For over a century, the Gsusa Uniform has been more than just clothing; it’s a symbol of the Girl Scouts’ ideals and a reflection of evolving styles. This iconic attire has journeyed through decades, adapting to societal shifts and the changing needs of young girls and adult leaders alike. From its practical beginnings to today’s versatile collections, the GSUSA uniform tells a story of empowerment, progress, and enduring spirit.
Juliette Gordon Low in a Girl Scout uniform
The story of the GSUSA uniform begins in 1914, when manufacturing of official uniforms commenced. Initially, blue was the standard color ordered by Juliette Gordon Low, with khaki available only upon special request. However, the practicality of khaki quickly won over the Girl Scouts, who favored it for outdoor pursuits like hiking and camping. By 1928, khaki became the established norm, marking the beginning of a continuous evolution in GSUSA uniform design.
The 1920s showcased the early style of GSUSA uniforms. In 1924, photos captured Juliette Gordon Low and Girl Scouts planting a tree, their elegant hats featuring the Trefoil, a prominent symbol of Girl Scouting.
Juliette Gordon Low and Girl Scouts planting a tree in 1924
A 1925 image highlights the subtle variations within the GSUSA uniform of the time, showing Juliette Gordon Low with two Girl Scouts. One scout wears a shirt dress, while the other sports a two-piece ensemble, a skirt and blouse, demonstrating early options in GSUSA uniform styles. Patches on the sleeves were already a recognizable feature, signifying achievements and affiliations.
Juliette Gordon Low with Girl Scouts in varied 1925 uniforms
By 1928, “Girl Scout green” became the new color standard for GSUSA uniforms, as seen in photos of Girl Scouts enjoying camping. This shift to green marked a significant visual change and solidified a color association that remains iconic to this day.
Girl Scouts camping in 1928 wearing new green uniforms
The GSUSA uniform continued to evolve through the 1930s, exemplified by a 1930 photograph of Girl Scout Jeanne at the International Festival in Chicago.
Girl Scout Jeanne at the International Festival in Chicago in 1930
In 1935, Girl Scout Mariners were pictured, showcasing a nautical-themed GSUSA uniform variation, reflecting the diverse activities within Girl Scouting.
Girl Scout Mariners in 1935 showcasing nautical uniforms
A unique accessory from 1938, a basket backpack, highlighted the functional aspect of the GSUSA uniform, catering to outdoor adventures.
Girl Scout with a basket backpack accessory in 1938
During the Great Depression, while Girl Scouts contributed to relief efforts, GSUSA uniform silhouettes were updated with berets, reflecting early 1930s fashion trends.
In the 1940s, a photo of Girl Scouts practicing knot-tying emphasized the skill-building aspect of scouting, alongside the consistently evolving GSUSA uniform.
Girl Scouts practicing knot-tying skills in the 1940s
Wartime in 1944 brought material restrictions, leading to changes in GSUSA uniform details like button-fronts replacing zippers. Designer Mainbocher created a Senior Girl Scout uniform, showcasing high-fashion influence on GSUSA uniform design.
A 1948 image contrasted an older and newer GSUSA uniform version, the latter designed by Mainbocher, featuring a longer skirt and button-down front.
Comparison of old and new GSUSA uniforms in 1948
Another charming 1948 photo captured a Girl Scout troop with a cat, highlighting the community aspect of Girl Scouts, with the GSUSA uniform as a unifying element.
Girl Scout troop portrait with a cat in 1948
Girl Scout camp memories in 1957 were captured, with the GSUSA uniform present in the backdrop of these formative experiences.
Girl Scouts at camp in 1957
The 1960s brought social change and calls for GSUSA uniform updates. Girl Scouts requested pants, waistline-free designs, and easy-care fabrics, reflecting a move towards more practical and comfortable attire. A 1960s photo shows Girl Scout Cadettes engaged in community work, their GSUSA uniforms adapting to more active roles.
Girl Scout Cadettes in the 1960s engaged in community service
The 1970s saw further GSUSA uniform evolution. By 1973, Junior Girl Scouts could mix and match separates for varied looks. A 1970 photo of a Brownie with a pet highlights the enduring charm of the Brownie GSUSA uniform.
Girl Scout Brownie with a pet in 1970
Sisterhood and camaraderie were captured in a 1978 photo of Girl Scout Cadettes, their GSUSA uniforms representing unity and belonging.
Girl Scout Cadettes in 1978 showcasing sisterhood
Smiles and good times were evident in a 1978 picture, with the GSUSA uniform as a consistent thread through joyful moments.
Smiling Girl Scouts in 1978
“On my honor” a 1981 photo of a Senior Girl Scout, reinforced the values associated with the GSUSA uniform and Girl Scout promise.
Senior Girl Scout in 1981 reciting the Girl Scout promise
1984 marked the launch of the Girl Scout Daisy program and a new GSUSA uniform for the youngest scouts.
Girl Scout Daisies in 1984 wearing the Daisy uniform
Decorated sashes were proudly displayed by Senior Girl Scouts in 1992, showcasing personal expression within the GSUSA uniform framework.
Senior Girl Scouts in 1992 showcasing decorated sashes
The 1990s style was captured in a 1993 “party time” photo, reflecting the decade’s fashion influences on the GSUSA uniform.
Girl Scouts in 1993 showcasing 1990s style
By 1995, Cadette and Senior GSUSA uniforms included royal blue skirts or shorts, striped blouses, bandanas, and insignia vests, creating a distinct look for these age levels.
Cadette and Senior Girl Scouts in 1995 in royal blue uniforms
A shift in 2001 changed Cadette and Senior uniforms to khaki with light and navy blue blouses respectively, marking another color evolution in the GSUSA uniform history.
Smiles and casual comfort were featured in a 2006 photo, with Girl Scouts wearing vests, highlighting the vest as a key component of the GSUSA uniform.
Girl Scouts in 2006 wearing vests in a casual style
Vest trains adorned with badges in 2019 showcased personalization and achievement within the GSUSA uniform.
Girl Scout vest train with badges in 2019
The 2020 Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador GSUSA uniform collection prioritized individuality and self-expression, designed by young designers from the Fashion Institute of Technology.
2020 GSUSA Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador uniform windbreaker
Sustainability and vintage inspiration marked the 2021 Daisy, Brownie, and Junior GSUSA official apparel and accessories update, using eco-conscious materials.
2021 GSUSA Daisy, Brownie, and Junior sustainable uniforms
Finally, 2022 introduces a new versatile GSUSA adult apparel and accessories collection, completing the uniform refresh with gender-inclusive styles and extended sizes. This collection is designed for comfort and style, suitable for various Girl Scout events.
2022 GSUSA adult apparel collection
From its inception to the present day, the GSUSA uniform has mirrored the Girl Scouts’ journey – adapting, evolving, and always embodying the spirit of empowerment, service, and sisterhood. Explore the latest GSUSA adult uniform collection and celebrate over a century of Girl Scout style! Visit girlscoutshop.com to discover the new collection.
References:
The Cut of the Cloth, A Brief History of the Girl Scout Uniform, GSUSA, 1999
GSUSA Archives “A Century of Girl Scout Uniforms,” GSCCCblog, 2019, Girl Scouts of California’s Central Coast
