Delivering mail has been a profession for centuries. But what did postal workers wear in the past, and how did their uniforms evolve over time? In this article, I explore the history of French postal uniforms and show how they developed from military-style outfits into modern workwear.
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History of French postal uniforms
In 1576, France introduced a national postal system for the first time: the royal courier offices. This marked the beginning of modern postal delivery. During the sixteenth century, the first post offices gradually appeared. However, the profession of the postal worker did not yet exist. That changed in 1760, when the Small Post of Paris launched local delivery services. Other major cities soon followed this example.
Alongside this privately organised system, the Royal Post also expanded into major cities. In the nineteenth century, the government abolished private delivery services and took full control of mail delivery.
Before the state took over postal services, there was no official French postal uniform. Delivery workers provided their own clothing. After the takeover, the first uniforms were introduced: a blue coat and jacket with a red collar, combined with a top hat. This helped make postal workers recognisable in cities and villages.
French postal uniforms during the Second Empire (1852–1870)
During the Second Empire under Napoleon III, uniforms became more formal and focused on hierarchy. Higher-ranking postal workers wore a special postmaster coat with gold embroidery indicating rank and status. The more embroidery, the higher the rank. Epaulettes and shoulder details were also added. These uniforms were often worn with a kepi, which was also used for a long time by postal workers in the Netherlands.
High-ranking officials such as postmasters also carried a ceremonial sword, inspired by military traditions. This was not surprising, as many postal workers had a military background.
Military-inspired uniforms around 1900
Post Museum, Paris – La Poste
From the early twentieth century, postal workers were seen as representatives of the state. Formal uniforms with a military appearance remained, although in summer the kepi was sometimes replaced with a straw hat marked “postes”.
From formal to practical (1930–1945)
From 1930 onwards, uniforms became more practical and focused on the daily tasks of postal workers. Jackets became shorter to allow easier movement, and trousers were introduced as part of the uniform.
The clothing remained dark blue, but fabrics became lighter and more comfortable. Gradually, postal workers lost their formal status and were increasingly seen as service providers within the community.
The rise of female postal workers (1967–1975)
For a long time, postal delivery was a male profession. Apart from the First World War, when women played an important role, they were not allowed to work as postal workers.
From the 1970s onwards, this slowly changed. Female postal workers were introduced to the profession and received their own uniforms, consisting of a skirt, jacket and matching hat.
Uniforms became less military and more representative, aligning with the clothing worn by civilians.
French postal uniforms history: modernisation and redesign (1987)
In 1986, the national postal service, now called La Poste, launched a design competition for a new uniform. The requirements were clear: the uniform had to be modern, comfortable and protective.
La Poste also wanted to move away from a hierarchical look and introduce a more gender-neutral design to support equality.
Twelve designers entered the competition, and Fanchon Le Fouler won. The design combines dark blue with yellow details, which still appear in modern uniforms today.
French postal uniforms today (2026)
Although current uniforms still reflect the 1987 design, many things have changed in recent years. Since December 31, 1991, European labour legislation has included personal protective equipment. Postal workers now, for example, wear helmets while cycling.
Since 2025, companies in France must also sort and recycle used workwear. La Poste partnered with other organisations to set up a facility that shreds and reuses uniforms. These materials are then turned into new clothing, insulation materials and industrial cleaning cloths.
This shows that not only the appearance of French postal uniforms has evolved, but that the processes behind them continue to change as well.
If you would like to see these uniforms in person, you can visit an exhibition at the Musée Postal until September 22, 2026.
Want to read more about postal uniforms and changes within the sector?
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Kind regards,
Aileen
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