The History of Fashion in Flight

“If the airline industry had a baby book, 1930 would surely be an important page,” the Museum of Flight tells us. It’s because that year, Boeing Air Transport hired eight young nurses to fly as cabin attendants—and the rest is his (and her-)story. Today the museum unveils their extensive flight attendant uniform collection (who knew it had one?!) for this temporary exhibit that’s going to thrill fashion and costume buffs, or anyone with a fancy for mid-century kitsch. From the jaunty pillbox hats and sleek boots of the ‘50s and ‘60s to the onslaught of taupe and sensible loafers later on, it’s incredible to think of how women, and their roles in the workforce, evolved along with the fashions. In “The History of Fashion in Flight”, a dozen complete uniformsare showcased, representing several airlines and dating from the ‘30s to the ‘90s. Prepare for “ooh”’s, “aah”’s, and maybe even some groans from those who know that sometimes it’s “vintage” for a reason. Museum of Flight, 9404 E. Marginal Way, 764-5720. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Daily. Through June 2.RACHEL SHIMP
Feb. 9-June 2, 2008