United States Marine Corps Dress Blues: A Timeless Tradition

History of the Dress Blues

The United States Marine Corps Dress Blues have a rich and storied history, dating back to the Corps' inception in 1775. The first Dress Blues were simple and functional, consisting of a blue coat and trousers, a white shirt, and a black stock. Over the years, the Dress Blues have evolved in design and detail, but the core elements have remained unchanged.

Significance of the Dress Blues

The Dress Blues are not only a formal uniform, but also a symbol of the Marine Corps' history, traditions, and esprit de corps. They are worn with pride and distinction by Marines serving around the world. The Dress Blues represent the professionalism and discipline of the Marine Corps, and their appearance is governed by strict regulations.

Components of the Dress Blues

The Dress Blues consist of the following components:

• Jacket: The jacket is made of midnight blue wool and features a stand-up collar, double-breasted front, and metal buttons.
• Trousers: The trousers are also made of midnight blue wool and feature a straight leg and a brass zipper fly.
• Shirt: The shirt is made of white cotton poplin and features a spread collar, buttoned front, and adjustable cuffs.
• Stock: The stock is a black cloth cravat that is worn around the neck.
• Tie: The tie is a black bow tie that is worn over the stock.
• Belt: The belt is a black leather belt with a brass buckle.
• Footwear: The footwear is black leather dress shoes or boots.

Regulations for Wearing Dress Blues

The Dress Blues are worn for a variety of official and formal occasions, including:

• Parades and ceremonies
• Inspections and reviews
• Formal dinners and receptions
• Marine Corps balls
• Other designated events

Marines must adhere to strict regulations regarding the proper wear and appearance of the Dress Blues. These regulations include:

• Fit: The Dress Blues should fit snugly and comfortably.
• Cleanliness: The Dress Blues must be kept clean and pressed.
• Accessories: The only authorized accessories are the sword, medals, and ribbons.
• Demeanor: Marines wearing Dress Blues should maintain a professional and respectful demeanor.

Evolution of the Dress Blues

Over the years, the Dress Blues have undergone several changes in design and detail. Notable changes include:

• 1859: The introduction of the "Cravenette" jacket, which was made of a water-resistant fabric.
• 1901: The addition of the white piping to the collar and cuffs.
• 1915: The replacement of the brass buttons with leather buttons.
• 1942: The addition of the "blood stripe" to the trousers.
• 1954: The return to brass buttons.
• 1972: The addition of the "shoulder knot" to the jacket.
• 2004: The introduction of the "permanent press" fabric, which reduces wrinkles.

The Dress Blues Today

The Dress Blues remain an iconic symbol of the United States Marine Corps. They are worn with pride and distinction by Marines serving around the world. The Dress Blues represent the professionalism, discipline, and esprit de corps of the Marine Corps.

Tables

| Table 1: Historical Changes to the Dress Blues |
|---|---|
| Year | Change |
| 1859 | Introduction of the "Cravenette" jacket |
| 1901 | Addition of the white piping to the collar and cuffs |
| 1915 | Replacement of the brass buttons with leather buttons |
| 1942 | Addition of the "blood stripe" to the trousers |
| 1954 | Return to brass buttons |
| 1972 | Addition of the "shoulder knot" to the jacket |
| 2004 | Introduction of the "permanent press" fabric, which reduces wrinkles |

| Table 2: Regulations for Wearing Dress Blues |
|---|---|
| Occasion | Uniform |
| Parades and ceremonies | Dress Blues |
| Inspections and reviews | Dress Blues |
| Formal dinners and receptions | Dress Blues |
| Marine Corps balls | Dress Blues |
| Other designated events | Dress Blues may be authorized |

| Table 3: Components of the Dress Blues |
|---|---|
| Jacket | Midnight blue wool, stand-up collar, double-breasted front, metal buttons |
| Trousers | Midnight blue wool, straight leg, brass zipper fly |
| Shirt | White cotton poplin, spread collar, buttoned front, adjustable cuffs |
| Stock | Black cloth cravat |
| Tie | Black bow tie |
| Belt | Black leather belt with a brass buckle |
| Footwear | Black leather dress shoes or boots |

| Table 4: Evolution of the Dress Blues |
|---|---|
| Period | Design Changes |
| 1775-1859 | Simple and functional |
| 1859-1901 | Introduction of the "Cravenette" jacket |
| 1901-1915 | Addition of the white piping to the collar and cuffs |
| 1915-1942 | Replacement of the brass buttons with leather buttons |
| 1942-1954 | Addition of the "blood stripe" to the trousers |
| 1954-1972 | Return to brass buttons |
| 1972-2004 | Addition of the "shoulder knot" to the jacket |
| 2004-Present | Introduction of the "permanent press" fabric, which reduces wrinkles |