From the pristine white of a Navy Officer’s dress uniform to the business-like navy blue of everyday wear, military uniforms are iconic. But when do Navy Officers specifically wear white?
For those who have never served or seen a naval officer in full dress, it’s hard to know when a white uniform is worn.
This article will explore the various white uniforms and why Navy Officers wear them.
So if you ever wonder “When do Navy Officers wear white?”, read on for all the details.
Overview of Navy Officer White Uniforms
There is such a wide range of uniforms among Navy Officers, which are worn depending on the situation and the occasion. Of course, two most common would be the Navy working uniform, normally navy blue in color, and the full dress uniform, which is white.
The Navy work uniform is a navy-blue coat and trousers, with a white shirt, black tie, and black shoes. This is an everyday uniform for officers when on duty.
Full dress uniform consisting of gold buttons on both a white coat and trousers, with a white shirt showing rank stripes and white gloves; ribbons indicating awards and decorations; black shoes. Worn formally in military balls or Navy weddings.
In addition to these two main uniforms, there are a couple of others for special circumstances, such as service whites in hot weather and evening dress whites in warm climates for formal events.
Regardless of the event, the proper uniform must be prepared by Navy Officers. Whatever the event, there is always the right uniform to wear, from everyday wear to special events.
When Do Navy Officers Wear White?
Navy Officers must adhere to an array of regulations dictating when and where their white uniforms must be worn. White uniforms are reserved for formal occasions, such as balls, parades, or official receptions, where a full dress uniform is required.
In certain situations, however, a Service White or Evening Dress White may be necessary. For instance, if the climate is warm or humidity is high, then the Service White can be worn instead of the standard white uniform.
Similarly, the more formal Evening Dress Whites are often used for special events that take place in warmer climates. Regardless of the occasion or type of white uniform selected, Navy Officers should always maintain a professional appearance and show respect for the traditions of the United States Navy.
No matter what the occasion, Naval Officers must always strive to maintain their professionalism and uphold the values of the United States Navy when wearing white uniforms.
Next, we’ll explore what exactly Service Dress White (SDW) is and how it should be worn on certain occasions.
Note: All uniform images displayed in this article are credited to the Navy Personnel Command.
Summer White
Navy Officers may wear this uniform in summer for office work, watch standing, Liberty, or business ashore when required.
Service Dress White
Summer wear should comprise formal, dinner or full dress, not uniforms. The civilian equivalent is coat and tie.
Dinner Dress White Jacket
Officers O5 through O10 have a prescribed Summer Uniform for official functions that is like Black Tie, and optional for E1 through O4.
Full Dress White
This can be worn on the following occasions:
- Taking command, resigning command, or taking part in the ceremony.
- Official visits with the honors according to Navy regulations.
- Visits of Ceremony to Foreign Naval Vessels and Foreign Officials.
- State Events, Ceremonies, and Formalities.
