The U.S. Marine Corps has a rich history of tradition and uniformity, and a recent update to the dress blue uniform for female Marines marks a significant step in this legacy. In a move to ensure all Marines embody the same esteemed image, Marine Corps Systems Command (MCSC) spearheaded an initiative to design a dress blue coat for women that mirrors the distinguished appearance of the male uniform, while offering a more tailored and comfortable fit. This historic change, rooted in a 2014 directive, culminated in November 2018, when female Marines of November Company, 4th Recruit Training Battalion at Parris Island proudly debuted the new uniforms during their graduation ceremony.
This transition was not merely a cosmetic alteration; it was a carefully considered evolution. The goal was clear: to visually unify the Corps, ensuring instant recognition of every Marine, regardless of gender, in the iconic dress blue uniform. As Sgt. Maj. Robin Fortner of MCSC, the reviewing official at the graduation, remarked, “All the Marines looked sharp. The uniform represents the United States Marine Corps and its proud, rich legacy.” This sentiment underscores the importance of the dress uniform as a symbol of Marine identity and esprit de corps.
Female Marine Recruit in USMC Dress Blue Uniform
The development process was thorough and inclusive, prioritizing the voices of female Marines themselves. MCSC’s Infantry Combat Equipment (ICE) team conducted extensive research, deploying surveys and roadshows to engage directly with Marines across various duty stations. They visited I and II Marine Expeditionary Forces and connected with over 2,600 Marines in key locations like the National Capital Region, Parris Island, Camp Lejeune, Cherry Point, and Yuma, as well as the entire west coast. Recognizing the need for broad participation, an online survey option was also made available, attracting nearly 3,000 additional responses. This commitment to gathering feedback highlights the Marine Corps’ dedication to ensuring the new Usmc Dress Uniform met the needs and preferences of its female members.
Louis Curcio, the ICE clothing designer, emphasized the iterative nature of the design process. The fielded coat was the result of multiple prototypes and refinements. Key changes incorporated into the new design include a distinguished white belt and a standing collar, replacing the previous standard lapel. These modifications bring the female dress blue coat into closer alignment with the male version, enhancing the unified appearance of the Marine Corps.
Close-up of the standing collar and white belt on the USMC female dress blue uniform
Crucially, the design decisions were not made in isolation. Curcio explained, “Throughout the process, we conducted three different surveys to figure out if the new coat was something Marines actually wanted—and we only surveyed females.” The results of these surveys were directly presented to the Commandant of the Marine Corps, demonstrating the weight given to female Marines’ input in shaping this uniform update.
Beyond aesthetic changes, practical improvements were also integrated. Designers added a seam in the upper torso area to facilitate easier tailoring for diverse body types. The coat length was also increased by 1.5 inches to provide better structure and balance with the trousers, which themselves were redesigned to offer an enhanced range of motion and mobility. These adjustments reflect a commitment to both appearance and functionality in the new USMC dress uniform.
The roadshow team, including Lt. Col. Jeniffer Ballard and Sgt. Lucy Schroder, played a vital role in showcasing the uniform and gathering feedback firsthand. Traveling alongside Curcio, they modeled the prototypes and addressed questions from fellow Marines. Their direct interaction with Marines, coupled with Commandant Gen. Robert Neller’s personal engagement in seeking opinions, underscored the importance of direct feedback in this process.
Interestingly, the roadshows revealed varied initial reactions. Lt. Col. Ballard noted that some Marines expressed concern that the new coats might diminish their femininity or deviate from established traditions for female Marines. However, she also highlighted the evolving nature of Marine Corps uniforms throughout history, emphasizing that change is a constant. Many Marines, upon seeing the uniform in person, were “pleasantly surprised,” finding that it surpassed their expectations.
Sgt. Schroder emphasized the importance of experiencing the new uniform firsthand. She shared her own initial confusion upon receiving her boot camp dress coat, which differed from the iconic male uniform she had seen previously. She believes the new USMC dress uniform represents progress, giving female Marines a stronger voice in their presentation and potentially attracting future recruits.
Two female Marines modeling the new USMC dress blue uniform
The new USMC dress uniform became available for purchase at Marine Corps Exchanges in November 2018. By fiscal year 2022, all female Marines were required to transition to the updated uniform, signifying a complete integration of this historic change.
Sgt. Maj. Fortner’s concluding remarks encapsulate the spirit of adaptation and progress within the Marine Corps: “We cannot be afraid of change, often times a new era brings about changes. Many Marines have adapted throughout their careers, and this is no different. We must take it on and own it.” This new chapter in the history of the USMC dress uniform ensures that every Marine, stands united and recognizable in this time-honored attire.
Editor’s note: The original story can be viewed on the Marine Corps Systems Command website.
