Working for an airline has all sorts of benefits, from free flights to travelling the world and meeting lots of amazing people. But one of the biggest perks is the opportunity to look glamorous and smart on a daily basis.
It can be a really hard thing to maintain – just imagine having to look bright-eyed after a 14 hour flight – but it’s something that needs to be mastered. Air travel is a competitive world, with more and more people flying than ever before, thanks to flight comparison sites such as Cheapflights. Consequently, it is imperative that an airline’s fight attendants look smart and professional at all times to help them stand apart from the competition.
We thought it would be fun to share ten beauty and grooming tips from the golden age of commercial flight – the 1950s. As you will see, things were a little bit different back then . . .
- You must wear a girdle. It makes your garments look smooth and well fitted.
- As well as being single, between the ages of 21 and 27, and of good moral character, you must weigh between 110 and 134 lbs. So keep that weight in check or you will be suspended, should you go above or below this.
- You must wear a cap and have your hair curled beneath. Do not take your hat off, even during the flight.
- Your uniform must be arranged with a tailor to ensure the perfect fit.
- Hair must not be longer than the collar. If you’re not prepared to go for the chop, look for another job.
- You must moisturise your face every day. Cabin air is very drying. You need to keep the skin hydrated, so your make-up can have a healthy base.
- The white collar on your uniform and the matching white gloves must be as white as can be.
- Make sure your lips are red. Keep your lipstick on you, so you can top up when need be.
- You must wear high-heeled shoes as part of your uniform, though these can be changed for flat shoes once in flight.
- Master your make-up skills to ensure you always look beautiful.
Despite things being slightly less rigorous and strict these days, you still need to look glamorous and well maintained. Style and beauty are as important as ever, and it plays a major part in being a flight attendant, as you can see from this Style in the Skies infographic.
What do you make of these cabin crew rules from the 1950s?
Ceri Wheeldon
Ceri is Founder and Editor of Fabafterfifty.co.uk She is a frequent speaker at events and in the media on topics related to women over 50 , including style and living agelessly. With 20+ years experience as a headhunter Ceri also now helps support those looking to extend their working lives.
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