Dress
USMC Dress Blues for Sale: Buying Guide & Uniform Tips
Looking to own a piece of American military tradition? Our comprehensive shopping guide for USMC dress blues for sale helps you find authentic, high-quality uniforms trusted by Marines for generations. Whether for ceremonial use, collection, or honoring a proud legacy, discover where to buy and what to look for to ensure you invest in the finest Marine Corps dress blues available.
USMC Dress Blues for Sale: Types and Variations Comparison
Before you choose your USMC Dress Blues, it helps to understand the different types, variations, and applications of this historic uniform. Below is a convenient table to help you compare the main categories.
| Uniform Type | Who Wears It | Key Components | Formality Level | Typical Uses | Purchase Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Enlisted Dress Blue “A” | Male Enlisted Marines | Blue coat, sky-blue trousers, medals, ribbons, chevrons, collar devices, white gloves, belt | Most formal | Ceremonies, parades, official events | New, Surplus, Pre-owned |
| Enlisted Dress Blue “B” | Male Enlisted Marines | Blue coat, sky-blue trousers, ribbons, badges (no medals), chevrons, collar devices | Formal | Regular service functions or semiformal events | New, Surplus, Pre-owned |
| Enlisted Blue-White Dress | Staff SNCO, Officers | Blue coat, white trousers, medals or ribbons, chevrons (SNCO), collar devices, gloves | Very formal (summer) | Warm-weather ceremonies, parades | New |
| Officer Dress Blue | Male Officers | Blue coat (officer cut), scarlet-piped collar with quatrefoil, sky-blue or white trousers, officer-specific insignia, Sam Browne belt, medals or ribbons | Highest | Ceremonies with dignitaries, high-visibility events | New |
| Surplus/Used Dress Blues | All above (varies) | May vary; often coat or full set, potentially missing accessories or requiring tailoring | Varies | Costume, reenactment, collector use, personal display | Surplus, Pre-owned |
| Marine Corps League/Retired | Veterans, Honor Guards | Adjusted to association specs, may include league insignia or patches | Formal (modified) | League meetings, funerals, veterans events | New, Surplus |
Choosing by Body Type: Finding the Perfect Fit
Selecting USMC Dress Blues that flatter your body type is crucial for achieving a sharp, proud appearance. Here’s how to choose wisely:
1. Know Your Measurements
- Coat: Chest, sleeve length, and torso length are key.
- Trousers: Waist and inseam.
- Shirts: Neck and sleeve length.
Tailoring is highly recommended—USMC Dress Blues are designed with a tailored silhouette. Even surplus jackets benefit from adjustment for a professional, crisp look.
2. Body Type Recommendations
- Athletic Build: Most off-the-rack coats suit athletic frames. If you have broad shoulders or narrow waist, consider tailored waist suppression for a trim look.
- Larger or Fuller Build: Seek full-cut or relaxed-fit options. Choose longer coats to elongate your frame. Look for trousers with extra room in seat/thigh.
- Tall/Short Stature: Pay special attention to coat and pant length, not just size. Shorter individuals may require coat bodies and pant legs hemmed; taller Marines may need “Long” or “Extra Long” options.
- Slim Build: Choose regular-fit jackets tailored in at the waist and sides. Consider structured shoulder pads, as these enhance presence.
3. Tips for the Best Fit
- Try on in full uniform posture, standing straight.
- When buying used or surplus, allow extra room for alterations (especially in the coat shoulders/chest).
- Consult professional military tailors for regulation-accurate alterations.
Choosing by Occasion: When to Wear Each Style
USMC Dress Blues are not a one-size-fits-all uniform—different events call for different variants.
A. Formal Occasions
- Dress Blue “A” (with medals): Appropriate for military balls, change-of-command ceremonies, weddings, parades, and high-level events.
- Officer Dress Blues: For officers at the highest ceremonial functions.
B. Semiformal and Daily Ceremonial Events
- Dress Blue “B” (with ribbons only): Used for promotions, official photos, funerals, and most regular ceremonies. It’s the “go-to” standard for visible Marine pride.
- Marine Corps League or Retired Uniforms: For league meetings, veteran affairs, association functions.
C. Seasonal & Geographical Considerations
- Blue-White Dress (white trousers): Worn outdoors in warm weather or in tropical climates—often at summer parades or events.
- Standard Blues (blue trousers): Year-round, with emphasis on cooler months or indoor events.
D. Reenactment, Collecting, or Display
- Surplus Dress Blues: Often used for theater, tribute displays, or personal collections.
Style Tips for USMC Dress Blues
Wearing such a distinguished uniform requires attention to detail. Follow these style tips to ensure you radiate pride and professionalism.
A. Get the Details Right
- Ironed Perfection: All pieces—jacket, trousers, shirt—should be pressed and free of wrinkles.
- Button Polish: Metal buttons and buckles should be free of tarnish and highly polished.
- Footwear: Black, highly shined oxfords are the only authorized choice.
B. Personalization Within Regulation
- Tailoring: Get your dress blues custom-fitted—adjust coat waist, sleeves, and pant hems.
- Shirt Garters: Use these to keep your shirt tucked and smooth.
- Cufflinks: Use regulation EGA (Eagle, Globe, Anchor) cufflinks for formal events.
C. Accessories That Count
- Medals vs. Ribbons: Always match to formality level. Only wear what you are authorized for.
- Proper Belts: Make sure you use the correct belt (Ceremonial white for formal, khaki for standard).
- White Gloves: Mandatory for ceremonial duties—ensure they are clean and correctly sized.
- Cover (Hat): Must be clean, fit properly, and include correct officer or enlisted ornamentation.
D. Avoid Common Mistakes
- Don’t mix civilian and military footwear.
- Avoid visible stains, tears, missing chevrons, or missing insignia.
- Never wear unauthorized patches or insignia.
Accessorizing USMC Dress Blues
The right accessories are essential for completeness, compliance, and visual impact.
Must-Have Accessories
- Insignia: Use correct collar devices for your rank. Enlisted wear EGA collar devices; officers use quatrefoil and gold/silver insignia.
- Chevrons: Sew-on or pin-on chevrons as appropriate to your rank.
- Service Stripes: Indicate years of service. Ensure correct placement.
- Ribbons/Medals: Order in regulation sequence, build or mount with authorized racks.
- Badges: Include marksmanship, identification, or specialty badges per achievement.
- Belt & Buckle: Use regulation khaki web belt or ceremonial white belt (NCOs: use proper EGA belt buckle).
- Name Tag: Worn only in certain situations—verify requirements.
- Shirt Garters & Gloves: Keep shirts smooth, add ceremonial touch.
- Socks: Over-the-calf black dress socks for no visible skin.
Optional Accessories
- Cuff Links: For French cuff shirts; must be USMC-regulation EGA style.
- Garment Bag: Useful for storage and transport to keep the uniform in top condition.
Practical Tips and Best Practices
- Plan Early: Certain sizes or components (especially coats) regularly go on backorder—order well in advance if you have a deadline.
- Check for Complete Sets: Surplus and pre-owned coats may not include belts, chevrons, or insignia; budget for replacement/additional purchases.
- Verify Authenticity: Only buy from reputable sellers who specify “Genuine USMC Issue” or “Officially certified.”
- Mind the Returns Policy: Many sellers of used/surplus uniforms offer store credit only or do not accept returns after attempted tailoring—double-check before purchase.
- Match the Shade: If building a set from separate components, confirm color match as dye lots may vary slightly (especially among new and surplus pieces).
- Maintain Your Uniform: Store dry-cleaned in a garment bag, away from sunlight to prevent fading. Regularly check for loose buttons or signs of wear.
- Understand Sizing: Each manufacturer may size slightly differently (especially with surplus stock); use provided size charts and, if possible, try on or measure existing uniforms for comparison.
- Alteration Services: Whenever possible, opt for professional military tailoring. They are familiar with very specific regulation requirements regarding fit and appearance.
- Budget for Accessories: Plan for the cost of insignia, belts, shoes, gloves, and any necessary medals or ribbons when pricing your uniform set.
- Regulation Compliance: Always consult the latest USMC uniform regulations to ensure proper composition and display for your rank and occasion.
USMC Dress Blues: Key Features and Specifications Comparison
Below is a technical comparison of selected USMC Dress Blues jackets and options to help illustrate differences between new, surplus, and officer/enlisted variants.
| Feature / Model | Enlisted New (Builder) | Enlisted Surplus/Used | Officer Dress Blue (New) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coat Material | Poly/wool gabardine | Poly/wool gabardine | Poly/wool gabardine (premium) | Same base specs, officer cut may differ |
| Coloring | Midnight navy blue/satin | May have fading/discolor | Midnight navy blue, scarlet | Surplus can show wear/color variance |
| Buttons | Gold anodized EGA | May have standard or swapped | Gold anodized (officer EGA) | Surplus may have replaced buttons |
| Collar | Scarlet piped mandarin | May have worn/faded piping | Scarlet piped, officer quatrefoil | Officer version, intricate embroidery |
| Fitting | Full, long, short sizes | As found; may need tailoring | Custom fit per measurements | Surplus will nearly always need alteration |
| Included Insignia | None or as ordered | Usually not included | None or as ordered | Budget separately for insignia |
| Price Range | $369+ (coat only) | $80–$200 (used tunic only) | $970+ (full package) | Full, new sets significantly costlier |
| Alterations Available | Yes (for fee) | At buyer’s expense | Included or available | Surplus requires extra tailoring |
| Return Policy | 30 days (unworn) | Store credit only/not accepted | 25% restocking fee after tailoring | Always check in advance |
| Certifications | MIL-SPEC/USMC certified | Varies (genuine issue if specified) | MIL-SPEC, USMC certified | Only buy surplus labeled as genuine |
| Availability | Limited / Preorder (coats); immediate for some sizes | Stock is variable/one-off | Limited—may experience delays | Plan ahead for special events/orders |
Related Video
Conclusion
Purchasing USMC Dress Blues is an investment in tradition, pride, and visual excellence. Whether you are an active Marine, a veteran, or a collector, understanding the differences between enlisted and officer uniforms, the implications of buying new versus surplus, and the details of accessorizing is essential. Ensure accurate fit, adhere to Marine Corps regulations, and treat your uniform with respect. With the right knowledge and preparation, your USMC Dress Blues will always serve as a symbol of honor and distinction.
FAQ
- What is included when I purchase USMC Dress Blues?
When buying new, you often buy the pieces separately: coat, trousers (blue or white), shirt, belt, shoes, gloves, and all insignia. Surplus options may include only the coat or full sets. Always check the seller’s product description for details.
- Do surplus or used Dress Blues meet current USMC uniform regulations?
Surplus or pre-owned Dress Blues can meet standards if they are labeled as “Genuine Issue” and are altered to fit properly, but may need replacement or addition of missing insignia, chevrons, or badges to be regulation-compliant.
- Can I return or exchange Dress Blues if they don’t fit?
Policies vary: new uniforms generally allow returns/exchanges before alteration; surplus is often final sale or store credit only. Always review the seller’s return policy before purchasing and try on or measure carefully.
- How do I get the correct size for my body?
Measure your chest, waist, inseam, neck, and sleeve length. Compare to size charts on the product page. For the sharpest appearance, professional tailoring is likely necessary, especially for used or surplus options.
- Are accessories like belts, insignia, and cufflinks included?
Usually, accessories are sold separately. Most new and surplus coats come without chevrons, insignia, belts, or medals; budget for these additional items when assembling your uniform.
- How do I care for and store my Dress Blues?
Dress Blues should be dry-cleaned only and stored in a garment bag, hung in a dark, dry closet. Regularly inspect for loose buttons, fading, or other wear, and address promptly.
- What is the price range for USMC Dress Blues?
New enlisted coats run about $369+ each, trousers about $80–100, and full officer packages near $1,000. Surplus coats range from $80–$200. Accessories, tailoring, and additional components add to the total price.
- Can civilians or non-Marines buy or wear USMC Dress Blues?
It is legal to own them, especially for collectors or reenactors, but impersonation of military personnel is prohibited by law. Wearing them publicly without military status is strongly discouraged and disrespectful.
- How do I know if I’m buying an authentic, regulation-compliant uniform?
Check for descriptions such as “Genuine Issue,” “MIL-SPEC,” or “USMC certified.” Reputable sellers will provide NSN numbers or specify compliance with Marine Corps regulations.
- How long does it take to receive my Dress Blues after ordering?
For new uniforms, allow 8–10 weeks due to production times and possible material shortages. Surplus or used uniforms typically ship faster but may require extra time for tailoring after you receive them. Always plan ahead for ceremonial deadlines.
