Delta eager to export sense of style

Delta Air Lines Inc. wants its flight attendants’ uniforms, designed by Richard Tyler, to be worn by Northwest Airlines Corp. flight attendants in spring 2009.

Atlanta-based Delta is seeking to combine with Eagan, Minn.-based Northwest in a stock-swap deal that would create the world’s largest carrier. The deal, announced April 14, is expected to close by year-end.

A joint company memo to flight attendants of both airlines on Thursday said that in the coming days Northwest flight attendants will receive details on upcoming “style clinics” that will show off the uniforms worn by Delta flight attendants.

At those sessions, Northwest flight attendants will get to try on the uniforms and choose which pieces work best for them, Delta spokeswoman Betsy Talton said. Delta flight attendants will be there to offer assistance, Talton said.

Delta hired Tyler in 2004 to do a makeover of some employee uniforms. At the time, Tyler said he wanted the uniforms to “look sexy and great” while keeping a “classic look” as well.

The uniforms for Delta flight attendants, gate and ticket agents, and airport lounge officials got a complete makeover — from their shirts or blouses to their pants, gloves, hats and scarves. The uniforms debuted in 2006.

Tyler’s dresses have been worn by stars such as Julia Roberts, Heather Locklear and Jamie Lee Curtis.

According to Delta, there are 14,000 Delta flight attendants and 8,000 Northwest flight attendants.