Members of the Canadian Armed Forces will soon sport a new look this September after the Department of National Defence unveiled its updated dress code Tuesday.
Starting in early September, CAF members can colour or grow out their hair, wear non-costume jewellery, such as rings and necklaces, and display facial tattoos.
Male and female uniforms are also becoming available to all genders and may be intermixed, so soldiers can wear any items that best fit them.
Other changes include permitting a CAF member to wear long fingernails, eyelash extensions, ear piercings, sunglasses and slinging a backpack over one shoulder.
Officials say the new dress code must not interfere with a soldier’s daily tasks, so long hair, for example, must be tied back or covered with a scarf.
Behavioural expectations are also more lenient, removing a clause that forbade a soldier from “chewing gum, slouching, placing hands in pockets, smoking or eating on the street and walking hand in hand.”
It remains a soldier’s responsibility, however, to present themselves professionally while in uniform.
Gen. Wayne Eyre, Canada’s chief of the defence staff, said uniformity has traditional uses as a method of discipline.
“But uniformity does not equal discipline or operational effectiveness any more than the colour or length of your hair defines your commitment or professional competence,” said Eyre in a video posted on social media.
Eyre said the CAF will balance its traditions with societal expectations and the needs of service while “addressing the inherent tension created by accelerated generational change.”
The military also plans to make more changes in the coming months.
“What we will not change is our need to be a disciplined and operationally effective force,” he said.
“The Canadian Armed Forces is based on solid ethical principles and values of mutual respect. Our appearance in uniform, just like our standards, shall always be positive and professional at all times.”
The Canadian Forces Dress Instructions are being updated. The revisions will honour the diversity of all members by removing barriers related to choice of clothing and other aspects of professional appearance in uniform. #MyCAF pic.twitter.com/rdobRQCmRT
— Canadian Armed Forces (@CanadianForces) July 5, 2022
