New Army Dress Code Directive Now Active

FORT BRAGG, NC — The U.S. Army has announced the implementation of Directive 2025-18: Appearance, Grooming, Uniform Wear & Body Composition Standards, marking a renewed emphasis on discipline, uniformity, and professionalism across the force. The updated policy, now in effect, refines standards for hairstyles, cosmetics, nails, jewelry, and overall appearance for both male and female soldiers. Service members have 30 days from the directive’s release to comply.

The directive seeks to ensure consistency across ranks while balancing modern expectations of representation and readiness. The Army states that these changes aim to reinforce “a disciplined image that reflects the pride and professionalism of America’

s soldiers.”

Female soldiers will now follow updated grooming and appearance standards. Ponytails may extend no more than six inches from the collar and are prohibited with service or dress uniforms. Braids, twists, locs, and cornrows may be worn in up to two styles, each no wider than two inches. Short sides with longer tops are permitted as long as the top length does not exceed two inches and transitions are blended, with shaved designs strictly prohibited.

Eyelash extensions and false lashes are banned except for those with medical exemptions. Makeup must remain conservative, featuring natural tones only. Semi-permanent cosmetics are allowed if they follo

w the same guidelines, while tattooed makeup and lipstick are prohibited. Clear or skin-toned lip gloss is acceptable.

For nails, the maximum length is one-quarter inch, with square or rounded tips, and only clear polish is authorized. Jewelry regulations allow one plain stud earring per earlobe, up to one-quarter inch in diameter. Earrings must match and cannot be worn during field training, deployments, or physical training sessions.

Male soldiers will also see renewed enforcement of traditional grooming standards. Hair on top may not exceed two inches in length, with sides trimmed to one inch or less. Hair must maintain a natural color and a subtle, blended appearance. Braids, twists, locs, cornrows, and shaved-in designs are prohibited. Nails must remain clean and not extend past the fingertips, with no polish permitted. Cosmetics and earrings remain unauthorized for male soldiers in uniform.

In a lighthearted moment, FayToday News paired the Army’s official policy updates with a visual outside Fort Bragg, using humor to help illustrate the directive’s detailed changes and their impact on soldiers and families across Cumberland County.

While some soldiers view the changes as a return to stricter tradition, leadership has emphasized that consistency in professional standards plays a key role in maintaining the Army’s image, cohesion, and public trust.

Kres Thomas | FayToday News