Proper U.S. Marine Uniforms

The U.S. Marine Corps dress uniform is called the "Dress Blues" due to the primary royal blue color. The military blue is the national color of the United States. The Dress Blues are worn for ceremonial purposes.

Buttons

• The buttons on the Dress Blues feature an eagle and anchor. The emblems have been on the uniform since 1804, which makes them the oldest military insignia in continued use.

Stripe

• A red stripe runs down each trouser leg of the dress blues worn by noncommissioned officers, staff noncommissioned officers and officers. The solid red stripe is known as the "blood stripe" and became part of the uniform in 1849. The stripe is worn in honor of the memory of fallen comrades.

Collar

• The Marine Dress Blues collar is worn to reflect the original Marine uniform of the American Revolution. The original high collar was produced with a leather neck to protect Marines from sword blows. The term "leatherneck," by which Marines are known, is derived from the original uniform.