The navy blue uniform, officially known as the Navy Working Uniform (NWU), is a cornerstone of the U.S. Navy, embodying professionalism and readiness. This guide serves as your comprehensive resource to understanding the regulations, authorized wear, and essential components of the NWU, ensuring you adhere to the highest standards of naval uniform policy.
Understanding the Navy Working Uniform (NWU)
The NWU is designed for daily wear in operational and training environments. It is crucial for all Navy personnel to be well-versed in the specific guidelines governing its use. This article compiles key information derived directly from official U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations to provide clarity and ensure compliance.
NWU Fit and Wear
Proper fit is paramount for both professional appearance and functionality. Refer to the official NWU Fit Guide for detailed instructions on achieving the correct fit for your NWU. This guide provides essential details on sizing and adjustments to ensure your uniform is both comfortable and regulation-compliant.
Authorized Outerwear and Accessories
The NWU is versatile and can be adapted for various climates with authorized outerwear. The NWU Black Fleece Liner Conversion Kit details the use of fleece liners for added warmth in colder conditions, ensuring functionality without compromising uniform standards.
Footwear is another critical aspect of the uniform. The NWU Authorized Boot Listing provides an up-to-date list of approved boots for wear with the NWU. Adhering to this list ensures both safety and uniform compliance.
Grooming and Personal Appearance Standards
Maintaining a sharp and professional appearance is a key aspect of wearing the navy blue uniform. Navy regulations provide specific guidelines on grooming and personal appearance.
Hair Regulations and Permanent Make-up
Regulations extend to hair and personal adornments. For detailed guidance on female hair regulations, consult the Female Hair Regulations All-Hands Magazine. For information on permanent make-up policies, refer to the Permanent make-up FAQ document. These resources ensure you understand the parameters for authorized personal appearance while in uniform.
Pseudofolliculitis Barbae (PFB)
Pseudofolliculitis Barbae (PFB), a skin condition affecting some individuals, also has specific Navy guidelines. PFB Instruction (BUPERSINST 1000.22C) provides detailed instructions for managing this condition within uniform regulations. Additionally, the PFB Commanding Officer’s Toolkit and NAVPERS 1000/1 – PFB Temporary Shaving Waiver and Treatment Regimen offer further resources and forms related to temporary shaving waivers and treatment regimens for PFB.
Uniform Regulations and Policies: FAQs
The Navy Uniform Regulations are comprehensive, and questions often arise regarding specific aspects of uniform wear. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions, directly based on official regulations.
Are umbrellas authorized when wearing NWUs?
Yes. U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations authorize the optional use of an umbrella with the Navy Working Uniform (NWU). Chapter 3 of the Navy Uniform Regulations details authorized components for Navy Uniforms, including optional items like umbrellas.
Are specific types of wristwatches or bracelets authorized while wearing the Navy uniform?
Yes, with limitations. U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations, Chapter 2, 2201 – Personal Appearance, Section 2, Article 2201.6 (e) and (f) outline the rules for bracelets and wristwatches.
- Bracelets: Must be conservative and not distract from a professional military appearance. Materials can be natural metals or fabricated materials (plastic, wood, silicone, stone). Authorized colors are solid black, brown, dark green, grey, navy blue, tan, white, copper, gold, and silver only. Only one bracelet is authorized. Wearing a bracelet and a wristwatch/smartwatch/fitness tracker on the same wrist is prohibited. Ankle bracelets are not authorized. Bracelets must not pose a safety or FOD hazard.
- Wristwatch/Smartwatch/Fitness Tracker: Must be conservative and not a uniform distraction. Only one wristwatch/smartwatch or fitness tracker and one bracelet can be worn simultaneously (one on each wrist). Smartwatches and fitness trackers are subject to security regulations. Authorized colors are solid black, brown, dark green, grey, navy blue, tan, white, copper, gold (metal), silver (metal), and gold/silver combination (metal).
Do Navy Sailors need to follow Marine Corps policy when wearing MARPATs?
Yes. Navy personnel assigned to Marine Corps units and wearing Marine Corps uniforms must adhere to Marine Corps uniform policy, except for the zero fade hairstyle requirement for male Sailors. U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations, Chapter 2, Section 1, Article 2101.2 clarifies this: “NAVY PERSONNEL ASSIGNED TO MARINE CORPS. Sailors assigned to U.S. Marine Corps units who wear the Marine Corps uniform will abide by Marine Corps grooming standards except for the requirement of a zero fade hairstyle for male Sailors. See article 6501.4.”
Are command t-shirts with logos authorized with NWU Type II/III, Navy coveralls, and Navy flight suits?
Yes, as optional wear. U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations, Chapter 3, Section 5/6, Article 3603.2 states that Commanding Officers can authorize command logos on t-shirts for optional wear with working/utility uniforms (NWU Type II/III, Navy coveralls, and Flight suits).
- Logos can be heat transferred, silk-screened, or embroidered on 100% cotton t-shirts.
- Logos should be conservative, enhance unit esprit de corps, and reflect positively on the Navy and unit.
- Placement: Front logo (left side, above breast, max 3 inches height/width), back logo (centered, entire back).
- Colors: Conservative, non-reflective, and not visible when worn with the uniform shirt, coveralls, or flight suit.
Are socks required with minimalist footwear?
Yes. Athletic socks are required with athletic footwear. U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations, Chapter 3, Section 5/6, Article 3601.4 states: “Wear with athletic socks and close all fasteners.”
Is a belt required with the Service Khaki Overblouse?
Generally, yes. U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations, Chapter 3, Section 5/6, Article 3501.72 for Female Officers/CPOs states: “Button all buttons, close all fasteners, and wear a belt through all loops.” However, there is an exception: Female officers and CPOs can optionally wear male Service Khaki trousers and female Service Khaki slacks without a belt and buckle with the khaki Overblouse only.
What is the Navy policy for wearing the Brown Aviation Leather Flight Jacket?
U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations, Chapter 6, Section 8, Article 6803.3.b.(2) states: “Close zipper at least 3/4 of the way when worn.” Management and control are detailed in OPNAVINST 10126.4 series.
Can personal cell phones be worn on the belt while in uniform?
Yes. U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations, Chapter 2, Section 1, Article 2101.3c outlines the policy:
- Communication devices (cell phones, blackberries, pagers, etc.) are authorized in uniform (including while walking).
- Conditions: Conservative color and design, not distracting, only one device authorized, worn on the belt of Working and Service Uniforms aft of the elbow, not visible from the front, and not impeding uniform appearance.
- Not authorized on service dress uniforms.
- Commanding Officer discretion applies for operational security concerns.
- Use must not interfere with military courtesies or violate laws.
- When not worn on the uniform and in use during courtesies, hold at the side of the leg.
- Earpieces, Bluetooth, headsets, or hands-free devices are prohibited indoors or outdoors unless officially authorized (e.g., NSW, security).
- Hands-free devices are allowed in vehicles if authorized by law, with potential base restrictions by Regional Commanders.
Can women carry civilian purses while in uniform?
Yes, if compliant with regulations. U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations, Chapter 3, Section 5/6, Article 3501.25 details the requirements:
- Description: Plain black, brown, or white leather or synthetic leather, rectangular or square, magnetic or zipper closure. Color matches shoe color. Dimensions: 5 1/2 – 16 inches wide, 5 1/2 – 14 inches high, 2 – 6 inches deep. One visible manufacturer’s logo (max 2x2x2 inches). No exotic materials, ornamentation, decorative stitching, or embossed designs (except logo). Flaps are optional. Black, silver, or gold-colored closure hardware (no oversized buckles or string ties). Strap of same material with silver, gold, or black buckle. Commercially procured if criteria are met.
- Correct Wear: Over left shoulder, on left forearm, or in left hand. Body of handbag between natural waist and upper hip.
What is the policy for wearing the Knit Cap (Watch Cap)?
U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations, Chapter 1, Section 5, Article 1501.1b and Chapter 3, Section 5/6, Article 3501.11 outline the policy:
- Correct Wear: Single fold (3 1/2 – 4 inches diagonally), from back of head across ears to forehead, bottom of fold one-fourth inch above eyebrows. Snug fit. No rank/rate insignia.
- Authorized in cold weather conditions to prevent injury.
- Worn with reefer, overcoat/bridge coat, peacoat, all-weather coat, cold weather parka, and NWU parka. Optionally with PTU in cold weather.
What are the embossing guidelines for the Navy Uniform Leather Name Patch?
U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations, Chapter 5, Section 2, Article 5201.4.b and Chapter 6, Section 8, Article 6803.2.b.(2).(a).(2) specify:
- Velcro Backed Leather Nametag: Plain black leather, 2″x4″. Gold embossing for officers/CPOs, silver for E1-E6. Block letters, 1/4 inch high. Name, rank/rate, and duty status (USN). One earned breast insignia (patrol pins not authorized) embossed above the name. Warfare/qualification insignia abbreviations in parenthesis authorized (e.g., SW/AW/SS). No officer’s crest/rank insignia, enlisted rank insignia, or specialty marks.
- Billet title (CO, XO, CAG, etc.) is optional only on the Aviation Brown Leather Flight Jacket.
When is the Green Flight Jacket authorized to be worn?
U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations, Chapter 6, Section 8, Article 6803.2b(1) specifies:
- Authorized Jackets: CWU-45/P Winter Flyers Jacket, CWU-36/P Summer Flyers Jacket, Multi-Climate Fleece Jacket, Climate Fleece Vest, Multi-Climate Shell Jacket.
- Worn with flight suits, but not authorized off-base. Sage Green or tan jackets with green or tan flight suits. Vest only with green or tan flight suit.
- Sage green jackets can be worn with Working Khaki, Utilities, and other working uniforms in the immediate area if command-issued. Not authorized with service uniforms (with ribbons).
- Zipper zipped at least 3/4. Clean and serviceable condition required.
- Consult local uniform prescribing authority guidelines. Area/regional coordinators (OPNAV P09B2-105) issue uniform policy within their regions (Table 1-2-1 of Navy Uniform Regulations). Address uniform of the day and organizational clothing questions to area/regional coordinator. All Navy personnel must wear prescribed uniform for their rate/rank.
Are Sailors allowed to walk and talk on command-issued or personal cell phones while in uniform?
Yes, provided it complies with U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations, Chapter 2, Section 1, Article 2101.3.c.(1).(a) through (i), as detailed in the previous question about cell phone policy.
Under what conditions, if any, can Navy personnel wear Under-Armor undershirts?
Navy Uniform Regulations do not authorize “Under-Armor” brand shirts as undershirts. U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations, Chapter 3, Section 5/6, Article 3603.2, Article 3501.101 and Chapter 6, Section 8, Article 6802.5.b specify: “Standard Shirt. Coyote brown, plain without lettering or designs, made of 100% cotton, quarter-length sleeve, with an elliptical (crew-neck) collar.” Undershirts must be brown, cotton, quarter-length sleeve, crew-neck. Thermal underwear (organization-issued or personal) is allowed underneath NWU Type II undershirt and trousers but must not be visible.
Conclusion: Maintaining Standards in Navy Blue Uniforms
Adherence to uniform regulations is a critical aspect of naval service. This guide, drawing directly from official U.S. Navy sources, provides a thorough overview of the Navy Working Uniform, its regulations, and frequently asked questions. By understanding and implementing these guidelines, Navy personnel uphold the professional standards and proud traditions associated with the navy blue uniform. For the most current and detailed information, always refer to the official U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations and related directives.
References:
- NWU Fit Guide
- NWU Black Fleece Liner Conversion Kit
- NWU Authorized Boot Listing
- Permanent make-up
- Female Hair Regulations All-Hands Magazine
- PFB Instruction (BUPERSINST 1000.22C)
- PFB Commanding Officer’s Toolkit
- NAVPERS 1000/1 – PFB Temporary Shaving Waiver and Treatment Regimen
- U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations, Chapter 2, 2201 – Personal Appearance, Section 2, Article 2201.6 (e) and (f)
- U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations, Chapter 2, Section 1, Article 2101.2
- article 6501.4
- U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations, Chapter 3, Section 5/6, Article 3603.2
- U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations, Chapter 3, Section 5/6, Article 3601.4
- U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations, Chapter 3, Section 5/6, Article 3501.72
- U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations, Chapter 6, Section 8, Article 6803.3.b.(2)
- OPNAVINST 10126.4 series
- U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations, Chapter 2, Section 1, Article 2101.3c
- U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations, Chapter 3, Section 5/6, Article 3501.25
- U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations, Chapter 1, Section 5, Article 1501.1b
- U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations, Chapter 3, Section 5/6, Article 3501.11
- U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations, Chapter 5, Section 2, Article 5201.4.b
- U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations, Chapter 6, Section 8, Article 6803.2.b.(2).(a).(2)
- U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations, Chapter 6, Section 8, Article 6803.2b(1)
- OPNAV P09B2-105
- Table 1-2-1 of the Navy Uniform Regulations
- U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations, Chapter 3, Section 5/6, Article 3603.2
- U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations, Chapter 3, Section 5/6, Article 3501.101
- U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations, Chapter 6, Section 8, Article 6802.5.b
