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With inclusivity in mind, the British Royal Navy has taken a bold step. From now on, members are allowed to combine their uniform with cultural garments during official occasions. This results in an interesting mix of clothing. And not everyone is pleased with it.
Royal Navy members now allowed to combine cultural clothing with uniform
The news was recently shared on the X account of the Royal Navy Race Diversity Network. Two years ago, the advocacy group conducted a study examining how Royal Navy personnel can preserve their cultural identity. The dress code already allowed individuals with a Scottish, Irish, Welsh, Cornish, or Manx background to wear a kilt or tartan dress (plaid dress). Now, saris and other cultural garments may also be combined with the uniform. At least, that’s what was shared on X; in the photo, I also see people who are not wearing a uniform or any part of it at all.
The new dress code has sparked a lot of criticism. Philip Mathias, a retired commander of a nuclear submarine, believes that the Royal Navy is heading in the wrong direction. “The purpose of a uniform in a disciplined fighting force is to create a common identity, not to emphasize differences… Instead of holding a fashion parade, this team should have been helping to recruit sailors from diverse cultural backgrounds,” said Mathias.
When a uniform is no longer uniform
I am a strong advocate for workplace diversity, but I also believe this should be handled carefully. When it comes to work attire, uniforms, and dress codes, there must always be a balance between personal expression and a professional appearance. This is not to say that someone wearing a cultural garment looks unprofessional. It just needs to fit within the company where it is worn. For example, it is not unusual for a school to have a dress code to ensure teachers dress neatly. However, such dress codes often allow room for personal style.
When it comes to uniforms, there is generally less space for personal style. The word itself says it all—it is about a uniform appearance. That is the purpose, or at least one of the purposes, of this type of clothing. I agree with Mathias on this point. With the new dress code, the uniform loses its purpose. It has now become more like corporate attire, which can be worn according to personal preference.
Even though I am not in favor of it, I do understand the decision. If the kilt or tartan dress is allowed, other cultural garments cannot simply be excluded. That would actually be a form of discrimination. And in today’s modern world, that could lead to significant issues. The mistake was made earlier. When implementing a uniform, one must be strict. Everyone wears the same thing, period. Once an exception is made, more will follow, and there will be no end in sight.
What do you think of the new dress code?
Greetings,
Aileen