Girlguiding has unveiled the first major redesign of its uniform in more than 30 years, with the aim of allowing its members the "freedom to express themselves". Under the new, pared-back approach, members will only be required to wear a top from the new range to be considered "in uniform".
The new range has been inspired by feedback from thousands of Guides, Rainbows, Brownies and Rangers which suggested they valued choice and the ability to express their own style. Girlguiding chief executive Felicity Oswald said "practicality, comfort and sustainability" were at the centre of the redesign, which updates the 1990 version of the uniform.
What does the new uniform include?
The organisation said the uniform combines the charity's heritage with modern colours and prints. The range is made up of 30 items of clothing, 15 accessories and neckerchiefs - with prices starting at £12, for a T-shirt.
Design features include hidden pockets in waist bands, thumb holes, and badge sashes which double as cross-body bags. This is the first time in 30 years Girlguiding has updated its entire range at the same time.
Oswald said the range was "all about providing girls with the freedom to express themselves, whilst feeling part of our amazing organisation".
Members do not have to buy the new range straightaway, the website explains, and they can continue to wear the old uniform until they need a replacement.
What did members say about the redesign?
A Girlguiding survey in June of 2,000 girls aged six to 16 in the UK found that 93% said they felt most comfortable when able to choose how they styled themselves. The new uniform range follows that feedback, with the charity saying the redesign is intended to give members more choice while still keeping a sense of belonging.
Angellica Bell, a Girlguiding ambassador and presenter, said the new design gives "girls and volunteers the freedom to style it the way that suits them".
She added: "The new uniform empowers girls and volunteers to embrace their individuality."
How does it relate to Girlguiding’s history?
The update marks the first time in 30 years that Girlguiding has refreshed its entire uniform range at once, moving on from the 1990 design while keeping links to the organisation's heritage. The new colours and prints are intended to look modern while remaining recognisably part of Girlguiding.
Girlguiding uniforms from the 1990s
