Military uniform regulations have been present since the Revolutionary War. While the militia didn’t follow uniform regulations, the Continental Army did have specific uniform regulations. From the 1800s onward, as each service branch developed, military uniforms were made, and regulations became commonplace. As time moves forward, so do the uniform options and regulations.
Change in 2022 for the Navy
Facial Hair: Per NAVADMIN 0624/22, for those diagnosed with pseudofolliculitis barbae, beards may be outlined or edged, and a paper copy of the facial hair waiver treatment form is no longer required to be carried while in uniform.
Name Punctuation: Sailors whose legal names contain apostrophes, accent marks, tildes, and hyphens can be used in name tags or name tapes.
Heels: Uniform pumps are allowed up to 3 inches instead of the previous 2 and 5/8 inches.
Changes in 2022 for the Marine Corps
In March of 2022, MARDDMIN 134/22 was published and listed changes to uniform policy. It ranged from haircut changes to maternity uniform overhauls.
Manicures for Female Marines: in addition to clear and nude fingernail polish, French and ombre manicures are now authorized to wear with all uniforms.
Nametape Changes: Apostrophes, accent marks, tildes, and hyphens can now be included on the nametape as long as the space in the tape allows
Haircut changes: “edging up” undesirable hair that extends beyond the natural hairline is authorized as long as it provides a professional and natural appearance and the hair length has changed to 3 inches.
Boot socks: Both olive drab or black cushion socks may be worn with the Marine Corps Combat Utility Uniform in addition to brown socks.
Maternity Uniforms: The maternity tunic, maternity short, and long sleeve shirts have both tab and non-tab options. A maternity undershirt is now available for purchase, and those who receive a uniform allowance will receive a supplemental allowance from purchasing two shirts.
A nursing undershirt is now available. Maternity physical training shorts will tentatively be available in the fiscal year 2023.
As the year progresses, more changes could occur to the regulations. These are the updates as of this writing.
