Girlguiding redesigns uniform "to be styled any way the girls want"

British youth organisation Girlguiding has unveiled the first update to its formerly regimented uniform in 30 years, intended to allow more freedom of expression.

Completed in collaboration with London studio Hemingway Design, the redesign includes 30 garments and 15 accessories and neckerchiefs created for Girlguilding‘s four age groups known as Rainbows, Brownies, Guides and Rangers.

Hemingway Design consulted 55,000 girls and women part of the groups, who co-designed the new uniform alongside the studio.

Although the range includes various garments, the emphasis is on a series of colourful tops that Girlguiding members can wear with any other items of their own clothing and still be considered in full uniform, from T-shirts to long-sleeves or hoodies.

The move comes in stark contrast with Girlguiding’s previous, more formal uniforms, which were last updated in 1990 by British fashion designer Jeff Banks.

Research from Girlguiding found that 93 per cent of members, aged six to 16 years old, feel most comfortable when they can choose how to dress themselves. Forty-seven per cent of these girls agreed that they are at their most confident when they do so, too.

“Girlguiding’s new uniform has been designed to be styled any way the girls want,” said the youth organisation. “With a focus on self-expression and flexibility, to be considered in uniform, all members need to wear is a top from the new range.”

The collection is characterised by a series of design features specifically requested by young members, from secret pockets in the waistbands of leggings and shorts to badge sashes that double as useful cross-body bags.

Each of the age group’s garments and accessories were designed with colour schemes that represent their histories.

For example, the Brownies’ uniform was created in the group’s recognisable brown and yellow hues.

The new Girlguiding uniform is being launched shortly before 6 September, when transgender girls and women will be forced to leave the youth organisation after the 2025 UK Supreme Court ruling on biological sex.

Hemingway Design previously created the 100th anniversary logo for the Dreamland amusement park in Margate, Kent. The studio also collaborated with local designer James Shaw to transform the Shepherd’s Bush store interior for London charity shop, Traid.

The photography is courtesy of Girlguiding.

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