The old saying that 'clothes make the man' (or woman) is being taken to heart by TTC CEO Andy Byford.

Plans are in the works to give TTC drivers and fare collectors a new look with a fresh colour palette.

Byford says its time to ditch the puffy maroon parkas and faded blue golf shirts that are part of the current uniform that was introduced back in the early 1990's.

"The uniform itself is a bit dated and not the most comfortable so we're working with (TTC) staff to come up with a new look," says Byford.

He says that the uniforms his workers wear now are looking tired and worn-out, the opposite image that Byford wants to create for the TTC as the service updates its vehicles and services.

"(The uniform) looks more like something out of the '70s and its had its day."

Byford adds that the project is still in its very early stages but the goal is to design a uniform his workers will be proud to wear.

"We want something that is refreshed, modern and critically, that the staff feel good to wear," he says.

That could involve adding new colours to the mix, with blue being mentioned by Byford as an option.  He says one suggestion from his staff was to include the maple leaf somewhere in the design, which may also be considered.

He believes that transit riders will have more respect for TTC workers if they look sharp while on the job and adds that employees themselves are likely to provide better service to riders if they feel that they are putting their best foot forward.

In addition to being more stylish, Byford says the new uniforms have to be comfortable, practical and durable, noting that staff have complained that the current uniforms do not breathe well and fade quickly in the wash.

Byford says that city contracts with uniform suppliers run out over the next 2 years and that new uniform orders will have to be placed anyway.

He believes a switch to a new uniform can be done with minimal cost because the updated design can be phased in.

Workers should get their new uniforms by 2014.