British Airways dump ‘clear’ uniforms which let pervy passengers ogle crew
British Airways have axed a ‘transparent’ uniform that reportedly let pervy passengers ogle cabin crew.
The see-through blouses were issued as part of a new uniform designed by Savile Row tailor Ozwald Boateng and unveiled last year. The garb hit the headlines in December when cabin crew were told to avoid lacy and patterned bras as they would be visible under the silky blouse.
Staff members reportedly complained that some passengers had commented on their underwear. Union officials said some female staff threatened to quit their jobs after being told what bras to wear, which they called a “humiliating fiasco”.
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And now the airline based out of Heathrow Airport has now told female employees that it is exploring two new fabric options for the blouse, which will be at least 43% thicker than the original sheer material.
(Image: PA)
However, prototypes are still reportedly two months away. Before mass manufacturing can begin there is also expected to be lengthy wearer trials.
One employee previously told The Sun: “Sending stewardesses to serve boozy passengers in see-through tops wasn’t a good idea.”
Bosses admitted to staff it had listened to feedback from 10,000 workers and acknowledged that the ‘garments are underperforming’.
The new uniform was the outcome of four years of secret work during which more than 1,500 BA employees submitted designs and took part in testing. Secret trials took place in the air and on the ground.
(Image: Bloomberg via Getty Images)
The collection features a tailored three-piece suit for men with regular and slim fit style trousers and dress, skirt and trouser options for women. It also has a a modern jumpsuit – which is a first for the airline – along with a tunic and hijab option.
Boateng shadowed workers in a number of roles as part of his research and also developed unique bespoke fabrics and designs for the collection.
Sean Doyle, British Airways’ Chairman and CEO, said at the time: “Our uniform is an iconic representation of our brand, something that will carry us into our future, representing the very best of modern Britain and helping us deliver a great British original service for our customers.”
BA has been contacted for comment.
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