Air New Zealand has recruited renowned Kiwi fashion designer Emilia Wickstead to design its new staff uniform.
Wickstead has become world famous for her works, having won the Red Carpet Designer of the Year Award at the Elle Style Awards in 2014 and designing a Princess Diana-esque calf-length cream dress worn by Dame Jacinda Ardern during a visit with former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson in 2022.
Chief customer and sales officer Leanne Geraghty said the airline received expressions of interest from over 40 New Zealand designers wanting to take up the role, in the end being "blown away" by Wickstead's concepts.
"[We] heard pitches from the country’s leading design talent, showcasing the depth and breadth of New Zealand fashion, making it an incredibly tough decision. Ultimately, Emilia stood out as the perfect partner," Geraghty said.
Wickstead said it was a privilege to be selected as the airline's next uniform designer.
"I could not be prouder, or more excited, to have been selected as Air New Zealand’s next uniform designer. This is a true passion project for me; one that further connects me with my homeland Aotearoa, and the community and places that I love," she said.
“My approach to the uniform centres around a deep respect for New Zealand’s cultural heritage. First and foremost, it is inspired by people. I’m a big believer that clothing can be transformative, uplifting and empowering, and my hope is that the new uniforms will instil a sense of pride and purpose in Air New Zealand’s incredible, world-class team."
The airline announced back in May that it would be refreshing its design of 12 years, originally created by Kiwi designer Dame Trelise Cooper.
"[Cooper's] iconic and much-loved design has served us well and after an incredible tenure, it’s time to pass the baton," Geraghty said earlier.
Air New Zealand said its Emilia Wickstead uniforms will be revealed in late 2024 and progressively rolled out to over 5000 cabin crew, "front of house" ground staff and pilots.
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