How to Wear USA Military Uniforms & Accessories
The United States Military is known for the sharpness of its uniforms, regardless of which branch. Each has its own formal, semi-formal and utility uniforms that must meet specific standards for proper wear; failure to meet them could result in disciplinary action. To wear a uniform as a service member does, you have to make sure that the uniform fits well, is serviceable and presents all ribbons and medals correctly.
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Things You'll Need
- Branch-specific Uniform Regulations
- Six-inch ruler
- Black polish
- Iron
- Starch
- Sewing Kit
Instructions
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How to Wear USA Military Uniforms & Accessories
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Ensure your uniform fits well. Uniforms that are too big or too small can take away from a sharp appearance. Consider using a tailor to make sure sleeves and pant legs are the proper length according to regulations. Semi-formal jackets such as the Army's "Class A" jacket should also be of proper size and fit. For services like the Air Force, tattoos should not be visible in semi-formal or formal wear.
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Make sure your uniform is neat and serviceable. There should be no holes, tears or rips. Those should be repaired with a sewing kit containing matching strings; replace the item if repairs are obvious. Stripes and insignias should be symmetrically placed on sleeves and lapels. Use an iron where possible to remove all visible wrinkles. If allowed, use starch to add sharpness to visible collars and sleeves. Shine or polish black leather boots and shoes. Some boots, like the Air Force's Airmen Battle Uniform boots, cannot be shined because they are sage green or tan in color.
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Place all ribbons in order of precedence on the proper mounts; use the additional resource listed below to find the proper order. Also consider clusters and multiples that can apply to certain ribbons, such as multiple National Defense Service ribbons. Miniature medals should be worn on formal uniforms. Use each service's specific placement measurements to ensure more authenticity. You may need to use a 6-inch ruler for more accuracy. For example, Air Force occupational symbols must be one half inch over the Air Force name tape on Airman Battle Uniforms; or one half inch over the right breast pocket on men's service shirts.
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Put the uniform on and check yourself in the mirror for any last minute adjustments. Carry extra pins, ribbons, polish and sewing kit should an accident occur. Make sure that the haircut is also in regulation. Hair out of regulation can take away from the uniform's appearance as well.
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Tips & Warnings
Unauthorized wear of a military uniform for the purpose of deceit, such as impersonating an officer to gain authoritative advantage, is a federal crime. Unauthorized wear of medals is also punishable under federal law. If you intend to wear the uniform as a costume, make sure there are obvious telltale signs that it is a costume, such as a missing service name tape or an upside-down rank insignia.
