The Seattle Space Needle partnered with seasoned uniform designer Luly Yang for a new team uniform refresh. Yang brought her experience in design and architecture, and her understanding of the human form, creating a one-of-a-kind uniform collection for the Space Needle. Garments were created for team members of various work groups: from outdoor and active valet attendants to operators of the 43 second elevator ride up to the observation deck. 

After speaking with several travel and tourism industry professionals and focus groups, Yang was able to deliver on key features requested by future wearers including pockets, which are  sized specifically to accommodate the items they’d most likely hold, comfortable stretch, and breathability.

Respecting the architecture and history of the landmark was also integral to the uniform design’s success. The original hue of the Space Needle, Galaxy Gold, can be found lining the mid-layer jacket pockets and along the collar of the polo shirts. The linear pattern resting on the shoulders of the polo and mid-layer was taken from the blueprint of architectural firm Olson Kundig Architects, designer of the 2017 Space Needle renovation. 

To achieve the perfect fit, Yang used a couture-based 3D approach to garment fitting where the pattern pieces are manipulated around the body to achieve a flattering sculptural look for all body types, instead of using the industry standard flat pattern manipulation. By using several solutions to reduce the sampling process timeline and resources, Yang has minimized each collection’s carbon footprint below industry average. 

The entry process for the 2024 Image of the Year Awards as well as NAUMD’s other recognition programs will open late fall.  Check the website and keep reading The Pulse for updates, or contact rick.levine@naumd.com  to learn more.