Dame Vivienne Westwood design for Virgin Atlantic

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British designer Vivienne Westwood has collaborated with Virgin Atlantic for a long-term partnership which will see her produce a total re-design of its iconic red uniform, inspired by 1940s French couture cutting techniques and Savile Row tailoring heritage.

According to the airline, the designer wanted to create a “futuristic” look, while capturing the “glamour and style that the Virgin Atlantic cabin crew are renowned for”.

The female flight attendant uniform remain red, and follows a very feminine silhouette. The suit features a jacket with a cinched waist and curved hip line, alongside a simple pencil skirt with a double-pleated back.

Westwood commented “My clothes have always got a very strong dynamic rapport with the body – they are very body conscious, they help you to look glamorous, more hourglass, more woman. I design things to help people to hopefully express their personality.”

The men’s outfits have a classic tailored look with a more contemporary feel. The three-piece suit in burgundy wool also features grey wool detailing under its lapels and pockets.

The outfits make use of recycled materials including canvas, leather off-cuts and polyester yarn produced from plastic bottles.

“I am always trying to find fabrics that are more friendly to the environment – working with Virgin Atlantic they managed to research this and find more eco fabrics,” she said.

This isn’t the first time Westwood and Branson have crossed paths – the punk designer was onboard a boat trip organised by Branson in 1977 for the Sex Pistols, the latest signings to his Virgin record label.

The uniforms will debut in July 2013 before their official launch in 2014, when they will be worn by over 7500 members of staff, including cabin crew and pilots.

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