Navy Whites Uniform Regulations for Women

Sailors in Dress White Uniforms

Navy Dress Whites or "Service Dress Whites" are a standard uniform of the U.S. Navy. These uniforms are suitable for semi-formal working environments and are worn during the summer months or in tropical environments. All Navy uniform regulations can be found on the U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations page of the Navy Personnel Command website.

Junior Enlisted

Navy junior enlisted personnel wear the "cracker jack" uniforms. These are prescribed for sailors in the ranks of E-6 and below. Basic uniform components for women include a white button-down, short-sleeved shirt. The navy issues female sailors both slacks and skirts with this uniform. However, the skirt is considered an optional item in lieu of slacks. The uniform also comes with a white belt with silver clip and buckle and a white combination cap.

Chiefs and Officers

Sailors in the chief petty officer pay grades (E-7--E-9) wear the same uniforms as officers with some changes in appearance. The CPO pay grades have their rank insignia on their sleeves whereas officers wear their rank on shoulder tabs. The female chief petty officer white uniform comes with the same basic attire as the enlisted uniform with a few extra items. These items include a black woman's necktie and a dress coat.

Hair styles

Although female sailors are not require to cut their hair as short as male sailors, they are required to keep their hair within navy regulations while in uniform. However, female sailors are not permitted to have "shaved portions of the scalp (other than the neckline)" according to navy regulations.

Cosmetics and Jewelry

Sailors are always required to present a conservative and professional appearance. For females, this means makeup should be applied conservatively. While in uniform, female sailors may only wear one ring per hand. Women are authorized to wear a wedding/engagement ring set. Thumb rings are not authorized.

Conclusion

The navy uniforms for female sailors are very similar to those of male sailors with a few exceptions. Female uniforms have optional skirts and a feminine necktie. Female sailors may wear makeup or jewelry with their uniforms. However, like their male counterparts, female sailors are always expected to present a conservative, professional appearance

References

• Navy Personnel Command U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations