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It's time for a makeover for employees of Atlanta-based Delta Air Lines Inc.
The bankrupt airline on Monday unveiled flashy new uniforms by Richard Tyler, the Los Angeles-based designer hired to give the airline's 20,000 employees a fresh look.
The stylish new uniforms feature splashes of gold and platinum along with the airline's trademark navy blue and red.
Delta commissioned Tyler in 2004 to give its current uniforms a fashion overhaul. The struggling carrier views the uniforms as a way to boost morale among employees and customers after it filed for bankruptcy protection in September and has imposed pay cuts on most employees.
Company officials would not disclose the price tag for Tyler's makeover, but research and development for new uniforms typically breaks down to about $1,000 per employee.
The outfits were designed for employees who deal directly with customers, including flight attendants, gate agents, ticket agents and workers in its Crown Room Club airport lounges.
"Richard's collection is truly runway-ready," said Joanne Smith, Delta's marketing vice president. "We hope our customers will enjoy our new look just as much as we do."
Female employees will get a revamped wardrobe, including new wrap dresses, felt hats and silk scarves. Outfits for male employees include fancy dress shirts, a reversible all-weather coat and a reversible black bucket hat.
You have to remember that Delta did this contract back in 2000, when the airline was still making money. And the employees really hated the blue/gray ensemble, although I like it.
Those uniforms were wearing out, so either way, Delta was going to have to shell out some money. So why not let them wear really stylish outfits from a world-class designer? Anything that boosts employee morale is OK with me!
Posted by: Tucano Bandeirante | May 4, 2006 8:19 AM | Permalink to Comment