The Navy's Dress Blue uniform, often referred to as the "Service Dress Blue" or "SDBs," is an iconic and highly recognizable formal attire. It is characterized by its crisp, dark blue color, gold buttons, and distinctive rank insignia. To ensure you look your best and exude the elegance and professionalism associated with this uniform, there are several accessories that are essential to complete the look. These accessories not only enhance the overall aesthetic but also serve practical purposes, ensuring comfort and functionality during various military functions and events.
1. Cover/Hat
The cover, or hat, is a fundamental part of the Navy Dress Blues uniform. It is not just an accessory but a symbol of rank and tradition. The most common cover for this uniform is the combination cap, which features a stiff, round crown and a short bill. This cap is typically made of black wool felt and is adorned with a gold anchor emblem and a black chin strap. For female service members, the combination cap is also an option, but a white hat with a gold chinstrap and a black, gold, and white hatband is an equally elegant choice.
Selecting the Right Cover
When choosing a cover, it is essential to ensure it fits properly and securely. The cap should sit comfortably on the head, with the bill facing forward. For female service members, the white hat should have a slightly tilted angle, adding a touch of sophistication to the overall look.
| Cover Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Combination Cap | Black wool felt cap with a gold anchor emblem and a black chin strap. |
| White Hat | For female service members, a white hat with a gold chinstrap and a black, gold, and white hatband. |
2. Shoes
The right footwear is crucial to completing the Navy Dress Blues uniform. The standard footwear for this uniform is the black low-quarter shoe, also known as the “oxford” style. These shoes are characterized by their sleek, plain-toe design and are typically made of high-quality leather. The low-quarter style provides a comfortable and secure fit, making them ideal for long periods of wear.
Shoe Maintenance and Care
To ensure your shoes maintain their polished and professional appearance, regular maintenance is essential. This includes cleaning the shoes with a soft brush or cloth, applying a suitable leather conditioner to prevent drying and cracking, and polishing the shoes to a high shine using a quality shoe polish and a soft cloth or brush.
| Shoe Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Black Low-Quarter Shoes | Sleek, plain-toe oxford-style shoes made of high-quality leather. |
3. Belt
The belt is an often-overlooked accessory, but it plays a crucial role in the overall appearance of the Navy Dress Blues uniform. The standard belt for this uniform is a black leather belt with a gold buckle. The belt should be worn at the waist, ensuring a neat and secure fit. It not only adds a touch of elegance but also provides practical support for the uniform.
Belt Sizing and Fit
When selecting a belt, it is important to choose the correct size. The belt should fit comfortably around the waist, allowing for a secure buckle closure. It is recommended to measure your waist size accurately to ensure the belt fits properly and does not cause any discomfort or distraction during wear.
| Belt Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Black Leather Belt | A black leather belt with a gold buckle, worn at the waist. |
4. Gloves
Gloves are an optional but highly recommended accessory for the Navy Dress Blues uniform, particularly for formal occasions and ceremonies. They add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the overall look. The standard gloves for this uniform are white dress gloves, made of fine leather or synthetic materials. These gloves should fit snugly and comfortably, ensuring a seamless and polished appearance.
Gloves and Etiquette
When wearing gloves with the Navy Dress Blues uniform, it is important to follow proper etiquette. Gloves should be removed when greeting others, as a sign of respect and to allow for a more personal and friendly interaction. Additionally, gloves should be removed when eating, as it is considered improper to handle food while wearing gloves.
| Gloves Type | Description |
|---|---|
| White Dress Gloves | Fine leather or synthetic white gloves, worn for formal occasions. |
5. Socks
Socks are an essential part of the Navy Dress Blues uniform, providing comfort and support while ensuring a professional and uniformed appearance. The standard socks for this uniform are black dress socks, typically made of a blend of cotton and synthetic fibers. These socks should be of a suitable length to cover the leg up to the knee, ensuring a neat and polished look.
Socks and Comfort
When selecting socks, it is important to prioritize comfort and breathability. Opt for socks with a comfortable fit and a moisture-wicking fabric to keep your feet dry and comfortable throughout the day. Additionally, consider socks with a non-slip grip to prevent any discomfort or slippage while wearing the uniform.
| Socks Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Black Dress Socks | Black socks made of a cotton and synthetic blend, covering the leg up to the knee. |
6. Necktie
The necktie is a distinctive feature of the Navy Dress Blues uniform, adding a touch of color and elegance to the overall look. The standard necktie for this uniform is a black necktie with a gold stripe. This tie is typically made of high-quality silk or a silk blend, ensuring a luxurious and polished appearance. The tie should be worn with a neat and even knot, sitting comfortably at the collar.
Tying the Perfect Knot
Achieving the perfect necktie knot is an art. For the Navy Dress Blues uniform, a simple four-in-hand knot is recommended. This knot is elegant and versatile, ensuring a neat and professional appearance. It is important to ensure the tie is not too tight or too loose, and that the width of the knot is proportional to the width of the tie itself.
| Necktie Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Black with Gold Stripe | A black necktie with a gold stripe, made of silk or a silk blend. |
7. Handkerchief
While not a mandatory accessory, a handkerchief can add a touch of sophistication and practicality to the Navy Dress Blues uniform. A white handkerchief, folded neatly and placed in the breast pocket of the jacket, can be a subtle yet elegant addition. It serves both a functional purpose, as a tool for minor cleaning or personal use, and an aesthetic one, adding a touch of class to the overall look.
Handkerchief Etiquette
When using a handkerchief with the Navy Dress Blues uniform, it is important to follow proper etiquette. The handkerchief should be unfolded and used discreetly, ensuring it does not distract from the overall appearance of the uniform. It should be refolded neatly and returned to the breast pocket after use.
| Handkerchief Type | Description |
|---|---|
| White Handkerchief | A white handkerchief, folded neatly and placed in the breast pocket. |
8. Cufflinks
Cufflinks are an optional but stylish accessory for the Navy Dress Blues uniform, particularly for formal occasions. They add a touch of personality and elegance to the overall look. The standard cufflinks for this uniform are gold-colored, featuring a simple and elegant design. Cufflinks should be worn with the cuffs of the dress shirt, ensuring a neat and secure fit.
Cufflink Styles and Designs
When selecting cufflinks, consider your personal style and the occasion. For a more formal look, opt for classic and understated designs. For a touch of personality, you can choose cufflinks with unique designs or even personalized engravings. Ensure the cufflinks are of a suitable size, not too large or too small, to maintain a balanced and elegant appearance.
| Cufflink Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Gold-Colored Cufflinks | Elegant and simple gold-colored cufflinks, worn with the dress shirt cuffs. |
9. Shoulder Boards
Shoulder boards, also known as shoulder marks, are an important accessory for the Navy Dress Blues uniform, as they display your rank and position. These boards are typically made of a combination of gold and black braid, with a gold anchor emblem at the center. They are worn on the epaulets of the jacket, adding a touch of distinction and recognition to the overall look.
Shoulder Board Etiquette
When wearing shoulder boards, it is important to ensure they are properly positioned and securely attached. The boards should sit comfortably on the shoulders, with the anchor emblem centered and facing forward. It is also important to ensure the boards are clean and well-maintained, as they are a visible representation of your rank and professionalism.
| Shoulder Board Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Gold and Black Shoulder Boards | Braid shoulder boards with a gold anchor emblem, worn on the epaulets. |
10. Medal Ribbon Bar
The medal ribbon bar is an optional but highly prestigious accessory for the Navy Dress Blues uniform. It is a bar, typically worn above the left breast pocket, that displays your military awards and decorations. The ribbon bar showcases your achievements and recognition, adding a sense of honor and distinction to the overall look.
Ribbon Bar Etiquette
When wearing a medal ribbon bar, it is important to ensure it is properly positioned and securely attached. The bar should sit comfortably above the left breast pocket, with the ribbons facing forward. It is also essential to wear the ribbon bar in the correct order of precedence, with the most senior award appearing on the left. This ensures a professional and respectful display of your military honors.
| Ribbon Bar Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Medal Ribbon Bar | A bar displaying military awards and decorations, worn above the left breast pocket. |
What are the different types of Navy Dress Blues uniforms, and what accessories are specific to each type?
+The Navy Dress Blues uniform has two primary variations: the Service Dress Blue (SDBs) and the Full Dress Blue (FDBs). The SDBs is the most commonly worn variation and is characterized by its dark blue jacket, white shirt, and black trousers or skirt. The accessories for this uniform include the combination cap or white hat, black low-quarter shoes, black leather belt, and black dress socks. The FDBs is a more formal variation, typically worn for special occasions and ceremonies. It includes a dark blue jacket, white shirt, and black trousers or skirt, but with the addition of gold-colored buttons and braid trim. The accessories for the FDBs include the combination cap or white hat, black low-quarter shoes, black leather belt, white dress gloves, and a white handkerchief.
Are there any specific regulations or guidelines for wearing accessories with the Navy Dress Blues uniform?
+Yes, the Navy has specific regulations and guidelines for wearing accessories with the Dress Blues uniform. These regulations ensure uniformity and professionalism across all service members. For example, the combination cap or white hat must be worn with the brim facing forward and the chinstrap securely fastened. The black low-quarter shoes must be polished to a high shine, and the black leather belt must be worn at the waist with the buckle centered. Gloves should be worn with the palms facing forward, and the handkerchief should be folded neatly and placed in the breast pocket. It is important to familiarize yourself with these regulations to ensure you are in compliance and maintain a professional appearance.
Can I personalize my Navy Dress Blues uniform with unique accessories, or are there restrictions on customization?
+While the Navy Dress Blues uniform has a specific and uniform appearance, there is some room for personalization with accessories. You can choose cufflinks, tie clips, or even lapel pins to add a touch of your personal style. However, it is important to ensure that any personalized accessories do not distract from the overall uniformity and professionalism of the uniform. It is recommended to consult the Navy’s uniform regulations or seek guidance from a senior officer or uniform specialist to ensure your accessories are appropriate and in line with military standards.
