It seems there’s no sitting on the fence when it comes to the turbulent issue of airline dress code. And does it even matter? We ask some industry professionals.
Goldman Group joint Managing Director, Anthony Goldman says he does judge people by what they wear when boarding.
“I am a fan of sports jackets for men in business and first class. Our father taught us that many years ago. I will always wear one. I change into a flying outfit (light pants and top) after takeoff. I do judge people on a flight by what they wear on boarding. Sorry”.
And he says while there is no one-size-fits-all rule, there are some taboos.
“No flip flops, ripped clothes or Bintang tank tops – no thanks. It’s not anything goes. I don’t expect suits and high heels, but I do expect people to be dressed in a way that reflects the privilege of boarding a plane and travelling to a wonderful destination”.
Changing times when it comes to dress code
Flight Centre Global Managing Director, Danielle Galloway says she’s not a fan of anything goes, but she says we should “embrace a more modern mindset”.
“In general, we do dress far more casually in life than 10 years ago. For men, a suit and tie was a must for the office, and for women, it was a similar style of structured dressing with a pair of heels, however, most companies are now more than happy with a ‘no tie’ policy.”
She says dressing down has become the new normal although it doesn’t mean people aren’t still interested in looking stylish or in wearing their favourite designer labels.
“It’s not unusual to see people dressed in a head-to-toe designer tracksuit from Gucci, or in a matching set from PE Nation. And designer holdalls, totes and overnight bags are almost common these days as there are so many good options.”
Galloway says there’s also a big difference if you board an international flight and turn left.
“Larger seats and lie flat comfort does mean you have the luxury of perhaps arriving a little more ‘styled’ and able to change, hang a coat and easily access hand luggage to don your favourite pair of PJs for the night!”
Low-cost carriers driving down dress code
Virtuoso General Manager for Australia and New Zealand, Greg Treasure says he believes the change in how we dress is driven by low-cost carriers.
“The advent of low-cost carriers with dumbed down services and the move away from first class to business and premium economy offerings are indicators of air travel becoming more a practical necessity rather than a privileged occasion.
“That also resonates in the way people dress, with comfort being key. Premium cabin offerings include pyjamas to change into which demonstrates the focus and importance toward comfort.
“Saying all that there are still requirements for a minimum standard (lounge access) and onboard. It generally will be indicated in the conditions of carriage imposed and can be enforced by airlines.”
According to Qantas, if you are in its lounges you are required to wear suitable clothing: no singlets, boardies, thongs or Ugg boots.
It states, “These guidelines are intended to create an environment everyone can enjoy, so please be mindful of your choice of clothing and footwear when visiting Qantas Clubs and Business Lounges”.
And it says, “in keeping with this, we ask you wear smart casual clothing and shoes when entering one of our lounges in Australia or overseas”.
Qantas says its team will refuse entry to those who don’t stand by its dress code.
As for guests who aren’t using the lounges, well, it seems it comes down to personal preference.
For more information on dress code, visit Qantas.
