“I think that was Justin Timber-what’s-his-face serving me my Gin & Tonic?” I can imagine a few people in their ‘later years of life’ whispering to each other as they go on their annual holiday. Welcome to Air Canada Rouge’s new uniform.

Following the trend of the capsule wardrobe that most North American Carriers seem to be following, Air Canada Rouge’s uniform is a relaxed and colour co-ordinated collection that seems to fit the brand ethos of the airline. Personally, we love this uniform, there is a fun modern element to it that we feel the livery should have embraced a little more. There is also a dis chord between the livery and uniform brand elements.

The trilby hats are our favourite elements, along with the Fluevog shoes and designer ties and what is refreshing to see is a wealth of colourful elements at last, shouting above the usual blues and greys of North American carriers (Much like United’s latest uniform launch which wasn’t anything to write home about).

“Our goal was to create a unique, welcoming and fashion forward look with lasting appeal that would also be practical and comfortable,” said Renee Smith-Valade, Vice President, Customer Experience. “We developed our uniform and overall look with our partners in record time – about four months — with close attention to cost and making every effort to engage with Canadian designers for an end result that reflects our relaxed, fun, holiday atmosphere onboard.”

We couldn’t agree more. However with this shift into more casual attire for cabin crew, I can’t help but feel there is a lack of authority in the outfits, meaning in an emergency the cabin crew will be hard to identify and also, makes it harder for them to take control of a situation on board if one arose with difficult customers, as uniforms always provide a subtle sense of authority. Still – this has got us all saying ‘all aboard the fun plane!’