a. This uniform is designed to fit loosely; alterations to make the uniform fit tightly are not authorized. A tight fit reduces the airflow needed for ventilation and cooling. The coat is worn outside the trousers. Soldiers will not wear a belt with this uniform. Soldiers will wear the trousers bloused, using the draw cords or blousing rubbers, if the trousers are not tucked into the boots. Personnel will not wrap the trouser legs around the leg tightly enough to present a pegged appearance. Soldiers will not blouse the boots so that the trouser leg extends down to the ankle area. When bloused, the trousers should not extend below the third eyelet from the top of the boot. When soldiers wear the sleeves of the coat rolled up, the camouflage pattern will remain exposed. Personnel will roll the sleeves neatly above the elbow, no more than 3 inches above the elbow.
b. The commander may require that soldiers press the maternity work uniform when an especially sharp appearance is required for special occasions, such as parades, reviews, inspections, or other ceremonial occasions. Soldiers are authorized to starch the maternity work uniform; however, commanders may not require soldiers to do so. Soldiers are authorized to press military creases in the BDU coat (see para 1.9a(4)).
c. The black beret became the basic headgear for this uniform on 14 June 2001. (See para 3.5 of this regulation for wear policy of the beret and other headgear.)
d. Soldiers may wear the black all-weather coat with the uniform in garrison. When coats are worn, soldiers may wear them unbuttoned and unzipped, if necessary. Soldiers may wear the black leather shell gloves with this uniform without cold weather outer garments, provided that the sleeves are rolled down. When the cold weather coat or other authorized cold-weather outer garments are worn, personnel may wear the olive-green scarf and the black leather shell gloves, but they are not required to do so. Soldiers will wear the shirt collar inside the cold-weather coat and other outer garments. Personnel may carry handbags with this uniform, but only while in a garrison environment.
e. Commanders may authorize the use of a camouflage personal hydration system only in the following situations: in a field environment, in high-heat areas, or on work details. Soldiers will not carry hydration systems in a garrison environment unless the commander has authorized it for one of the situations described above. Soldiers will not let the drinking tube hang from their mouths when the device is not in use.