pm

You’d hope they will be made in Australia – just like servicing the aircraft though they will probably be done off shore!!!!

Cooper

June 1, 2012 at 4:43 pm

Really? It’s a uniform. Like majority of the clothing in this country it will be no doubt made overseas.

Jennifer I don’t believe every piece of clothing you own would be Australian made so don’t contradict yourself.

As for the uniform design itself. I hope its alot better than the current one. It’s ugly and old fashioned

Rob

June 5, 2012 at 7:19 am

I think this is a positive step for Qantas to be taking. Lately it’s all been about cost cutting.

peter

June 5, 2012 at 8:31 pm

Share price $1.20 and this management is worried about new uniforms. The major shareholders would now be very concerned about management one would think. Get rid of these muppets now.

johnpro2

June 9, 2012 at 7:53 pm

Share price at $1.20 you say ..maybe, but airlines have normally been a good place to make a small fortune ..starting wit a large one of course.
Luv the 70’s crew in the bright colors …

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