When it finally opens this year, the new express rail service linking Union Station and Pearson International Airport will signal a new era for Toronto travellers.

But when it comes to the inaugural uniforms worn by employees, Union Pearson Express is looking to the past, with a nod to Ontario’s rail and air heritage, right down to the crest, ties and pillbox style hats.

“It’s a pick-and-mix scenario,” says Matt Robinson, founder of Klaxon Howl, who has spent 18 months designing the dozens of pieces for male and female staff that include short- and long-sleeved shirts, trousers and skirts for warm and cold weather, tunics, footwear, scarves, ties, belts, caps.

He even designed the crest, an original tartan for the ties and satchels that will carry the handheld electronic ticketing device.

Robinson is known for his vintage and military style menswear and his commitment to detail, right down to the last button. He’s also been in the military himself, which means he knows a thing or two about uniforms and how they need to be comfortable, durable and function properly for the job at hand.

These ones, he says, are all made in Canada and “very Ontario-centric.”

They will be worn by the staff of about 120 guest service representatives and other personnel.

Colours, based on the Union Pearson Express palette, reflect the Ontario landscape, with an emphasis on dark green and touches of sage green, gold, orange and rust.

The sophisticated lines and use of vintage railway and aviation details is not only about history, says Robinson.

It also reflects back to “the golden age of travel” when getting on a train or airplane was a big deal and people dressed up for it instead of throwing on sweatpants and Uggs.

“This return to old traditions is somewhat nostalgic,” he says.

Union Pearson Express, operated by Metrolinx, is scheduled to open this spring.

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