army class b uniform setup guide female
Army Class B Uniform Setup Guide: Female ― Overview
This guide details the proper wear of the Army Class B uniform for female Soldiers, ensuring adherence to AR 670-1 standards and professional appearance.
It covers authorized components, accessories, grooming, and maintenance, reflecting recent updates to Army uniform policy regarding female Soldiers.
Understanding these regulations is crucial for all personnel, promoting discipline and readiness within the force, as emphasized by the Army Review Boards Agency.
Understanding the Class B Uniform
The Army Class B uniform represents a standard of professional appearance for female Soldiers during daily operations and administrative tasks. It’s a transitional uniform, less formal than the Class A, yet maintaining a respectable and disciplined look.
This uniform is crucial for projecting a positive image of the Army and fostering unit cohesion. Recent policy updates, as released by the Army News Service, emphasize the importance of adhering to grooming and appearance standards alongside uniform regulations.
Proper understanding of the Class B uniform’s components – from the white service shirt to authorized footwear – is vital. The Army Review Boards Agency reinforces the need for consistent application of AR 670-1, ensuring all personnel are aware of and comply with the established guidelines.
It’s a reflection of dedication and professionalism.
Authorized Components
The female Class B uniform consists of specific, authorized items ensuring a standardized appearance. These include the Army green coat (female cut), the white service shirt, and either authorized trousers or a skirt, conforming to AR 670-1 guidelines.
Essential accessories are the name tag, rank insignia, and optional ribbon rack, positioned according to regulation. The Army Service Cap is also a required component, worn correctly with attention to hair regulations.
Approved footwear and hosiery complete the ensemble, with specific styles and colors mandated for professional presentation. CamoGPT highlights the importance of adhering to these details, reflecting the Army’s emphasis on discipline and readiness.
Any deviation requires authorization, maintaining uniform integrity.
Essential Garments
Core elements include the female-cut coat, white service shirt, and choice of trousers or skirt, forming the foundation of the Class B uniform’s professional look.
Coat – Female Cut
The Army’s female-cut coat is a crucial component of the Class B uniform, designed for a tailored and professional fit. It’s typically constructed from a durable, washable material, often a polyester-wool blend, ensuring longevity and ease of maintenance.
Proper fit is paramount; the coat should allow for comfortable movement without appearing overly loose or restrictive. Shoulder seams should lie flat, and the coat should button without strain.
The coat’s color adheres to Army regulations, generally a dark blue or Army green depending on the specific uniform variant authorized. It serves as the outer layer, providing a polished appearance suitable for various garrison environments and official functions. Attention to detail, like ensuring a wrinkle-free presentation, is essential for maintaining a professional image.
Shirt – White Service Shirt
The white service shirt is a foundational element of the female Army Class B uniform, demanding meticulous attention to detail. Constructed from a comfortable, breathable fabric – typically a polyester-cotton blend – it ensures a professional appearance and all-day wearability.
Proper fit is critical; the shirt should be neatly tucked into trousers or skirt, with sleeves extending to the wrist. It must be wrinkle-resistant and free of stains, reflecting a commitment to discipline and standards.
Buttoning protocols are strict, with all buttons fastened except the top, which may be unbuttoned during warmer conditions. This shirt serves as the base layer, complementing the coat and accessories to create a cohesive and professional uniform presentation.
Trouser/Skirt Options
Female Soldiers have the option of wearing either trousers or a skirt with the Army Class B uniform, providing flexibility while maintaining a professional standard. Trousers should be the Army Service Uniform (ASU) trousers, properly fitted and hemmed to the appropriate length – breaking slightly over the shoes.
If opting for a skirt, it must be the ASU skirt, reaching to the knee, and worn with nude or black hosiery, as per regulations. The skirt’s fit should be modest and allow for comfortable movement during duty tasks.
Both trousers and skirts must be wrinkle-free and in good repair, reflecting attention to detail and adherence to Army grooming standards. Choosing between these options allows for individual preference within established guidelines.
Accessories & Insignia
Proper placement of name tags, rank insignia, ribbon racks, and the Army service cap are essential for a complete and authorized Class B uniform appearance.
These elements demonstrate professionalism and adherence to Army regulations, contributing to a cohesive and disciplined unit presentation.
Name Tag & Rank Insignia Placement
The female name tag is centered on the left breast pocket of the white service shirt, positioned one inch below the shoulder seam. It must be securely affixed and easily legible, presenting a professional appearance.
Rank insignia placement varies based on officer or enlisted status. Enlisted personnel wear rank insignia on both lapels of the coat, centered and one-half inch from the shoulder seam.
Officers display rank insignia on the right lapel, while the left lapel remains clear unless wearing the name tag with the coat unbuttoned;
Accurate and consistent placement of these insignia is vital for maintaining Army standards and demonstrating respect for the uniform regulations, as outlined in AR 670-1.
Ensure insignia are clean and properly attached to avoid a disheveled look.
Ribbon Rack & Awards
Ribbon racks are worn centered on the left breast, above the name tag, and follow a specific order of precedence as detailed in Army regulations. Medals and awards are displayed according to their level of significance.
Full-size medals are authorized for wear on formal occasions, while ribbons represent awards on the Class B uniform. Proper spacing and alignment are crucial for a neat and professional presentation.
Ensure ribbons are correctly mounted and free from wrinkles or damage. Any temporary awards or decorations must be removed once the qualifying event has passed.
Adherence to these guidelines demonstrates respect for the honors received and maintains the dignity of the uniform, reflecting the Army’s commitment to recognizing achievement.
Refer to AR 670-1 for detailed guidance on ribbon and award placement.
Army Service Cap
The Army Service Cap is a crucial component of the Class B uniform, projecting a professional and sharp appearance. Female Soldiers wear the cap centered on the head, ensuring the crease is aligned with the center.
Proper fit is essential; the cap should not be too tight or loose. The brim is positioned approximately one inch above the eyebrows, maintaining a neat and balanced look.
Rank insignia is affixed to the front of the cap, indicating the Soldier’s grade. Ensure the insignia is securely attached and properly oriented.
When wearing the cap indoors, it is customary to hold it respectfully. Maintaining the cap’s shape and cleanliness is vital for a polished presentation.
Refer to AR 670-1 for specific details regarding cap wear and insignia placement.
Footwear & Hosiery
Approved footwear must be polished and in good repair, complementing the uniform’s professional appearance. Hosiery requirements ensure a neat and standardized look for female Soldiers.
Approved Shoe Styles
Female Soldiers wearing the Class B uniform have specific footwear options authorized for wear, maintaining a professional and consistent appearance. Generally, black leather low-quarter shoes are standard, ensuring compatibility with the uniform’s overall aesthetic.
Loafers, oxfords, and pumps with a conservative heel height (typically not exceeding 2.5 inches) are commonly accepted styles. Shoes must be polished to a high gloss and free from any excessive wear or damage. Athletic shoes, sandals, and open-toed shoes are explicitly prohibited with the Class B uniform.
The selection of footwear should prioritize comfort and functionality while adhering to the established standards. Regular inspection and maintenance are essential to ensure shoes remain in acceptable condition, reflecting pride and discipline within the ranks.
Hosiery Requirements
Proper hosiery is a crucial component of the female Army Class B uniform, contributing to a polished and professional appearance. Regulations generally mandate the wear of neutral-colored or black nylons or stockings when wearing skirts or dresses with the uniform.
Hosiery must be free of runs, tears, or any visible imperfections, maintaining a neat and presentable look. Pantyhose are also authorized, offering an alternative to stockings. Bare legs are not permitted when wearing skirts or dresses as part of the uniform.
The choice of hosiery denier should be appropriate for the weather and occasion, ensuring both comfort and adherence to standards. Regular inspection and replacement of worn hosiery are essential for maintaining a professional image.
Grooming Standards (Relevant to Uniform Wear)
Army regulations emphasize neatness, cleanliness, and professionalism in grooming, impacting uniform appearance. Hair, cosmetics, and jewelry must adhere to AR 670-1 guidelines for female Soldiers.
Hair Regulations
Hair must be neatly styled and maintain a professional appearance, reflecting discipline and Army standards. Authorized hairstyles include braids, cornrows, and twists, but must not interfere with wearing the Army service cap or other uniform components.
Extremes in hair color are discouraged, and natural hair colors are preferred. If hair is dyed, it must be a natural-looking shade, avoiding bright or unnatural hues. Ponytails and buns are permitted, but must be neat and secured properly.
Hair accessories must be conservative and blend with the hair color, avoiding distracting or overly ornate items. Bangs should not obstruct vision or interfere with the proper wear of headgear. These regulations ensure a consistent and professional look for all female Soldiers in uniform.
Cosmetics & Jewelry
Cosmetics should be applied conservatively, maintaining a professional and understated appearance. Excessive or flamboyant makeup is prohibited, as it detracts from the uniform’s overall neatness. Lipstick, eyeshadow, and blush should be subtle and natural-looking, enhancing rather than dominating features.
Jewelry is restricted to modest items, promoting a professional image. Wedding rings are permitted, as are small, discreet earrings. Necklaces must be worn under the uniform shirt, remaining concealed from view.
Visible body piercings, beyond one pair of earrings, are generally not authorized while in uniform. These guidelines ensure that accessories do not compromise the uniform’s integrity or detract from the Soldier’s professional bearing.
Uniform Maintenance & Care
Proper cleaning and storage are vital for uniform longevity and appearance, following washing and ironing instructions detailed in AR 670-1 for female Soldiers.
Consistent care ensures a professional presentation, upholding Army standards and reflecting pride in service, as emphasized by Army regulations.
Washing & Ironing Instructions
The Army Service Uniform (ASU), including the Class B variant for female Soldiers, requires specific washing procedures to maintain its appearance and integrity. Machine washing is permitted, utilizing cold water and a mild detergent; however, avoid harsh chemicals or bleach, which can damage the fabric and fade colors.
Tumble drying on a low heat setting is recommended, but line drying is preferred to minimize shrinkage and wrinkles. Ironing is essential for a sharp, professional look. Use a medium heat setting and iron while the uniform is slightly damp. Pay close attention to creases and seams, ensuring a crisp, clean finish. Avoid ironing directly onto embellishments or insignia, using a pressing cloth if necessary. Following these guidelines will extend the life of your uniform and ensure you always present a polished appearance, adhering to Army standards.
Proper Storage
Maintaining the longevity and appearance of your Army Class B uniform requires diligent storage practices. After washing and ironing, garments should be hung on appropriate hangers – shaped hangers for coats and skirts, and clip hangers for trousers – to prevent wrinkles and maintain their form.
Store uniforms in a clean, dry, and well-ventilated closet, protected from direct sunlight and dust. Utilize garment bags to shield against moths and other pests. Avoid overcrowding the closet, allowing sufficient space for air circulation. For long-term storage, consider using cedar blocks or lavender sachets as natural repellents. Proper storage ensures your uniform remains ready for inspection and reflects a commitment to professional standards.
Specific Considerations for Female Soldiers
Female Soldiers require attention to service cap wear with hairstyles and potential adjustments during pregnancy, aligning with AR 670-1 and Army policy.
These considerations ensure uniform standards are met while accommodating unique physiological changes and maintaining a professional appearance.
Wearing of the Service Cap with Hair
Proper service cap wear is vital for female Soldiers, requiring careful consideration of hairstyle regulations outlined in AR 670-1. The cap must be worn squarely on the head, with the front edge positioned one inch above the eyebrows.
Hair must not protrude from under the cap, or be visible in a manner that detracts from the uniform’s professional appearance. Approved hairstyles must allow for proper cap fit;
Long hair can be worn in a low bun or braid, secured to the nape of the neck, ensuring it remains concealed when the cap is worn.
Ponytails and braids that extend beyond the cap’s brim are prohibited.
The cap’s positioning should accommodate various hair lengths and textures, while upholding Army standards of neatness and discipline.
Adjustments may be needed to ensure a secure and professional fit.
Adjustments for Pregnancy
Pregnant Soldiers are authorized reasonable uniform adjustments, ensuring comfort and professional appearance throughout their pregnancy, as per Army policy. Modifications should maintain the uniform’s overall military bearing.
The maternity uniform components, including the maternity service coat and trousers/skirt, are designed to accommodate a growing abdomen. These can be worn with the Class B uniform.
Adjustments to the waist of trousers or skirts are permitted, performed by qualified personnel to ensure a neat and professional fit.
The wearing of the service cap may require adjustments to comfortably accommodate changes in head size.
Soldiers should consult with their chain of command and unit uniform representatives for guidance on appropriate modifications.
Policy authorizes breastfeeding or pumping in uniform, supporting Soldier readiness and well-being.
Resources & Regulations
AR 670-1 provides comprehensive uniform policy guidance, while the Army Review Boards Agency offers personnel action review resources. HRC provides MOS guidance.
AR 670-1: Uniform Policy
Army Regulation 670-1 is the foundational document governing military appearance and uniform wear, detailing specific requirements for the Class B uniform. It outlines authorized components, including acceptable shirt styles, trouser/skirt options, and appropriate footwear for female Soldiers.
The regulation addresses grooming standards, covering hair regulations, cosmetics, and jewelry limitations, ensuring a professional and disciplined appearance. AR 670-1 also specifies proper insignia placement, including name tags, rank insignia, and ribbon racks.
Recent updates to the regulation clarify policies regarding breastfeeding and pumping in uniform, authorizing accommodations for female Soldiers. Staying current with AR 670-1 is essential for all personnel to maintain compliance and uphold Army standards.
Army Review Boards Agency Information
The Army Review Boards Agency (ARBA) serves as the highest administrative level for reviewing personnel actions, impacting uniform policy interpretations and enforcement. ARBA’s role ensures consistent application of regulations like AR 670-1 across the Army, addressing potential discrepancies or appeals related to uniform wear.
Specifically, ARBA reviews cases involving uniform violations or requests for exceptions, particularly those concerning female Soldiers and evolving standards. Understanding ARBA’s function is crucial for navigating complex uniform regulations and appealing decisions when necessary.
ARBA’s oversight contributes to maintaining discipline and readiness within the force, upholding the Army’s professional image. Information regarding ARBA’s processes and contact details can be found on their official website, aiding Soldiers in understanding their rights and responsibilities.