American Airlines' new prototype uniforms designed by KaufmanFranco

American Airlines' new prototype uniforms designed by KaufmanFranco

UNIFORM STYLE

Gray Skies Ahead

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Vintage airline Braniff and PSA uniforms (photo by Keith Bedford for the New York Times)

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Los Angeles-based designer Richard Tyler introduced new Delta uniforms in 2008.

The Gray Lady is all abuzz about American Airlines' new gray uniforms designed by Ken Kaufman of New York–based KaufmanFranco. In a fun read, the New York Times polls some fashion industry insiders for their take on the new prototype uniforms. Their take: not good.

American’s new uniforms will be tested by 500 employees, who will offer some feedback on the new styles, which will be incorporated into the final designs, which are expected to roll out next year.

For the record, I think the new uniforms look good—and, of course, practical. But if you’re one who’s pining for the days of mod stewardess walking a 30,000-foot-high runway, you have a chance to reminisce about the good old days of air travel. The New York Times story is accompanied by shots of vintage airline uniforms--including shots of the Pucci designs for Braniff--from a runway show held at Kennedy airport.