Riyadh Air’s approach to uniforms is anything but ordinary

Over the decades, airlines across the globe have approached fashion designers to add a bit of creative flair into their brand. So it’s no surprise that start-up Riyadh Air –which plans on setting the bar high – has searched for a couturier to help create the carrier’s very first uniform. And in reality it didn’t have to search very far from home.

Seeking the help of Saudi couturier Ashi, the airline recently revealed its new threads that will grace the skies in roughly a year from now. With a capsule approach, there are multiple designs that will form the airline’s front line threads. In fact, the exclusive fashion line will be made up of dozens of male and female looks, of which just 15 were revealed during Paris Couture Week earlier this year.

The concepts comprise of timeless cashmere outerwear, dresses and trousers made of fine wools, custom leather footwear, amethyst earrings, and iconic pillbox hats, all of which are inspired by the JetSet era of 1950s airline fashion, but with bold, modern styling for a future-forward brand.

For the new fashion line, Ashi has cultivated completely new colour tones for the looks, including the chic and elegant “Electric Amethyst” for womenswear, and “Dark Amethyst” for menswear (don’t expect these colours on a Farrow And Ball colour palette anytime soon), of which the full collection is scheduled for launch early next year. The unique amethyst shades pay homage to Saudi Arabia’s stunning lavender fields (learn something new everyday!) and are rooted within Riyadh Air’s primary colour. The Saudi fashion designer took inspiration from the Riyadh Air aircraft livery to deliver completely bespoke colours for the new timeless collection. They were also carefully designed to complement the cabin interiors which will be revealed later this year.

The looks are also complemented by accessories such as trademark shoes and hats. Five menswear looks were also unveiled during the first-of-its-kind Haute Couture Week showcase.

The fashion collection, to be worn by Riyadh Air cabin crew, pilots, concierges, and airport agents, can be changed seasonally, keeping the looks fresh all year round.

Ashi cleverly included distinctive Riyadh Air elements within the concepts, such as the iconic canopy twist found in the Riyadh Air brand, and incorporated them in the lines, shadows and the silhouettes of the new fashion line. The coats and jackets worn at the Paris launch also include the same modern lines as seen on the Riyadh Air logo.

I mean, these designs are stunning, and there’s an air of elegance about them that is hard to be found elsewhere, although they are somewhat reminiscent of the uniforms from Hainan Airlines. Here’s hoping this will elevate the uniforms of Emirates and Qatar in the region, although we think that Etihad’s were some of the best in the region… until now!