'A Scout does not use a showy uniform, because it would attract attention; but Scouts in a Patrol should as far as possible dress alike',
Baden-Powell, 'Scouting for Boys Part 1' 1908
Scout Uniform through the Years
1908
| Hat | Khaki colour, flat brim, strap round crown and chin strap. |
| Neckerchief | Of one colour for the Troop worn loosely knotted at the throat and also at the ends. |
| Shirt | Blue, khaki, green or grey two patch pockets (buttoned), shoulder straps or a jersey or sweater of the same colour, if preferred. |
| Shorts | Blue or khaki. |
| Belt | Brown leather; swivels, coat straps, pouch optional; buckles of a dull metal; approved design of a belt is obtainable from Headquarters. |
| Stockings | Dark colour or khaki, coloured tops optional, green garters with tabs showing outside of leg. Stockings are worn turned down below the knee. |
| Shoes | Black or brown. |
| Staff | Marked in feet and inches. |
Circa mid 1920s
The woggle is 'invented' as a means of fastening the scarf.
'For the boy a uniform is a big attraction, and when it is a dress such as backwoodsmen wear it takes him in imagination to be directly linked up with those frontiersmen who are heroes to him. The uniform also makes for Brotherhood, since when universally adopted it covers up all differences of class and country.'
Baden Powell, 'Lessons from the Varsity of Life', 1933
Circa 1950s
The beret is an alternative to the Scout hat Grey shorts available in addition to blue and khaki.
1967
| Shirt | Dark green long sleeve shirt with two pockets without pleats. |
| Scarf | Group scarf and woggle. |
| Trousers | Mushroom long trousers without turn ups. |
| Socks | Fawn. |
| Shoes | Black or brown. |
| Belt | Brown leather belt with buckle bearing Scout badge. |
| Beret | Green. |
| Outer coat | Green. |
1990s
Headgear abolished.
Other forms of smart or activity trousers could be worn as decided locally depending on the nature of the activity being undertaken.
The Scout Association Archives Department
February 2001
