Riyadh Air has hit the runway, and no – we are not talking about an airport runway – we are talking about the runway at Haute Couture Week in Paris.
Riyadh Air is Saudi Arabia’s new national airline. It “aims to become the world’s most forward-thinking carrier, embracing the best sustainability practices and elevating travel experiences” and was first introduced by Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman last year.
The move is Saudi Arabia’s latest attempt to build a global luxury tourism brand to rival the likes of its neighbour Dubai.
Riyadh Air looks to have already made its mark on the luxury market thanks to its decision to debut its cabin crew uniform at the prestigious Paris couture show.
According to TikTok user @thenonstopdan celebrities such as Sadie Sink and Michelle Williams watched as models wearing the uniforms strolled across the purple runway.
@thenonstopdan A fashion show for an airline? Yup! Riyadh Air revealed their uniforms at Paris Haute Couture Week and guess who was there? Not me! Oh wait, yes I was😏 Do you think these outfits are as iconic as promised?! #RiyadhAir #Fashion #UniformReveal
The fashion line was made up of dozens of male and female looks, of which 15 were revealed. The uniform was comprised of timeless cashmere outerwear, dresses and trousers made of fine wools, custom leather footwear, amethyst earrings, and iconic pillbox hats, all of which are inspired by 1950s airline fashion, widely considered as the ‘golden age’ in aviation, but with a modern twist. Saudi fashion designer Ashi was behind the designs.
The reveal evening was attended by guests including senior stakeholders, diplomats and celebrities.
Riyadh Air and Lucid, maker of the world’s most advanced electric vehicles, also took the opportunity during Haute Couture Week in Paris to reaffirm their shared commitment to sustainable transport and eco-friendly practices. Lucid and Riyadh Air have a partnership spanning co-marketing, commercial, and operational streams for guests.
The fashion collection, to be worn by Riyadh Air cabin crew, pilots, concierges, and airport agents, will be changed seasonally.
Riyadh Air CEO Tony Douglas said: “This has been a landmark occasion for Riyadh Air, and it shows just how far we’ve come in a short space of time. For a start-up airline to be showcasing our new fashion collection during Haute Couture Week in Paris shows what an impact Riyadh Air is having globally. Working with Ashi on these designs has been a tremendous experience for all of us and we’re all very proud to be able to show off the creations and the full range early next year.”
Riyadh Air is on track to make its maiden flight in 2025 and says it wants to “set new standards” for the aviation industry.
https://www.travelweekly.com.au/article/saudi-arabia-hosts-film-night-at-the-sydney-opera-house/
