Mpho Koka
Students of the North-West University (NWU) Potchefstroom campus welcomed the decision by Virgin Atlantic not to make their female flight attendants wear make-up or skirts anymore.
The Virgin Atlantic airline, has recently reformed its dress policy for the female cabin crew – female flight attendants are no longer required to wear make-up or the airline’s characteristic tight, red skirts. Students from different societies on campus had their say on the recent decision taken.
Zibusiso Ndlovu (22), a final year Electromechanical Engineering student and member of the NWU debate society had this to say: “I think it’s fine really. It’s okay to let people be free and comfortable. This allows the women to be free. And they can wear a specific type of attire or colour of their choice.”
Zibusiso also believes this enhances the performance of the flight attendants. “This decision allows flight attendants to be free in themselves and might translate into them giving better service,” he added.
Khensani Moletsane (20), member of the Campus Pride Executive Committee, in charge of the portfolio Humanities says everyone has the right to express how they feel.
“You have the choice to present yourself in whichever way you feel suitable. This is actually good. Now everyone has the right to choose what works for them and what doesn’t. Now the freedom of expression of every single woman is maintained,” she said.
Khensani says that this decision is amazing.
“With this decision, you are letting go of the male – female identities genders.”
For the sake of debating, Zibusiso adds: “Being the debater that I am, I am just curious as to why Virgin Atlantic made their female flight attendants wear make-up and skirts in the first place. If it is because of uniformity and arguing that every brand should have a certain presentation and the way it portrays itself, then I understand."
"I have no problem at all. However, if the rule of wearing make-up and skirts was to attract more customers because it is good for business and promoting the idea of ‘Sex Sells’ then I find that problematic. Because now you are sexually objectifying the women and using them as a means to an end," he continued.
NWU Sports Soccer-Institute player, Bongani Mabena (23), who has represented the NWU Soccer team in the Varsity Football tournament said: “Well, honestly, I think it is a good thing. Now women won’t have to wear something out of being compelled to do so. There will no longer be forced.”
How to do your make up as a flight attendant does it.
Before and after shots of make up
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