Virgin Atlantic has teamed up with British designer Vivienne Westwood to update the airline’s signature red uniform. Westwood opted for a glamorous yet practical design referencing ’40s French couture cuts and Saville Row tailoring for the women’s uniforms. The result is a feminine silhouette, nipped in at the waist with double pleats and a darted pencil skirt. For the Virgin male employees, Westwood again went to Saville Row tailoring to create a burgundy three-piece suit finished with details in grey wool for a very contemporary British look.

“Virgin Atlantic has a distinct spirit and from a design perspective we continually try to challenge the norm and stand out from the crowd. Our current uniform has been around for more than 10 years and we have seen other airlines start to copy it,” said Richard Branson, president of Virgin Atlantic, about the collaboration.

He added that Westwood was the perfect pick because Virgin Atlantic wanted to work with a designer who shared the company’s spirit of adventure, challenged the status quo, and created truly memorable things. Westwood’s creations are created out recycled or recyclable materials such as polyester yarn made from used plastic bottles.

Aside from the uniforms, Vivienne has created recycled bags for the ground staff which will be made by the Ethical Africa Program. The new uniform will be revealed to the public in July, and Virgin Atlantic employees will be able to give feedback on the design, practicality, and wearability before the uniforms’ official launch in 2014.

For more information, visit virgin-atlantic.com