Now, flying has lost some of its sparkle.
But in the past, flying was a full experienceand was treated as such.
Travelers wore their Sunday best on flights, with cabin bars full of tailored suits and cigarette smoke.
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Flight attendants were globe-trotting modern workers who always looked professional, capable, and enthused.
The uniforms of flight attendants evolved with the times.
Sometimes for better, and sometimes for worse.
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(We’re looking at you, 1980s shoulder pads.)
From the 1930s to the modern day, here are some memorable flight attendant styles throughout history.
The 1980s and 1990s werenotkind or flattering to silhouettes, with oversized ties and shoulder pads being go-to accouterments.
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Do You Recognize These Looks?
A century of flying in high style.
1934
One of the earliest flight attendants on a European flight appeared on this airliner.
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1940s
These thick cinched-waist dresses were a popular 40s silhouette, often paired with the traditional hat.
1950s
Classic suits with exaggerated collars were seen in every color among the airlines during this decade.
Curled bobs and red lips were also the signature flight attendant style.
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1950
Early uniform styles like this ultra-traditional one were common of many airliners.
The style was heavily influenced by military and nurse uniforms at the time.
Hats and white gloves were still worn by most flight attendants.
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By the end of the decade, hemlines went up.
Emilio Pucci designed the uniforms in fruity colors.
The dress also came in other color combinations using blue and off-white.
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Red-white-and-blue belts and hairbows accessorized the red, white, or blue sheath dresses.
These National Airlines flight attendants were aboard a hijacked plane to Cuba in the 60s.
A collection of distinct uniforms have become the norm for most airlines today.
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Reversible smocks provided more color combinations, and the tall hats fit over beehive hairdos.
Capes and fur hats completed the winter look.
Matching white belts added flair to the short hemlines.
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Large loose bows were optional.
Low heels accessorized the traditional skirt suits.
Simple belts and scarves tailor the look.
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Each new collection was designed with style and functionality in mind.
The classic black gets a pop of color from scarves.
2017
Designer Zac Posen was the force behind Delta’s new high style.
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Its high-function uniforms incorporate rich purples, bright reds, and the classic navy.
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British Airways new uniform.Credit:Courtesy of British Airways
