Funky designer dresses British judges

LONDON, May 13 (UPI) -- British judges said they are preparing to scrap horsehair wigs and old robes as a designer known for making "funky British clothes" gives them a new look.

British judges will take leave of their traditional legal garb in October, when a fresh design by Betty Jackson, whose tag is "funky British clothes for aspiring funky British girls," becomes the required court-wear, The Times of London reported.

The new robes will feature distinctly colored bands to indicate seniority and will take the place of wigs, wing collars, bands and the black gown, the Times said.

Nicholas Phillips of Worth Matravers, the senior judge and the lord chief justice, said the new robes have been met with some resistance, but overall, they are a strong choice.

"I've not got 100 percent support but I have the majority. I hope that after wearing the new gown for a while everyone will be happy," he said.