Tariq Amin aiming for a ‘classic and understated look’ with PIA

Veteran stylist Tariq Amin on teaming up with PIA to give crew members new fashion makeover

LAHORE: Grit and glamour are equally important when it comes to selection for cabin crew members. Our national carrier Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has almost always understood this delicate equation but it seems that with its Premier Service, the airline wants to leave no stone unturned.

A new fashion makeover of their cabin crew ala Nomi Ansari and Sania Maskatiya was revealed a few months ago. And now it has roped in veteran stylist Tariq Amin to groom their crew with bi-monthly sessions in Lahore, Karachi and Islamabad for the next three years.

A press release stated that Customer and Premier Service Director Tabassum Qadir has been tasked with carrying out a series of grooming makeovers of crew members.

For a crew that talks to customers about safety issues and dietary preferences, they manage to do it with smiles plastered on their faces and their lipstick firmly in place. This image is not fortuitous, it is carefully planned and taught in beauty and image schools to ensure the members look immaculate at all times.

Perhaps this is what PIA feels Amin will bring on board, both literally and figuratively. Talking to The Express Tribune, he said, “The make-up has become part of the uniform and is now standardised and approved by all parties. It’s a very classic and understated look. The eye shadow, lip colour and blusher will be consistent throughout – in a neutral palette that would suit everyone.”



The stylist said the looks, that will complement the uniform, have been designed keeping in mind the various age groups that cabin crew members belong to. He stresses that it’s a technical job. “There is a blue-based light in the aircraft and the make-up has to be done accordingly. The key was to find a neutral colour palette that doesn’t change with a blue-based light.”

Amin feels backcombing is now gone out of fashion because it makes people look older. “A cap has been introduced so hair will be slick, sleek and classic and there will be a very low off-centre nape bun inspired by Jennifer Lopez and Kim Kardashian. It is important to follow modern trends and keep the looks very contemporary.”

The men will be groomed after the women because male grooming is a one-day activity as they do not require make-up and styling. “It’s the whole package – nails, feet, hands, walk, hygiene, body language, smiling,” Amin added.

Dubai-based carrier Emirates has Clarins on board for all its make-up needs. Amin said a local company that houses all brands might soon be on board for the PIA project. Amin’s team will also be available to the PIA crew in the three major cities.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 19^th, 2016.

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