Maintaining a sharp and standardized appearance is a cornerstone of the Marine Corps. Adherence to the Marine Corps uniform regulations, often referred to as “Marine Corps Uniform Regs”, is not just about looking the part; it’s about discipline, attention to detail, and upholding the proud traditions of the Corps. This guide breaks down key aspects of the current regulations, ensuring Marines stay informed and correctly outfitted.
Hair Grooming Standards: Staying Within Regulations
Recent updates have clarified hair grooming standards for Marines, particularly concerning hair length and styles.
For longer hair, the regulations emphasize that hair must be secured up, meaning no loose ends or portions falling naturally, except during authorized non-combat physical training. During non-combat PT, medium and long hair can be worn in an unsecured full ponytail or braid. Subtle hairpins and bobby pins are authorized for securing hairstyles. Barrettes and combs are also permitted if they match the hair color and are concealed. Ponytail holders should be hair-colored and inconspicuous but don’t need to be hidden. However, conspicuous hair accessories like headbands, scrunchies, alligator clips, and bows remain unauthorized. These points are essential for understanding current “marine corps uniform regs” concerning hairstyles.
Tattoo Policy Amplification
The Marine Corps has updated its tattoo policy, offering more clarity for Marines. The most current guidance is detailed in MCBul 1020, which is extended until October 29, 2023. A significant update is the rescinding of the prohibition on wearing the blue dress “A/B” and blue-white “A/B” uniforms with skirts if visible leg tattoos are present. This revised guidance is being incorporated into Change 1 of the Marine Corps Uniform Regulations. Marines considering new tattoos should always consult MCBul 1020 first to ensure compliance with “marine corps uniform regs” regarding body art.
Belt Regulations for the Female Dress Blue Coat
The introduction of the New Female Dress Blue Coat (FDBC) necessitated adjustments to belt wear regulations. As per MARADMIN 596/18, paragraph 3002 of the Uniform Regulations was updated. For all uniforms, belts are worn at the natural waistline. The buckle’s right edge should align with the fly or coat front’s edge for male uniforms. However, due to the FDBC closing in the opposite direction to the male coat, the female officer blue dress coat requires the buckle’s left edge to align with the coat front’s edge, with the belt end extending to the wearer’s left. This specific detail is crucial for female officers wearing the FDBC to adhere to “marine corps uniform regs”.
Cold Weather Gear: Field Gloves, Inserts, and Watchcaps
Regulations for cold weather gear have been standardized. Based on a CMC Decision Memo from January 10, 2018, and MARADMIN 596/18, coyote field glove liners (DSCP black liners meet the minimum requirement) were mandatory by October 1, 2019. Coyote watchcaps became mandatory by October 1, 2020, and black field gloves by October 1, 2021. DSCP field gloves and liners can be worn at the individual’s discretion in garrison or the field with the MCCUU (liners as outerwear, except in formation). The DSCP coyote watchcap is authorized with PT uniforms and the MCCUU in garrison and field environments when appropriate for the weather. Saluting is required with the watchcap in non-tactical garrison settings, similar to garrison MCCUU caps, but not with PT uniforms. These regulations ensure Marines are properly equipped for varying climates while remaining within “marine corps uniform regs”.
Female Hair Fades: Authorized Styles
Female Marines with short hair now have specific guidelines for fades. A “zero” fade is authorized at the nape hairline, up to a maximum length of one inch, graduating from zero within two inches of the nape hairline. Zero fades on the sides of the head are not permitted; the shortest side length is 1/4 inch, allowing for a quarter-inch fade. Female Marines with long hair are permitted to shave neck hair below the hairline that cannot be incorporated into a bun. These clarifications provide female Marines with more styling options within “marine corps uniform regs”.
Fourragere: Wear and Obsolete Attachments
The regulations regarding the French Fourragere have been updated. The black tip pencil attachment for the French Fourragere is now obsolete, having been so since 2001. Marines who were permanently awarded this attachment can continue to wear it. Permanent wear of the French Fourragere is exclusive to Marines personally awarded it for WWII actions. Marines currently serving with the 5th and 6th Marines wear the award with a polished brass tip pencil attachment while attached to those units. Paragraph 5302.4 of MCO 1020.34H will be updated to reflect these changes in “marine corps uniform regs”.
Hands in Pockets: Garrison Policy
MCO 1020.34H, effective immediately, addresses the hands-in-pockets policy. In a garrison environment, placing hands in pockets is restricted to retrieving items. However, in field environments, the application of this policy relies on good judgment. This rule is a straightforward aspect of “marine corps uniform regs” focused on maintaining a professional bearing.
Hose Color in the Blue Dress Uniform: Formal vs. Semi-Formal
Hose color for the Blue Dress Uniform depends on the formality of the occasion. Smoke/off-black hose are reserved for formal events. Otherwise, nude/flesh-tone harmonizing hose are the default. A helpful guideline is to consider the civilian dress code: if civilians are expected to wear formal attire (ball gowns, tuxedos), then smoke hose are appropriate. Semi-formal or less formal occasions call for nude hose. If no civilians are present, formal events are indicated by officers and SNCOs wearing evening dress uniforms. Despite the Blue Dress Uniform often being associated with formal events like the Birthday Ball, nude hose are actually the default under “marine corps uniform regs”.
HQMC Uniform of the Day: Pentagon Reservation
ALMAR 13/20 specifies the uniform of the day for Marines and Sailors at the Pentagon Reservation or visiting on official business. The service “B”/”C” uniform (season appropriate) is mandated. This is a specific regulation for personnel in the HQMC area, reinforcing “marine corps uniform regs”.
Male Hair Fades: Clearer Guidance
Male hair fade regulations have been clarified. The zero fade at the nape must extend up to the top of the ear orifice. This provides precise guidance for “low regulation” haircuts. Fades must start at zero and graduate to the maximum hair length, which cannot be reached before the top ear orifice. While starting at zero at the nape and continuing past the ear orifice is permissible, eventually, a fade to the top hair patch is required. Clean-shaven heads are also authorized. “Mohawks” remain unauthorized. These updates ensure consistent interpretation of “marine corps uniform regs” regarding male haircuts.
Manicures in Utilities: Natural Look
Uniform Board 209 revised the policy on manicures in MCCUUs, allowing female Marines to wear manicures that mimic the natural nail. This means clear polish or manicures resembling the natural nail are permitted. Natural nails typically have a beige tip extending beyond the nail bed. French/American manicures and similar styles with a white, off-white, or beige tip are approved. The portion of the nail over the nail bed must be pale pink, nude, or peach-like. Solid nude, peach, or pink nails without the light tip are not authorized in utilities but are acceptable with dress and service uniforms. This nuanced rule reflects the “marine corps uniform regs” balance between standards and personal expression.
Marine Corps Birthday Ball Uniform: Officers and SNCOs
ALMAR 042/11 standardizes the Marine Corps Birthday Ball uniform for officers and SNCOs as the dress blue uniform (with blue trousers/skirt/slacks) or the evening dress uniform. This policy does not apply to Sergeants and below, clarifying “marine corps uniform regs” for this specific event.
Marine Corps Boot Program: Minimum Requirements
The minimum boot requirement is one pair each of hot weather and temperate weather boots. Either Marine Corps Combat Boots (MCCBs) or Rugged All Terrain (RAT) boots meet this requirement. Optional certified boots must have the Marine Corps emblem on the heel and a certification approval tag, typically inside the boot. Boots lacking both are not authorized, even from approved manufacturers. Care should be taken when purchasing online to ensure both emblem and tag are present to comply with “marine corps uniform regs”.
Marine Corps Uniform Board 217 (MARADMIN 596/18): Key Updates
MARADMIN 596/18, stemming from Uniform Board 217, provides wear regulations and mandatory possession dates for the FDBC, as well as regulations for the “watchcap” and a list of authorized boot manufacturers. This MARADMIN is a key resource for understanding current “marine corps uniform regs”.
MARPAT MCCUU Sleeve Rolling Guidance: Summer and Winter
PMCUB memo 1020 (March 12, 2014) clarifies MCCUU sleeve rolling (para 3038.3 of the MCUR). In summer, sleeves are rolled inside out, snug to the arm, about three inches wide, with the roll’s bottom slightly above to halfway between the shoulder top and elbow top. Local commanders can authorize sleeves down in combat and field environments. In winter, sleeves are worn down. Trousers are bloused neatly with combat boots. Helmets with MARPAT covers can be prescribed for utility uniform parades, reviews, and ceremonies, as per MARADMIN 078/14. These guidelines are crucial for proper MCCUU wear under “marine corps uniform regs”.
Maternity Uniform Development: New Items
Maternity uniform options are expanding. Maternity and nursing t-shirts are certified optional items, being made available through MCCS, including online. Maternity khaki long and short-sleeve shirts and tunics are being updated with side tabs for improved fit during pregnancy. Blue dress maternity skirts and slacks are also under development, to be added to the maternity supplemental clothing allowance. These developments are aimed at better accommodating pregnant Marines within “marine corps uniform regs”.
Naval Personnel Wearing Marine Corps Uniforms: Grooming Standards
NAVADMIN 233/18 clarifies that Sailors assigned to Marine Corps units and wearing Marine uniforms must adhere to Marine Corps grooming standards, except male Sailors are not required to maintain zero fade hairstyles. This ensures consistency in appearance for Navy personnel integrated with Marine units, respecting “marine corps uniform regs” with a specific exception.
New Female Blue Dress Coat (FBDC): Availability and Regulations
The FDBC is available for purchase and authorized for wear now, with a mandatory possession date of October 1, 2022. The old women’s blue dress coat became obsolete on September 30, 2022, although Marines retiring before this date can continue wearing it in retirement, and former Marines exiting before this date may wear it at their discretion as per MCO 1020.34H Chapter 12. Key points about the FDBC include: it is gender-specific (unlike the male coat); enlisted females wear gender-specific chevrons; the white web belt, waistplate, and branch insignia are gender-neutral; female officers do not wear the male white dress shirt or white cuffs but wear the white strip collar; and the belt and buckle are included with both male and female dress coats. Understanding these nuances is vital for correctly wearing the FDBC according to “marine corps uniform regs”.
Ordering the 8th & I Blue Overcoat: Ceremonial Use
Neptune Garment Company is now accepting orders for the 8th & I blue overcoat, suitable for ceremonial purposes. Units needing this overcoat must fund the purchase themselves and can contact Neptune Garment Company at 1-800-320-3980 or [email protected]. This is a specific item within “marine corps uniform regs” for ceremonial units.
Ponytails in Marine Corps Uniforms: PT Exception
Ponytails are generally not authorized in Marine Corps uniforms, except for female Sailors and Marines during PT while wearing PT uniforms. This rule is a straightforward element of “marine corps uniform regs” regarding hairstyles in uniform.
Running Suit Wear Guidance: Authorized Combinations
Running suit wear guidance has been clarified by CMC. Only the running suit jacket and sweatshirt can be worn as outer garments for non-PT leave and liberty. The full running suit or its components can be worn with any PT ensemble component (running suit, general purpose trunks, green undershirt) only for PT leave and liberty. The olive green sweat suit should never be worn with running suit components. Reflective belt wear with the running suit is commander’s discretion for safety. Commercial/”rainbow” clothing is allowed with running suit, sweats, and green shorts/undershirt for personal PT only. Various combinations of uniform components are permitted (e.g., running suit trousers with green undershirt, sweatpants with green undershirt, green undershirt with black shorts), except sweats with the running suit. The running suit jacket is not authorized with the utility uniform. ALMAR 019/08 also prohibits non-PT leave and liberty wear of the green undershirt, general purpose trunks, and sweatpants. These detailed rules ensure proper wear of the running suit within “marine corps uniform regs”.
Uniform of the Day Policy for the National Capital Region: ALMAR 54/06
ALMAR 54/06 outlines the uniform of the day policy for the Washington Metro Area. This local regulation, not a Uniform Board policy, applies to all Marines in the area, including visitors, and is important to note when operating in the National Capital Region and adhering to “marine corps uniform regs”.
Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Officer/Operator Insignia: MOS Specific
DC Aviation Memo 1000 DCA (October 16, 2020) authorizes UAS officer and operator insignia for Marine officers with MOS 7318 and enlisted Marines with MOS 7316, respectively, as per paragraph 40002 of the Uniform Regulations. This is a specialized insignia within “marine corps uniform regs” for UAS personnel.
View All Uniform Plates: Limited Availability
Currently, only plate XIV (Combat Utility Uniform) is in print and orderable (PCN 100-103-622-00). Other uniform plates are out of print and circulation unless the Historical Division reprints them. This note is relevant for units seeking uniform plates for reference and training on “marine corps uniform regs”.
Waiver to FDBC Mandatory Possession Date: Exit Window
ALMAR 007/20 provides a waiver for the FDBC mandatory possession date for female Marines exiting service between October 1, 2022, and January 1, 2023. These Marines can continue wearing the “old” female blue dress uniform until their exit. For all other Marines, the mandatory possession date remained October 1, 2022. This temporary waiver addressed a specific transition period within “marine corps uniform regs”.
White Crew-Neck Undershirts: Optional for Females, Mandatory for Tattoos
MARADMIN 143/16 authorized female Marines to optionally wear white crew-neck, V-neck, or no undershirt under khaki service/dress shirts. However, crew-neck undershirts are mandatory for all Marines with visible tattoos in the “V” area created by the open collar of khaki service/dress shirts. This rule addresses both comfort and tattoo policy within “marine corps uniform regs”.
Civilian Clothing Replacement Allowance Rates: FY23 and History
The Civilian Clothing Replacement Allowance (CCA) rates are updated annually. For FY23, the rate is $391.32. Historical rates are also provided: FY22 – $382.68, FY21 – $375.84, FY20 – $368.28, FY19 – $360.72, FY18 – $354.24, FY17 – $347.04, FY16 – $340.80, FY15 – $335.40, FY14 – $329.76, FY13 – $323.52, FY12 – $318.00. CCA requests now require a screenshot from MCTFS (3270) D926 page. More information on the CCA program is available here. This section details administrative aspects related to “marine corps uniform regs” and allowances.
Uniform Board Process and Recommendation Submission: How Regulations Evolve
The Uniform Board process begins with recommendations, ideally command-endorsed for individual Marines. Issues are compiled for formal Board meetings and briefed to the President, Marine Corps Uniform Board (PMCUB). PMCUB-approved issues proceed to a Working Group of local Marines, subject matter experts, and issue advocates. The Working Group develops formal recommendations, often surveyed Corps-wide via Marines.mil. Survey results, along with Working Group findings, go to the formal Uniform Board (CMC-appointed members). The Board provides final votes and recommendations to CMC for decision. CMC’s staff reviews and comments before CMC decisions are published via ALMAR and disseminated through HQMC press/social media and the MCUB webpage. For recommendation submissions, contact the POC detailed on the MCUB page before significant effort is invested. Understanding this process clarifies how “marine corps uniform regs” are updated and modified.
Staying Informed on Marine Corps Uniform Regulations
Staying up-to-date with “marine corps uniform regs” is a continuous responsibility for all Marines. Regularly reviewing MARADMINs, Marine Corps Bulletins, and official publications ensures compliance and maintains the high standards of appearance expected of every Marine. This guide provides a snapshot of key current regulations, but Marines should always refer to official sources for the most accurate and comprehensive information.
