Aer Lingus drops mandatory make-up for female cabin crew

Aer Lingus has announced it will no longer require female cabin crew to wear make-up or skirts at work. In response to feedback sessions with staff across many departments, the company has said staff guidelines for the new uniform are currently being completed but has confirmed that the inclusion of mandatory use of makeup will be dropped from November 2019.

The news is part of the companies rebranding exercise this year, which will see new uniforms created by Irish fashion designer Louise Kennedy. The new designs include a trouser option for women, meaning they will no longer be required to wear skirts.

In January, Aer Lingus unveiled an updated logo and new aircraft livery to reflect the airline’s position as a “modern and contemporary Irish brand that competes on the international stage.”

In the same week, Virgin Atlantic has also announced that make-up and skirts will cease to be mandatory for female staff, who will be given trousers as standard issue, rather than have to put in a special request. The airline has said the new guidelines offer an increased level of comfort, offering more choice on how they want to express themselves at work.