Decades of Aisle Style

With Air New Zealand celebrating its 30th anniversary of flights between London and Los Angeles, British lifestyle magazine Female First looks at the fashion of the airline over the decades. “Air New Zealand’s heritage can be traced back to April 1940 when its forerunner airline, Tasman Empire Airways Limited (TEAL) was incorporated. The first six female flight attendants wore long black double-breasted jackets, ties, knee length skirts, and a military-styled hat. Influenced by WWII, the look was formal and military. The first uniform created by a New Zealand designer was introduced in 1973. Vinka Lucas created a stylish, uniquely different uniform collection featuring a double-breasted jacket with 12 buttons worn over a dress and a bright yellow blouse.” Trelise Cooper is the designer of the current Air New Zealand uniform.