As we celebrate 130 years of St Hilda’s, we reflect on the many changes that have shaped our School. From buildings and teachers to programs and students, much has evolved since our earliest days.
One element that has undergone many changes, yet still reflects the history and legacy of St Hilda’s, is the uniform. Take a look at the evolution of our uniform over the years, below.
The Early Years: Tradition and Formality
After first opening in 1896 and a few years without uniforms, St Hilda’s, formerly known as Girls’ High School (GHS) introduced a shirt and pinafore uniform for Junior through to Senior students.
The uniform of the early years emphasised discipline, uniformity and respectability, values that were central to education in this era.
1917 – GHS Uniform
1918 – GHS Junior Students
Sport has long been an important part of life at St Hilda’s. In the early years, sports uniforms looked very different to the uniforms of today. Allowing more movement than formal uniforms, but maintaining the long hems and loose silhouettes, these uniforms allowed girls to participate in sports more freely, while still relecting the social expectations of young women at the time.
1922 – GHS Hockey Uniform
Mid-Century Change: New Name, New Uniform
In the 1930s, Girls’ High School was renamed as St Hilda’s Church of England School for Girls and the Senior School uniform transitioned from the original pinafore and shirt to a skirt and shirt, while keeping a dress for Summer.
1933 – St Hilda’s Senior School Uniform
1934 – Senior School Students Supporting at the Girls Secondary Sports Association Carnival
The Junior School uniform remained as a pinafore and shirt combination, while changing slightly to align with the new St Hilda’s colours.
1935 – Junior School Boarders
Throughout this time, there were a few variations of the uniform, including those for Summer, Winter, sport and for when Boarders went out.
1938 – Boarders Shopping on St George’s Tce
1939 – Summer Uniform
1951 – Tennis Uniform
1952 – Winter Uniform
Late 20th Century: A Change in Times
The later part of the twentieth century brought further shifts. Uniforms became more reflective of contemporary style, while still maintaining St Hilda’s identity and sense of cohesion.
In the 1960s, hemlines got shorter, reflecting broader social and cultural change. As fashion embraced youthfulness and freedom of movement, the St Hilda’s uniform evolved to mirror the times.
During the 1990s, the Summer uniform moved from the dress to the skirt and shirt combination, very similar to the Summer uniform we have today.
The variety of specialised sport uniforms remained, however with slight adjustments.
1969 – Winter Uniform
1969 – Summer Uniform
1970 – Athletics Uniform
1970s – Netball Uniform
1980s – Summer Uniform
1980s – Winter Uniform
1993 – Interschool Athletics
1995 – New Summer Uniform
Modern Day: Traditions Meet Modernity
Since the turn of the 21st century, changes to the St Hilda’s uniform have been minimal, but made to reflect a more cohesive, modern aesthetic while honouring tradition.
Today’s St Hilda’s uniform honours the School’s proud history while embracing modern needs. Thoughtfully designed pieces balance tradition with practicality, offering versatility, inclusivity and durability.
Recent new additions to the uniform include pants for Senior School and skorts for younger years in Junior School.
The uniform reflects the characteristics of today’s St Hilda’s student: confident, capable and forward-thinking. It supports learning, movement and self-expression, while continuing to unite students as part of a shared community, just as it has for 130 years.
Current – Winter and Summer Senior School Uniforms
Current – Sports Uniform
Current – Junior School Uniform
Current – Junior School Early Learning Centre Uniform
More Than Fabric
Across generations, the St Hilda’s uniform has carried countless memories: first days of school, friendships formed, milestones celebrated and farewells felt. While styles, fabrics and designs have changed, the purpose of the uniform has remained the same: to foster belonging, pride and a shared sense of identity.
As we look back on 130 years of St Hilda’s, the evolution of the uniform tells a powerful story of progress, adaptability and enduring tradition. It is a reminder that while much has changed, the Spirit of St Hilda’s and the last 130 years of excellence remain and will continue into the future.
