Flight Attendants

circa 1971

still circa 1971

circa 1974

still circa 1974- but with an optional poncho-cape type thing

still circa 1974- rarely seen because it was only for colder weather, and with Southwest Airlines  originating in Dallas, TX, and providing flights only within Texas for years, cold weather wasn't really a problem.

circa 1977- three versions of the uniform

If you've ever been on a plane, you've probably noticed the nice people that offer you food and drinks. We know them as "flight attendants," but in another era they were called "stewardesses." Doesn't that sound glamorous, y'all? Nowadays they wear modest uniforms that are usually darker colored; kinda business-y type clothing. But, in the early 1970's that wasn't the case. At least not for Southwest airlines. No no no, the Southwest stewardess of that era wore orange hotpants (miniskirts could also be worn), white lace up go-go boots, and an orange tee with a white belt worn between the waist and the hips (1971). In 1974, a new uniform was introduced and featured a play of white polka dots on orange for blouse with rust shade of orange hot pants and an aviator jacket – first worn on October 1, 1974. In 1977, a new uniform was issued, featuring a new version of hot pants—noncuffed, front zippered, and fitted at the waist for a sleek look. For summertime, Southwest introduced an overalls-styled outfit combining a miniskirt and bib-like top of denim satin polyester. I have attached some pictures for the nonbelievers or just plain interested. Not only did they issue this uniform, but Southwest Airlines made its motto "Sex sells seats," and served in-flight drinks named such things as Passion Punch and Love Potion. In a court case in 1981, Southwest Airlines tried to defend its policy of hiring only attractive female flight attendants, arguing that female sex appeal was a legit occupational qualification under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act because it wanted to project a "sexy image and fulfill its public promise to take passengers skyward with 'love'" (because that's what every businessman with a wife or fiancee or whatever needs...not). Needless to say, this appeal didn't hold with the Court. Thanks for readin, hope y'all enjoyed! If y'all have any comments or questions please comment/ask away!

Love y'all!

Lauren Ashley

P.S.- The first photo shown is from here. website photos were obtained from TLC, and uniform details obtained from Southwest. Information about the court case was also from the first link provided, labeled "here."