When we launched Ivy & Normanton in 2020 as the UK’s first court outfitter dedicated to women, our goal was to make court wear that reflected both the tradition of the legal profession and the diversity of the women now working within it. One of the proudest moments in that journey came when we created something that had simply never existed before: a hijab designed specifically for female barristers.
The idea began, as the best ideas often do, with a conversation.
Maryam Mir, a criminal barrister and a long-time friend from university, mentioned how difficult it was to find a hijab that was appropriate for court. There was nothing officially provided, and no clear guidance. Most hijab-wearing barristers were left to navigate a patchwork of unsuitable options, adapting off-the-shelf pieces in ways that were often uncomfortable, impractical, or didn’t quite align with the formality of traditional court dress.
It struck us both as remarkable that in a profession so steeped in symbolism and precision, no one had ever made this simple accommodation. So, we decided to do it ourselves.
From the outset, it was clear this couldn't just be a hijab in name, it had to meet the exacting standards of legal attire, while being functional, respectful, and comfortable. Maryam brought her insight as a practising advocate, making sure the final design would be something a barrister could wear all day in court, moving confidently through hearings, cross-examinations, and late-night case prep.
We trialled a range of materials, but landed on bamboo silk, a soft, breathable fabric that offers comfort in both summer and winter, with a subtle finish that complements the rest of the court outfit. The hijab needed to tuck seamlessly into the collar and sit neatly against a suit, but more importantly, it needed to allow the wearer to feel like they belonged in every part of the courtroom.
We designed two colour options — black and white — reflecting the styles we’d seen in practice: black more common in magistrates’ courts, and white in the Crown Court.
This was more than just a piece of clothing. For us, and for the women who wear it, it’s about visibility, dignity, and ease. It's about showing that inclusion doesn’t require the abandonment of tradition, but rather, the thoughtful adaptation of it.
Since the launch, we’ve heard from barristers, students, and aspiring advocates who finally feel seen. Some told us they’d been trying to find something suitable for years. Others said it was the first time they’d felt comfortable walking into court in their own skin. And perhaps most moving of all, we’ve heard from future barristers who, for the first time, could picture themselves in the profession without compromise.
Our legal system still has a long way to go when it comes to representation and uniform shouldn’t be a barrier to entry. With the Ivy & Normanton hijab, we’ve taken one small but meaningful step toward a more inclusive future for the Bar.
To those who wear it — thank you for inspiring its creation. You belong here.