Michael Buble
Michael Buble

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From runway to runway: Qantas uniform gets a makeover – but who’s designing it?

Qantas is trading in its current threads for a brand-new look, launching its first uniform redesign in over a decade. Will the next generation of Qantas style be sleek and modern, classically tailored, or a bold new take on aviation fashion?

Qantas is trading in its current threads for a brand-new look, launching its first uniform redesign in over a decade. Will the next generation of Qantas style be sleek and modern, classically tailored, or a bold new take on aviation fashion?

With a historic fleet renewal program underway and Project Sunrise on the horizon, Qantas is reimagining how it presents itself to the world. And that starts with what its 17,500-strong uniformed workforce will be wearing. The airline is now on the hunt for a new Australian designer to craft a look that embodies Qantas’ evolution.

Power suits or practical chic? What could the new Qantas uniform look like?

Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson says the redesign is about more than aesthetics—it’s about marking a new chapter for the airline and its people.

“We have ambitious plans for the future, and transforming the way we reflect the brand is critical to that,” she said.

A fleet of fashion: Qantas staff showcase a variety of uniforms across different roles, but change is coming. Who will take on the challenge of designing the airline's next iconic look?
A fleet of fashion: Qantas staff showcase a variety of uniforms across different roles, but change is coming. Who will take on the challenge of designing the airline’s next iconic look?

“Our uniform represents the Qantas spirit all over the world.

“With a vast and growing international and domestic network, a historic fleet renewal program underway and the final frontier of global aviation just around the corner, it’s time to define a new look for our people that reflects where we are heading.”

Acknowledging the strong connection Qantas employees have with their uniforms, Hudson emphasised that staff will play a central role in shaping the design. A survey of uniformed employees begins today, allowing them to share insights on what they need from their next look.

A modern take on heritage: The 2003 Qantas uniform by Peter Morrissey featured contemporary cuts with Indigenous-inspired prints. Will the next iteration carry a similar cultural touch?
A modern take on heritage: The 2003 Qantas uniform by Peter Morrissey featured contemporary cuts with Indigenous-inspired prints. Will the next iteration carry a similar cultural touch?

Who will be the next fashion heavyweight to take on Qantas?

Over its 105-year history, Qantas uniforms have been a reflection of both the times and the brand’s evolution. The current uniform, designed by Martin Grant, has been a staple since 2013. Before that, fashion heavyweights like Peter Morrissey, Yves Saint Laurent, George Gross & Harry Who, and Emilio Pucci have left their mark on Qantas’ aesthetic.

Retro runway: Qantas' 1970s uniforms brought a pop of colour and flair to the skies. Could the next uniform draw inspiration from this vibrant era...and it's facial hair?
Retro runway: Qantas’ 1970s uniforms brought a pop of colour and flair to the skies. Could the next uniform draw inspiration from this vibrant era…and it’s facial hair?
Taking off in style: The 1960s Qantas uniform exuded sophistication with its deep blue, structured design. Will the next designer bring back this polished, vintage look?
Taking off in style: The 1960s Qantas uniform exuded sophistication with its deep blue, structured design. Will the next designer bring back this polished, vintage look?
Aviation green: This 1950s uniform is a testament to the ever-evolving style of Qantas' cabin crew. Will the new redesign embrace heritage or forge a new path in aviation fashion?
Aviation green: This 1950s uniform is a testament to the ever-evolving style of Qantas’ cabin crew. Will the new redesign embrace heritage or forge a new path in aviation fashion?
Classic elegance: The white dress uniform of the 1950s embodied a crisp, professional aesthetic. As Qantas gears up for a new look, will timeless sophistication make a return?
Classic elegance: The white dress uniform of the 1950s embodied a crisp, professional aesthetic. As Qantas gears up for a new look, will timeless sophistication make a return?

While the new designer hasn’t been chosen yet, Qantas has confirmed it will invite multiple Australian designers to pitch their vision before announcing the next creative mind behind the uniform in the coming months. So, who could be in the running?

Possible contenders for the new Qantas uniform

We took to AI to dream up possible Qantas uniforms as reimagined by top Aussie designers.

Dion Lee – Modern, architectural tailoring; has experience designing for the Australian Olympic team.

Qantas Dion Lee

Camilla and Marc – Sleek, sophisticated tailoring that could work well for aviation professionals.

Qantas Camilla and Marc

Zimmermann – Probably a wildcard choice for uniforms, but pretty.

Qantas Zimmermann

Christopher Esber – Minimalist with a futuristic edge, could be a modern and functional choice.

Qantas Christopher Esber

Bianca Spender – Elegant, refined tailoring that could blend style with practicality.

Qantas Bianca Spender

P.E Nation – Athleisure-driven, could give a sportier, more relaxed edge to Qantas’ aesthetic.

Qantas PE Nation

Aje – A balance of structure and contemporary style, bringing a fresh take to Qantas’ uniform.

Qantas Aje

Camilla Franks – Known for her vibrant, free-flowing designs and resort-inspired luxury, Camilla Franks has built an empire on bold prints and statement pieces. While not the most obvious choice for aviation wear, her signature aesthetic could bring a flamboyant and unconventional twist to Qantas’ next uniform?

Qantas Camilla

With so many top-tier Australian designers available, Qantas’ next uniform could go in any direction—classic, modern, bold, or minimalist.

High-flying fashion meets function

The uniform redesign is part of Qantas’ significant investment in its future. Alongside its refreshed branding, the airline is set to welcome more than 100 new aircraft across the Qantas Group over the next decade, ensuring that both its fleet and its people reflect its forward-thinking approach.

For now, all eyes will be on which designer will take up the challenge of shaping the next era of Qantas style—one that balances legacy, innovation, and the practical needs of those who wear it every day.