The regulations governing the uniforms of the United States Marine Corps are meticulously detailed to ensure uniformity, tradition, and professionalism. Staying abreast of these regulations is crucial for all Marines. This article provides a comprehensive overview of recent updates and clarifications to the USMC uniform regulations, drawing from official sources to keep you informed and correctly attired.
Hair Grooming Standards for Female Marines: Ponytails and Fades
Recent updates have provided greater clarity on hair grooming standards, particularly for female Marines. Addressing the practicalities of varying hair lengths and styles, the Marine Corps has refined its policies concerning ponytails and fades.
For female Marines with medium to long hair, during non-combat physical training (PT), unsecured full ponytails or braids are authorized. This adjustment recognizes the need for practicality during physical activity while maintaining professional standards. Outside of non-combat PT, long hair must be secured up, ensuring no loose portions or exposed ends, as per current regulations MCO 1020.34H. Inconspicuous hairpins and bobby pins are permitted, and barrettes and combs, consistent with hair color and concealed by hair, are also authorized. Ponytail holders should match the hair color and, while they need not be concealed, should remain inconspicuous. It’s important to note that conspicuous hair accessories like headbands, scrunchies, alligator clips, or bows are not authorized. These clarifications are slated to be officially incorporated into the updated MCO 1030.32H.
In terms of haircuts, female Marines with short hair are now authorized to have a “zero” fade at the hairline at the nape of the neck, extending to a maximum length of one inch. This fade must start from zero and graduate upwards, concluding within two inches of the hairline. Zero fades are not permitted on the sides of the head; the shortest permissible length on the sides remains a quarter inch, allowing for a quarter-inch fade. For female Marines with longer hair, shaving hair below the natural hairline at the back of the neck (hair that cannot be neatly incorporated into a bun) is also authorized.
Tattoo Policy Amplification and Blue Dress Uniform Wear
The Marine Corps has also provided further guidance on its tattoo policy. According to MCBul 1020, dated 29 Oct 2021 and extended until 29 Oct 2023, the prohibition on wearing the blue dress “A/B” and blue-white “A/B” uniforms with a skirt if visible leg tattoos are present has been rescinded. This update offers more flexibility in uniform wear for Marines with leg tattoos. It remains crucial for Marines considering new tattoos to thoroughly review MCBul 1020 to ensure compliance with all current regulations before getting inked. These guidelines will be officially integrated into Change 1 of the Marine Corps Uniform Regulations.
Belt Wear Guidance for the Female Dress Blue Coat
Clarifications have been issued regarding belt wear with the new Female Dress Blue Coat (FDBC). As per MARADMIN 596/18, paragraph 3002 of the Uniform Regulations has been updated. For all uniforms, belts are to be worn at the natural waistline. The right edge of the buckle (wearer’s right) should align with the edge of the fly or coat front for most uniforms. However, due to the FDBC closing in a manner opposite to the male coat, the belt is worn differently. For the new FDBC, the left edge of the buckle (wearer’s left) should align with the edge of the coat front, and the belt end should extend to the wearer’s left. This distinction ensures uniformity and proper wear of the belt with the FDBC.
Cold Weather Uniform Items: Field Gloves and Watchcaps
Updates on cold weather uniform items include guidance on black field gloves, liners, and watchcaps. As per CMC Decision Memo dated 10 Jan 18 and MARADMIN 596/18, coyote field glove liners (with DSCP black liners meeting minimum requirements) became mandatory possessions on 1 Oct 2019. Coyote watchcaps followed on 1 Oct 2020, and black field gloves on 1 Oct 2021. DSCP field gloves and liners can be worn at the individual’s discretion in garrison or field environments with the MCCUU (liners can be worn as outerwear except in formations). The DSCP-issued coyote watchcap is authorized with PT uniforms and the MCCUU in garrison and field settings when weather appropriate. Saluting protocols remain the same in non-tactical garrison environments while wearing the watchcap with the MCCUU. However, saluting is not required when wearing the cold weather watchcap with the physical training uniform.
Male Haircut Fades: Defining “Low Regulation”
Guidance has been provided to standardize male haircut fades, particularly for those opting for a “low regulation” haircut. The zero fade must commence at the nape of the neck and continue upwards to the top opening of the ear. This clarifies that the maximum hair length cannot be reached before the top orifice of the ear. While Marines can choose to extend the zero fade beyond the top of the ear, potentially into a high and tight style, mohawks remain unauthorized. Marines also have the option for a clean-shaven head. The key update is the standardization of the fade, requiring it to reach at least the top of the ear for low regulation haircuts, prohibiting very quick graduations to maximum hair length close to the hairline.
Manicures in Utility Uniforms for Female Marines
Policy adjustments have been made regarding manicures for female Marines in MCCUUs. Uniform Board 209 now permits manicures that mimic the natural nail look. This means clear nail polish or manicures that resemble the natural nail are authorized. Natural nails typically feature a beige-colored tip extending beyond the nail bed. Acceptable manicures include French/American tips or any style that replicates this natural appearance, featuring a white, off-white, or beige tip with the area over the nail bed in pale pink, nude, or peach-like colors. Solid nude, peach, or pink nails without the white/beige tip are not authorized for wear with utility uniforms but are permissible with dress and service uniforms.
Hands in Pockets Policy in Garrison
A reminder regarding the policy on hands in pockets: as per MCO 1020.34H, effective immediately, placing hands in pockets in a garrison environment is restricted to only retrieving items from pockets. While this policy is strictly enforced in garrison, good judgment should prevail in field environments.
Conclusion
Staying informed about USMC uniform regulations is a continuous responsibility for all Marines. These updates and clarifications reflect the Marine Corps’ commitment to maintaining high standards of dress and appearance while adapting policies to practical needs and modern contexts. Marines are encouraged to regularly consult official MARADMINs, MCBULs, and the Marine Corps Uniform Regulations to ensure they remain compliant and present the sharp, professional image expected of them. By staying informed and adhering to these regulations, Marines uphold the proud traditions and visual standards of the US Marine Corps.
