New updates to the Canadian Forces Dress Instructions provide additional clarity

June 5, 2024 - Defence Stories

New updates have been made to the Canadian Forces Dress Instructions to improve consistency in adhering to QR&O 17.02 QR&O: Volume I – Chapter 17 Dress And Appearance, where “the deportment and appearance of all ranks, in uniform or when wearing civilian attire, shall on all occasions reflect credit on the CAF and the individual.”

The changes will take effect on July 2, 2024. Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members and leaders now have the opportunity to review and understand these updates and make any adjustments before the changes take effect. The new updates include the following four key elements:

• Hair extending below the lower portion of the shirt collar must be tied back away from the face. The volume of hair must not prevent the proper wearing of the headdress or protective equipment.
• Where they are necessary, hair accessories such as bobby pins and/or barrettes must be black, or similar in colour to the member’s hair.
• Facial hair is to be no more than 2.5 cm (1 inch) in length/bulk for any style.
• Language and illustrations will be included in the grooming standard to clarify expectations.

Members obtaining a Religious or Spiritual Accommodation, in accordance with DAOD 5516-3, will have it inserted in their personnel file, alleviating the need for them to request the same accommodations following cyclical postings or unit transfers. Members should communicate these requirements to their chain of command. Leaders retain the right to impose restrictions based on the need to meet the safety and operational requirements of their operating context.

A significant update to the CF Dress Instructions occurred in September 2022 to make the policy more inclusive and less prohibitive, and to allow CAF members increased freedom to make personal choices regarding their appearance, while reflecting credit on the CAF and maintaining safety and operational effectiveness. While the changes have had many positive effects, there has been inconsistent interpretation and application.

“What got lost in translation is what we, who choose to serve, represent when we wear the CAF uniform,” says CAF CWO Bob McCann. “We do not represent just our individual selves but everyone who wore this uniform and fought before us so that we can enjoy the freedoms and way of life we get to enjoy today.”

The National Defence Clothing and Dress Committee meets regularly to discuss matters related to clothing and dress. Adjustments to the CF Dress Instructions are made to align with the stated principles and occur on an ongoing basis as required.

As society changes, our military adapts and evolves its standards to reflect the population that it serves. Leaders at all levels are responsible for maintaining professional standards within a diverse and inclusive work environment, so that personnel under their command meet the expectations of the CF Dress Instructions.