Uniform Standards
Do's and Don'ts
1. No Sky-blue Federal trousers.
2. No modern day cowboy hats, sombreros, work boots, chukka boots, combat boots, cowboy boots.
3. No hat plumes, chicken bones, animal parts, coon tails etc. affixed to hats or clothing.
4. No modern eyeglasses or sunglasses
5. No modern wristwatches.
6. No Modern western saddles, tack, or bits
8. Modern saddle pads should not be used. In those instances where it is necessary for the comfort of the horse that modern saddle pads be used, those pads should be covered or disguised so as not to be seen or noticed.

When chosing clothing remember, we are portaying a regular unit, not a ranger unit.  Before you buy it, think to yourself,  Would this have been Army issued?   Also please note, just because a sutler sales it, doesn't mean it is historically accurate and / or accurate for this theater of the war!   When in doubt, ask!
Hats
The most common hats worn by cavalry soldiers in this theater of the war, were slouch hats. The actual historic ration of slouch hats to kepis was closer to 50/50.  Straw hats did not last more than 5 months in civilian life and therefore were quite rare in the army and should be avoided. Captured federal headgear should be extremely limited. Hat blanks, cowboy hats or hilly-billy hats should be strictly avoided. A quality hat from Clearwater or Dirty Billy's will run $80.00 to $100.00 but it will be well worth it! They are not only correct but last for years in all kinds of weather. Cheap hats look bad and tend to have a short life span.
Shirts
Shirts should be of the proper pullover pattern and should be made of the correct material, preferably homespun cotton. No modern buttons including plastic.   The wearing of bright red shirts or large plastron front shirts is not accurate.
Trousers/Suspenders
Trousers should be the correct military pattern made of cotton/wool gray cloth. No Federal Sky Blue Kersey trousers.
Shell Jacket
These jackets represent the most common  manufactured uniform coat used at the time. They must be constructed using the proper natural or gray jean material.
Boots/Shoes
Shoes brogans or period boots.   No Cowboy, Wellington or East German army boots. Work, combat, or hiking boots are not to be used. No moccasins.
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