Riyadh Air, the highly anticipated Saudi Arabian airline set to make its debut in the coming months, is not only revolutionizing air travel but also taking to the skies in style. The airline unveiled its stunning crew uniforms designed by celebrated Saudi couturier Ashi at Haute Couture Week in Paris, generating significant buzz in the fashion and travel worlds.
The partnership between Riyadh Air and Ashi is a testament to the airline’s dedication to luxury and sophistication. The collection, a striking series of sharp, functional, and fashion-forward ensembles, showcases Riyadh Air’s signature deep royal purple hue. Sculpted skirt suits gracefully walked the runway alongside blouse and pant sets, with models sporting sleek hats and artfully draped headscarves. For the men, impeccably tailored suits took center stage.
Ashi, known for dressing some of the most influential women globally, including Beyoncé, Deepika Padukone, and Queen Rania of Jordan, was a natural choice for this momentous project. “Our cabin crew personify the panache and style that Riyadh Air represents, making it imperative to partner with a like-minded innovator who not only understands Saudi Arabian culture and hospitality, but also captures the essence of our brand with a bold, visual impact,” explains Riyadh Air CEO Tony Douglas. “The cabin crew fashion line is one of the first things our guests will see when they board our aircraft in 2025, and we are confident that Ashi’s unique designs will leave a lasting impression, ensuring the experience lives long in their memory after they have landed.”
Ashi shared his excitement about the collaboration, stating, “It’s such an honor to collaborate with Riyadh Air to design the airline’s first ever cabin crew fashion line. I am so exciting to be part of this project that will be significant for Saudi and the airline industry.”
The designer elaborated on the creative process, drawing inspiration from the golden age of airlines in the 1960s. “I had in mind the golden age of the airline companies, somewhere during the 60’s. I wanted to create a collection that reflects that period, but in a modern way, with a touch of the futuristic.” The collection comprises 35 looks for both women and men, encompassing a lifestyle range including coats, jackets, pants, dresses, shoes, earrings, and hats. Ashi highlighted his meticulous research in discovering a unique and special color never before used in any airline uniform.
The grand reveal at Haute Couture Week was a momentous occasion for Ashi. “It was one of my dreams to design a line for an airline, so I was excited about the unveiling and I hoped that the response would be positive.” He acknowledged the distinct challenges of designing airline uniforms compared to avant-garde gowns for celebrities. “The experience was totally different from designing a dress for a celebrity. On the red carpet, I can go far with my creativity in terms of volumes, materials, and structure — I have no limit. But when designing uniforms to be worn on a daily basis in a professional environment, the clothes must be comfortable, and I had to think differently.”
Ashi revealed the main challenges he faced in creating the Riyadh Air cabin crew line: combining chic, modern, and comfortable outfits while respecting his vision of fashion and Riyadh Air’s brand identity. He also emphasized the importance of incorporating sustainable fabrics and addressing technical aspects like preventing creasing.
Ashi expressed his aspiration for the uniforms to evoke a sense of nostalgia and elegance for passengers. “I wish it will bring back the golden age of airline outfits and I hope they will think that it is the most elegant cabin crew outfits never seen.”
With its captivating designs and commitment to luxury, Riyadh Air’s cabin crew uniforms are set to elevate the airline experience and leave a lasting impression on passengers. The collection is a testament to the innovative collaboration between Riyadh Air and Ashi, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s growing influence on the global fashion scene.
