Irish flag carrier Aer Lingus has announced changes to its uniform and staff policies.

It has said that its new uniform will include "a range of wearer options".

This will see a trouser option for female staff, and an ability to combine different elements.

"The new uniform collection was designed in partnership with a number of our staff to reflect changing dress norms and to better meet the needs of our guest-facing colleagues", the company said in a statement.

It has also confirmed that the new guidelines from November will mean the use of make-up for staff is no longer mandatory.

"Aer Lingus uniform staff guidelines for the new uniform are currently being completed, but Aer Lingus can confirm that these will not include mandatory use of make-up", it added.

Louise Kennedy | Image: Aer Lingus

The carrier originally announced plans to change the 20-year-old uniform design last March.

The redesign is being led by Irish designer Louise Kennedy, and will be worn by all frontline ground agents and cabin crew.

The 'teal green' uniform currently being used was also designed by Kennedy, and has been the longest-running Aer Lingus uniform.

The changes are part of a re-brand that was announced in January.

It was the carrier's first re-brand under parent company International Airlines Group (IAG).

Aer Lingus was bought from the State by IAG in 2015.