Military Uniforms

**JSFMACLJR** · 27th July 09, 11:45 AM

In the recent thread regarding campaign medals, a link was provided to a military outfitter, Marlow White ( http://www.marlowwhite.com/ ). While reading about officers mess dress, I note the uniforms are made out of a wool/polyester blend. Yuck! Are officers of the US Armed Forces allowed to have their uniforms made by a tailor out of better cloth if they choose?

**davedove** · 27th July 09, 11:58 AM

Generally speaking, each of the uniforms has a standard material from which they are made, plus a number of other alternatives authorized. If it's not one of the alternatives listed, it isn't authorized.

**george7** · 27th July 09, 12:11 PM

Originally Posted by JSFMACLJR

In the recent thread regarding campaign medals, a link was provided to a military outfitter, Marlow White ( http://www.marlowwhite.com/ ). While reading about officers mess dress, I note the uniforms are made out of a wool/polyester blend. Yuck! Are officers of the US Armed Forces allowed to have their uniforms made by a tailor out of better cloth if they choose?

No, the cloth is standardized. If it weren't there would be variations in shades and textures. It wouldn't look much like a uniform.

You can, however, alter it to fit better, so long as you don't alter the uniform's intended appearance. (i.e., you can hem the pants and sleeves)

**MacMillan of Rathdown** · 27th July 09, 12:50 PM

When I was in the Army all of my uniforms were tailored-- including some of the BDUs that I wore on parade. As long as the trousers matched the blouse (AG44) no one ever said anything. My dress blues, mess dress blues (and white mess dress jacket) were all wool and tailored. I had two dress blue blouses-- one a winter weight, and the other a very light weight and suitable for tropical wear. I think my summer whites were also wool, although I honestly can't remember.

I suspect that there might be greater lea-way in officer's uniforms (for example the option of bullion vs. mylar trim) given that we have to buy our uniforms.

**###KILTEDKIWI###** · 27th July 09, 02:06 PM

When I was in the Army all of my uniforms were tailored

- lucky you... ;)

Navy surge dress (No 1's - winter) was some of the itchiest material made by man...would of loved to get it made in some other material.

given that we have to buy our uniforms.

Really, in the UK forces..?

Never had to worry about that, given the clothing allowance, and or supplementary "Make a Mend" allowance for uniform ruined / soiled in the process of duty. (One for One)