I agree that UA has some frontline staff who don't seem to follow what a uniform is supposed to be. However, and maybe it is due to the flights you find yourself on or I find myself on, but I don't think grooming standards are enforced. In fact, wasn't it Kirby who made a comment about the appearance and uniform upkeep of and grooming. Personally I find most of the in inflight crew to be done up as well as could be expected, and some really go out of their way to maintain their appearance and it shows in the level of professionalism in their service. But overall it's a fact of life, we Americans are slobs! Landing in places like Milan where AA and DL crew sometimes arrive around the same time, I have been shocked by what how a small minority of the FA's appear after a redeye.

As per new uniforms, expect them to be rolled out slowly so UA avoids the AA uniform debacle with uncomfortable/itchy uniforms. The CO and UA in flight cabin crew are still working under different work groups which is supposed to be finally merged into one happy family in October. Guessing that has kept various old uniforms going a bit old in the tooth!



Adam