Cabin Crew Grooming Standards: Hair, Makeup & Uniform Guide

Emirates

Qatar Airways

Etihad Airways

Singapore Airlines

British Airways

Can I wear glasses as cabin crew?

Most airlines allow glasses but they must be a professional, subtle style with thin frames. No colored lenses, no oversized fashion frames, and no tinted lenses. Some airlines prefer contact lenses during service. Check your target airline's specific policy. Emirates and Qatar Airways permit glasses but recommend conservative frames.

Are braces allowed at cabin crew interviews?

Traditional metal braces are generally not accepted at Gulf airlines like Emirates and Qatar Airways. Clear or ceramic braces and invisible aligners (like Invisalign) are usually fine. If you have metal braces, it is best to wait until they are removed before applying to Gulf carriers. Western airlines tend to be more lenient.

Can I wear a hijab as cabin crew?

This varies by airline. Emirates and Etihad allow hijab and provide uniform-matching hijab options. Qatar Airways also accommodates hijab. Many Western airlines including British Airways, Air France, and Turkish Airlines also permit hijab as part of the uniform. The hijab must be neat, properly secured, and match the airline's color scheme.

What lipstick color should I wear to the assessment day?

For Gulf airlines, wear a classic red or berry-toned lipstick. For Emirates specifically, a true red is ideal since that matches their brand. For Qatar Airways, a burgundy or berry shade works well. For Western airlines, a professional pink, coral, or nude shade is safe. Avoid orange, brown, or very dark shades.

Are tattoos allowed for cabin crew?

Gulf airlines (Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad) have a strict no visible tattoo policy. Tattoos must not be visible in uniform, including short sleeves. Some Western airlines are relaxing this: British Airways allows small visible tattoos, and Virgin Atlantic permits visible tattoos. If you have tattoos, check the specific airline and consider whether they can be fully covered by uniform.

Can I have dyed or colored hair?

Gulf airlines require natural-looking hair colors only. No visible roots, no ombre, no unnatural colors (pink, blue, grey, etc.). Your color must look polished and maintained. Western airlines are becoming more flexible, but extreme colors are still generally not accepted. If you dye your hair, make sure it looks natural and well-maintained with no root regrowth.

What about acne scars or skin conditions?

Minor acne scars that can be concealed with makeup are generally not an issue. Active severe acne or visible skin conditions may be flagged during the medical assessment, but this varies by airline. The key is a healthy, well-maintained appearance. Invest in a good skincare routine and learn concealing techniques. Airlines look for overall presentation, not perfection.

Do male cabin crew need to wear makeup?

Male cabin crew are not required to wear makeup, but grooming standards are still strict. Clear, healthy-looking skin is expected. Moisturizer and a light concealer for blemishes are recommended. Eyebrows should be groomed. Gulf airlines require men to be clean-shaven. Some Western airlines allow neatly trimmed facial hair. Overall presentation should be polished and professional.

Can I wear fake eyelashes?

Natural-looking false lashes or lash extensions are permitted and even encouraged at many Gulf airlines, as long as they look natural and well-applied. Avoid extremely dramatic or theatrical lash styles. Individual lash extensions that enhance your natural look are the safest choice. Strip lashes should be high quality and properly applied.

What shoes should I wear to assessment day?

Women should wear closed-toe court shoes or pumps with a modest heel (3-7 cm). Black is the safest color. Men should wear polished black leather lace-up shoes. Avoid platforms, stilettos, open-toe shoes, or anything too casual. Shoes must be clean, polished, and comfortable enough to stand in all day.