JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
New uniform regulations regarding changes to Navy women's handbags were recently announced by the Chief of Naval Operations. Service members are encouraged to make the changes now before the new policy is in full effect this October.
Woman may continue to wear civilian handbags when in uniform while staying within the new specifications.
The handbag must be plain black, brown, white grain leather or synthetic leather. It must be rectangular in shape and designed with a magnetic flap or zipper. The strap of the handbag may be single or double, but must be the same color and material as the purse. The color of the purse must match the color of shoes being worn.
The dimensions must be between seven and a half to 14 inches in width, five and a half to 11 inches in height and two to four inches deep.
Service members may no longer carry handbags covered in material considered exotic such as: eel, alligator or ostrich skin. Purses may not show decorative stitching, embossed design or a manufacturer's logo.
The correct wear of a purse while in uniform is over the left shoulder or forearm placing the top of the purse at waist level.
For more information on uniform changes or to provide feedback visit:
http://WWW.public.navy.mil/bupers-npc/support/unifroms/pages/