A Uniform For 2021: SkyUp Ditches High Heel Requirement

Ukraine’s SkyUp Airlines is changing up its uniform. Following a worker survey, heels will no longer be a requirement as comfortable sneakers will be able to be worn by workers from next month.

Despite the changes, SkyUp’s outfit continues to match its livery. Photo: SkyUp

A welcome upgrade

The low-cost carrier is replacing its flight attendants’ uniforms in a bid to offer greater comfort. This move will undoubtedly be welcome news for cabin crew members amid the long shifts that have workers always on the go.

SkyUp’s head of marketing, Marianna Grygoras, highlights that a flight attendant’s role shouldn’t be romanticized as it’s hard work. Grygoras adds that, ultimately, the female members of the cabin crew don’t want to be sexualized and seen as playful.

“Twelve hours on your feet, flying from Kyiv to Zanzibar and back. If you wear high heels, you are hardly able to walk afterwards,” shares flight attendant Daria Solomennaya, 27, as reported by the BBC.

“That includes four hours of security checks and cleaning.”

Professionalism has not made way for comfort following the update. Photo: SkyUp

More than a change of clothes

The switch-up is part of SKyUp’s Champions initiative. This summer, the airline emphasized that it’s not just about being comfortable and stylish. This introduction is part of a completely new vision.

Thus, attendants will be ditching suits with skirts in favor of Ukrainian fashion brand GUDU-backed trouser suits and trench coats made of Italian eco-leather. Additionally, they will be rocking Nike Air Max 720s instead of high heels. GUNIA project is also helping to offer a sky-blue silk scarf, which SkyUp calls “the main accent of the image.” The color of the outfit is also complemented by a bright orange suitcase supplied by Have A Rest.

SkyUp has considered several factors with its new uniform upgrade. Photo: SkyUp

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Across the industry

Altogether, carriers are becoming increasingly aware of the need to update flight attendant uniforms into the 21st century. The likes of Flair Airlines and United Airlines have also been updating their looks following staff discussions.

Certain carriers aren’t afraid to take a significant leap drop outdated traditions. For instance, Iceland’s PLAY revealed new casual uniforms, with comfortable sneakers part of the laid back yet smart look.

Many other operators may follow suit with their uniform policies. Photo: SkyUp

Japan Airlines has also scrapped obligatory high heels and is providing the option of trousers over pencil skirts. There are also calls for additional changes, such as the dropping of mandatory cosmetics on board. This aspect is something that the likes of Virgin Atlantic and Norwegian Air are following.

Airlines around the world are continuing to review their policies across the board. Therefore, we will likely see additional shifts in crew uniform stances this decade as more operators consult their staff members.

Altogether, what are your thoughts about SkyUp Airlines’ new uniform? What do you make of the overall upgrade? Let us know what you think of the move by the carrier in the comment section.

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