Virgin America New Uniforms by Banana Republic

[Anna Sanina, POPSOP. 23 JUL 2012] Virgin America has tasked Banana Republic to design a new uniforms for the airline’s 2,000 workers and this summer it goes live.

The uniforms look fresh and stylish featuring aviation details such as as shoulder tabs and button chest pockets. The main colors—red and black—are inspired by the airline’s service style and its cabin design. Pilots, in-flight and airport workers will start wearing it August 8, 2012, which marks the fifth anniversary of Virgin America. The uniforms include nine styles for men and thirteen styles for women.

Banana Republic has also created a travel essentials range, which will be available to Virgin America flyers for a limited time via the airline’s Red in-flight entertainment system Shop platform and in select Banana Republic stores from August 7, 2012. The range includes aviator sunglasses, classic trenches for men and women, a leather tote and men’s messenger bag.

“In creating the uniform designs for Virgin America, we wanted to respect the heritage of in-flight uniform design while injecting a modern twist that’s both functional and fashionable,” said Banana Republic Creative Director and Executive Vice President, Simon Kneen.

It took 18 month for Banana Republic to develop the uniform. Part of this was an internal ‘Design Challenge,’ in which Banana Republic designers competed for the coveted opportunity to create the uniform design.

Previously, Virgin America and Banana Republic have collaborated on creation of the first live-tweeted in-flight fashion show last year and in-flight makeovers at 35,000 feet in 2010. In 2011, Virgin America also partnered with Google to let its passengers discover Chromebook.