The start of the 2017 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend has been marked with the official unveiling by Etihad Airways of the new F1 Grid Girls uniform created by celebrated New York-based Nepalese designer, Prabal Gurung.
At an intimate launch held in the prestigious Paddock Club at Yas Marina Circuit, the designer said: “We are so excited to design this uniform with Etihad. Etihad’s foray into fashion is truly an innovative break from tradition. Similarly, we wanted to challenge the conceived notion of how Grid Girls are typically dressed. Together, we are proud to create a jumpsuit with a strong shoulder and our signature architectural approach—something a bit unexpected, yet still feminine and empowering.”
The new uniform, which was worn by Etihad Airways’ cabin crew during the three-day event, was also seen on TV by hundreds of millions of motorsport fans worldwide.
IMG Model Chanel Iman was chosen to unveil the black jumpsuit through a video model diary and photo shoot, shot on location at Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi and in front of an Etihad Airways F1-branded Airbus A380. The images exemplify strength, control and sophistication – all pillars that align with Prabal Gurung and Etihad Airways’ vision for a new uniform. Gold zipper piping and spike zipper pulls speak to Prabal’s signature ‘femininity with a bite’ approach to design.
