The evolution of the Aer Lingus uniform throughout the years

By Edaein OConnell
15th Jan 2020

The evolution of the Aer Lingus uniform throughout the years

To celebrate the unveiling of the brand new Aer Lingus uniform we are taking a look at its evolution through the years

As a people, we are unusually proud of our national airline. There is no better feeling than going on a holiday but it’s made all the more special by boarding an Aer Lingus plane. Then there is the unbridled emotion which overcomes an Irish person as they fly home while drinking a complimentary cup of tea and a slice of brown bread while gazing on the rugged outline of the coast.

Today the brand new Aer Lingus uniform was unveiled as part of the brand redesign which began in 2018. Designed by Louise Kennedy, it features 25 redesigned garments including a new trouser option for the female crew. The uniform was last updated 22 years years ago in 1998 and was designed by Louise also.

Guests flying with Aer Lingus in the coming months can still expect to see iconic green in the shade ‘Kenmare Green’ along with the inclusion of more navy throughout.

Louise Kennedy said of the new designs: “We were honoured to be chosen to design the new Aer Lingus uniform. The brief from the airline was very clear and we were confident we could deliver a modern and stylish capsule collection which would endure for several years.”

“The results reflect extensive engagement and inputs from the ground and cabin crew members. Importantly, over the past two years, we had constant support from Aer Lingus to remain true to our designs that allowed for more uniform options and the use of innovative fabrics.”

In celebration of the unveiling, we are taking a look at the variations of Aer Lingus uniforms which have appeared throughout the decades. From its humble beginnings in the colour brown by Sybil Connolly to the first green uniforms which were introduced in 1948, the uniform has been chopped and changed by some of the country’s best designers including Irene Gilbert, Paul Costelloe and now Louise Kennedy.