Turkish Airlines Debuts New Uniform

To celebrate the opening of IST and mark 85 years of operations, Turkish Airlines has debuted new uniforms. Boasting a red-and-gray scheme, these outfits blend classic elements of Turkish design with Eastern and Western influences to give travelers what it believes is “a holistic brand experience.”

To celebrate the opening of Istanbul’s New Airport (IST) and mark 85 years of operations, Turkish Airlines has revealed a fresh look for cabin crew. These uniforms, designed by Milan-based couturier Ettore Bilotta, use a dark red and gray palette and according to a statement by the carrier, are, “Inspired by many classic elements of Turkish design and culture…” as well as by the city of Istanbul itself.

The carrier believes that this sleek new look – which will be worn by those in the cockpit and cabin as well as by ground staff – will help to give passengers what it calls “a holistic brand experience.”

Commenting on the refreshed look, M. İlker Aycı, Turkish Airlines chairman of the board and the airline’s executive committee, said, “Turkish Airlines is always thrilled to collaborate with such creative and distinctive talents which blend elegant and practical design. While maintaining traditional elements of Turkish design and culture, our new uniforms are professional and stay true to a culture of hospitality, just like our airline.”

Offering his thoughts on the project, Billotta said, “When I started to design for Turkish Airlines, the first thing that inspired me was Istanbul. This city has been a melting pot for art and civilization for centuries and has a rare richness as a common heritage of many cultures. I wanted to bring elements from traditional calligraphy and mosaics together with the new interpretations of Turkish motifs, which emphasize modern lines, into foulards and ties to reflect a contrast and duality.”

The collection was officially revealed in photo shoot by Miles Aldridge, who captured the airline’s new look in some of Istanbul’s most famous spaces.

Speaking of the inspiration behind the shoot, he said, “I was really inspired when I saw the uniforms as they hark back to a golden age of couture fashion from the 1950’s, but with a very contemporary twist. Again, it’s very much like my own work which is always referencing the past but very much being in today.”

[Photos: Turkish Airlines]