Braniff Boutique: Sky-High Style from the World’s Chicest Airline

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The Braniff Boutique encapsulates the airline’s groundbreaking style. Photos courtesy: Braniff Airways, Incorporated

It’s been more than 40 years since Braniff International took its final flight. But thanks to the airline’s deep associations with the world of design, art, and fashion, the legend of the high-flying carrier lives on. In her prep for an article on the upcoming Braniff International History and Architecture Conference, CandysDirt.com senior columnist Karen Eubank discovered the Braniff Boutique, a gem of 1960s-inspired home décor, art, ready-to-wear, accessories, and memorabilia.

The ’60s — a decade defined by innovation, self-expression, and the breaking of established norms — was also perfect timing for Braniff’s revolutionary End of the Plain Plane campaign.

In just a short period of time, the uber-successful marketing strategy catapulted the airline into the world spotlight.

We’re talking names. Renowned names, starting with project mastermind Mary Wells Lawrence. As part of the total brand makeover, the visionary ad exec tapped New Mexico architect Alexander Girard to reimagine everything from cabin interiors to passenger lounges. Standouts include Herman Miller-designed fabrics paired with iconic Eames furniture.

Above, Girard’s supremely stylish passenger waiting areas; below, Pucci and Halston’s fabulously fashionable uniforms.

Fashion designers Emilio Pucci and Roy Halston were also among the airline’s high-profile hires. The former, known for his bold kaleidoscope patterns, was the first to design a space-age-themed couture uniform for ground and flight personnel. Ten years later, Halston brought his signature chic to the brand, a perfect fusion of modernist elegance, comfort, and understated luxury.

Browsing the Braniff Boutique site is like a trip down memory lane. But beyond nostalgia, there’s some epically cool stuff at the ready.

Alexander Girard Throw

Love color? This all-season multi-hued fringe blanket will instantly liven up any space. Also available in Braniff’s classic two-tone color schemes.

Pucci Pillows

These pillows are not only comfy – they ooze style. Choose 18” or 22” square, 16” round, or lumbar.

A bit of history about the design: The dynamic composition of the prints was inspired by Pucci’s experience as a World War II pilot. In later years, he clearly recalled the constant movement and the kaleidoscope of colors that spread out before him when flying over Europe.

In addition to Pucci, check out swoon-worthy patterns from Halston, GIrard, and more.

Travel Poster Art – Museum Grade Limited Editions

Adorn your wall with myriad destinations – think Rio, Mexico, Brazil, Colorado, and the Lone Star State. Each embossed limited-edition fine art print is made under the company’s Master Printers’ supervision, numbered sequentially, and comes with an accompanying certificate of authenticity.

Braniff Inflight Fashion Show Shower Curtain

The design itself was originally inspired by an ad touting Pucci’s space-inspired “Gemini IV” uniforms. Why we’re obsessed: During coordinated “air strips” throughout the flight, stewardesses would change into different outfits – a literal runway in the sky.

The shower curtain (above) and the ad that inspired it (below).

The image also appears on drink coasters, luggage tags, throws, pillows, and more.  

Men’s and Women’s Wear

A robust collection includes tees, ties, sweatpants, sneakers, and swimwear. Our favorites: Brightly colored canvas flip flops and too-cool-to-hide undies.

Purchase the exclusively-licensed good at the Braniff Boutique.

1 Comment

  1. Stephen Melott on September 16, 2024 at 12:31 pm

    One of the photos in the uniform montage ( with the man in the orange hacket) is from Qantas Australia, not Braniff.

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