Scouts Launch Muslim Uniform For Girls, Designed By Sarah Elenany

Muslim Girls Get New Scout Uniform
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The Scout Association has launched a new uniform for Muslim girls after seeing a rise in numbers from the faith joining the organisation.

A long-sleeved "hoodie dress" and a T-shirt dress, will be available to wear during activities such as abseiling and climbing following requests from the Muslim community.

The knee-length outfits feature a graphic print inspired by Scout badges and activities and have been designed by Sarah Elenany, a 27-year-old British designer of Palestinian and Egyptian origin.

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The Scout Association - founded in 1907 - said more than a third of all scouts worldwide now are Muslim with an estimated 2,000 Muslim scouts in the UK.

There are around 40 active UK scout groups with a predominantly Muslim membership.

The designs have been launched as the association's last census showed that for the first time, more girls than boys are joining the movement, with an 88% rise in female youth membership since 2005 to 66,576.

UK chief scout, the adventurer Bear Grylls, said: "With this new clothing range scouting is continuing to move with the times and adapt to the growing number of people from different communities who are choosing to be a part of the movement.

"Scouting has something to offer everyone, no matter your religion, ethnicity or belief, and I'm so proud that we offer an environment for people of all backgrounds to come together and enjoy themselves."

Syed Miah, national development officer for the Muslim Scout Fellowship, said: "It's essential to continue to make scouting accessible to all.

"We welcome all communities and this initiative helps to ensure that no-one misses out on the numerous benefits and adventure of scouting, because they feel it is 'not for them'."

The hoodie dress will be available from today with the T-shirt dress due to be ready in time for the summer. Both outfits are designed to be worn over trousers, jeans or leggings.

Chris Foster, spokesman for the Scout Association, said: "There are an awful lot of people out there who still think that scouts are just a Christian-based organisation whereas it encompasses all different faiths," he said.

"It doesn't matter who you are, what you are or what colour your skin is or what faith you are."

In light of the recent design, we took a look back at some rather outdated outfits...