New uniform for Belgian rail employees

First Deutsche Bahn, and now another railway company is kitting its employees out in a brand new uniform. This month rail staff at the Belgian NMBS swapped their gray work uniform for a fresh blue version.

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Old uniform of Belgian rail employees

It was time for something new, as the uniforms were already a decade old. Gray was the predominant color in this collection, combined with black and orange detailing.

New uniform for Belgian rail employees
Old uniforms | Photo: © NMBS
 Belgian rail employees with mask
Old uniforms | Photo: © NMBS
New uniform for Belgian rail employees
Old uniforms | Photo: © NMBS
Belgian rail employees
Old uniforms | Photo: © NMBS

New NMBS uniform

The new collection was designed and developed by the Belgian fashion house, Xandres NV. For the design, they requested input from NMBS staff and passengers. They extensively tested the uniforms last November, after which they enlarged the pockets and made other minor adjustments.

The new uniforms were finally launched on 9 November. The 4,300 train and station employees will now go to work wearing different shades of blue. Because of the measures surrounding COVID-19, the company has also opted for a matching face mask with a logo.

Stationmaster female NMBS in coat and shirt
Stationmaster, right: winter clothes, left: summer clothes | Photos: © NMBS
Stationmaster female NMBS in coat, shirt and face mask
Stationmaster | Photo: © NMBS
New uniform for Belgian rail employees
Stationmaster | Photo: © NMBS
Train conductor NMBS in new uniform
Train conductor | Photos: © NMBS
Train conductor NMBS 2020
Train conductor | Photos: © NMBS
NMBS new uniform 2020
Counter clerk | Photo: © NMBS
train attendants NMBS in new blue uniform
Left: station master, center and right: train attendants | Photo: © NMBS

The old uniforms will be recycled by Xandres NV, for example, they will turn them into insulation materials. This is also the plan for the new uniforms when they are no longer in use.

NMBS uniform

When I initially saw the new uniforms, I was not overly impressed. Different neutral shades of blue together are nothing new. In that respect, I think the Deutsche Bahn collection, with dark blue, white and burgundy, is a lot more chic and unique.

However, when I compare the new collection with the previous one, I do see a lot of progress. For example, there is now a clear difference between summer and winter clothing. In addition, instead of only choosing between trousers or a skirt, the ladies can now also opt for a dress.

Moreover, the new colors feel much fresher and look more businesslike. And finally, let’s not forget the sustainable aspect. NMBS has definitely scored points with this.

What do you think about the new clothes?

Want to read more about uniforms in the railway industry?

Also check:

Greetings,

Aileen

Last update: 24/04/2026


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2 Comments

  1. I traveled in Europe (Holland, Luxembourg, Belgium, Germany, Austria and Denmark) in 1985. I am writing a memoir, trying to remember what clothing other railway crew members wore versus that of conductors at that time. I would really appreciate it if you can send me any information in this regard.

    Thank you very much.

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