Girlguiding has introduced a completely new uniform range across all its groups, marking the first full redesign in more than 30 years. The overhaul, which launched on Monday, places a strong emphasis on fostering self-expression, a sense of belonging, and confidence among its young members. A key change sees the relaxation of previous uniform rules, meaning Guides, Rainbows, Brownies, and Rangers now only need to wear a designated top to meetings and activities to be considered 'in uniform'.
This significant shift in policy stems from extensive feedback gathered from thousands of girls within the organisation, who indicated they felt 'most comfortable' when given the freedom to choose what they wear. The charity highlighted that the two-year redesign project, led by Hemingway Design and incorporating input from 55,000 girls and women, balances Girlguiding's rich heritage and brand recognition with contemporary colours and design features. New elements include hidden pockets, thumb holes, and badge sashes that can also be used as cross-body bags.
Felicity Oswald, Girlguiding's chief executive officer, underscored the intent behind the new range, stating it is about providing girls with the liberty to express themselves while still feeling an integral part of the organisation. She emphasised that practicality, comfort, and sustainability were central to the designs. Ms Oswald also drew a direct link between self-expression and confidence, noting that girls in guiding are reportedly 30% more confident, and the new uniform is intended to further cultivate this confidence and a sense of belonging.
A survey conducted by Girlguiding in June, involving 2,000 girls aged six to 16 across the UK, reinforced the need for such changes. The findings revealed that 93% of respondents feel most comfortable when they can choose their own style. Furthermore, nearly half (47%) stated they felt most confident when able to select their attire, and a third (33%) linked confidence to the freedom of self-expression. A notable 41% of those surveyed also felt that strict school uniform rules hindered their ability to express themselves.
The new uniform offers approximately 30 new clothing items and 15 accessories and neckerchiefs, providing ample choice for the charity's 300,000 members and 80,000 volunteers. Old uniforms can be upcycled into new accessories through free workshops planned for the summer. This uniform launch precedes a notable change in Girlguiding's membership policy, effective from 6 September 2026, which will require transgender girls to leave the organisation. This decision, made in March, follows an announcement last year that transgender girls would no longer be able to join, limiting membership to 'girls and young women' in light of the 2025 Supreme Court ruling on biological sex.