Girlguiding has introduced its first significant uniform redesign in over three decades, aiming to enhance inclusivity and self-expression among its members. The new uniform, launched on July 27, 2026, allows girls and young women across the UK to wear just a branded top—such as a t-shirt, long-sleeve shirt, or hoodie—to be considered “in uniform,” with other items like shorts, gilets, and caps offered as optional extras.

The refreshed range was developed over a two-year period in collaboration with design firm Hemmingway Design and garnered input from approximately 55,000 girls and women associated with the organisation. It features 30 garments alongside 15 accessories and neckerchiefs, many of which can be personalised for local, regional, and national events. Practical elements have been incorporated into the clothing, including hidden pockets in waistbands, thumb holes, and multifunctional badge sashes that can be worn as cross-body bags.

Survey data collected by Girlguiding in June 2026 from 2,000 girls aged six to 16 showed strong support for greater freedom in dress, with 93% of respondents indicating they felt most comfortable when allowed to style themselves. Additionally, 47% said they felt most confident when choosing what to wear, while 33% said freedom of expression was a key factor in their confidence. Around 41% felt that strict school uniform policies limited their ability to express themselves.

Felicity Oswald, chief executive officer of Girlguiding, described the redesign as balancing respect for the organisation’s traditional brand heritage with modern aesthetics, sustainability, and comfort. She emphasized the goal of fostering both confidence and belonging, noting that girls involved in guiding report being 30% more confident overall. “The new range is all about providing girls with the freedom to express themselves, whilst feeling part of our amazing organisation,” Oswald said.

Angellica Bell, a broadcaster and Girlguiding ambassador, highlighted the empowering aspect of the new uniform, which embraces individuality and offers practical, playful, and bold designs. She noted that the flexibility in styling allows both girls and volunteers to personalise their appearance within the framework of the organisation.

Girlguiding, which serves approximately 300,000 members aged four to 18 with the support of 80,000 volunteers, has a long history of uniform updates. The original uniform, introduced more than a century ago, consisted of a blue skirt and jumper for Guides and a brown tunic dress for Brownies. Over time, updates have reflected changes in fabric availability, activity types, and cultural trends, with the last major redesign implemented in 1990 and a minor update in 2014.

The launch of the new uniform comes shortly before Girlguiding implements a membership policy change scheduled for September 6, 2026. The updated policy limits membership to “girls and young women,” effectively excluding transgender girls who were previously admitted. This decision follows a 2025 Supreme Court ruling on biological sex. Girlguiding has stated it does not collect gender identity data and is uncertain how many current members or volunteers might be affected by this change. Previously, the organisation had briefly allowed the inclusion of male-born transgender members but reversed that decision following legal challenges.

As part of its commitment to sustainability, Girlguiding plans to offer free workshops to upcycle old uniforms into new accessories during the summer. The uniform redesign aims to reflect both the organisation’s heritage and its commitment to inclusiveness, comfort, and environmental responsibility.