Take a good look at the Hawaiian Airlines uniform (above). Keep looking. Really take it in. Because it may be one of the last times you ever see it.
The carrier is stripping its employees of their current gear and giving them a more “bold” and “forward” look with new uniforms – the first uniform change since 2008 (click here to see Hawaiian Airlines’ uniforms through the ages).
Starting this month, Hilo-based design studio Sig Zane Kaiao and Japanese design consultants Tetsu Nishiyama and Mikiko Nishiyama, will collaborate to design a new look for the airline in the sky and on the ground.
Hawaiian Airlines’ ‘hui’ team will redesign the airline’s uniform.
With the help and feedback from 40 Hawaiian employees, the carrier’s design team aka hui, will deliver a “truly unique and timeless design”.
What does that mean? Is Hawaiian ditching its roots for a generic, modern look?
No, don’t worry, although the overall look is getting an upgrade, the airline has assured it will maintain its connection to the Hawaiian culture.
“Our new uniform will remain connected to our culture and at the same time present a bold, forward-looking sense of style reflecting the global, cosmopolitan cities we serve.”
Avi Mannis, Hawaiian Airlines Senior Vice President of Marketing
In addition to looking good, each garment will go through rigorous review to ensure they meet functional requirements – aka staff had better be comfortable enough in them to do this:
“We want every employee, from the hangar to the cockpit, to feel a sense of pride when they wear their uniform,” Mannis added.
“We’re thrilled to see what this design hui brings to life for our employees.”
The new apparel is set to make its debut in 2017, until then travellers can enjoy the airline’s upgraded Business Class experience, check out its new website, or try out the renovated lounge at Honolulu Airport.
Of course, you could always hit the airline up and ask the expanded Sydney team if those rumoured Melbourne flights are coming soon.