New Air Force Dress Code: High Boots Required, Eyelash Extensions Banned

The U.S. Air Force has introduced updated uniform and grooming guidelines designed to enhance readiness and ensure a consistent appearance throughout the ranks. 

Notable updates include enhanced standards for combat boots, a prohibition on eyelash extensions, and a new directive requiring all officers to possess at least one complete set of the Operational Camouflage Pattern (OCP) uniform. The announcements made on Thursday will be implemented gradually over the next 30 to 90 days.

The most significant alteration is the implementation of a minimum height requirement for combat boots. 

In a substantial update, all service members will be required to wear boots that measure between 8 and 12 inches from the heel tread to the top, with this regulation taking effect within the next 90 days. Furthermore, the height of the soles is limited to a maximum of 2 inches. As a result, numerous trendy low-cut, sneaker-style boots and trail shoes—once acceptable as long as they adhered to material and color standards—will now be prohibited.

The Air Force has announced a significant policy change, reversing a decision made four years ago by implementing a ban on eyelash extensions. This decision is grounded in the principles of uniformity and practicality. The official memo indicates that exceptions will be granted for service members who have medical conditions. The implementation of that rule will commence in 30 days.

The revised protocols mandate that every officer, irrespective of their position or location, must maintain a complete set of OCPs readily available. This encompasses versions that are not fire-retardant or those enhanced for hot-weather conditions. The regulation affects professions such as pilots, who generally don flight suits and may not frequently utilize OCPs. 

Individuals in OCPs can now roll their sleeves twice for enhanced comfort or operational efficiency, all while adhering to appearance standards. “These updates are a response to feedback from our NCOs and findings from readiness reviews throughout the force,” stated Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force David A. Flosi on his official Facebook page.

This represents the second major update to the uniform this year. In February, the Air Force brought back the definition of a “gig line,” removed specific duty patches, restricted nail polish colors, and enforced stricter grooming standards for male airmen.