18–1. Authorization for wear
The male white mess/evening mess uniform is authorized for optional wear by all male personnel.
Personnel normally wear these uniforms from April to October, except in clothing zones I and II, where they may wear them year-round (see CTA 50–900).
Referenced Publication: CTA 50–900
CTA 50–900 prescribes clothing zones and authorized clothing and individual equipment for Army personnel.
See DA Pam 670–1 for uniforms currently classified as male white mess/evening mess uniforms and for authorized variations of the uniform.
Referenced Publication: DA Pam 670–1
DA Pam 670–1 provides guidance regarding male white mess/evening mess uniforms and authorized uniform variations.
18–2. Composition
The male white mess uniform consists of the following:
- Jacket.
- Trousers.
- Shirt.
- Necktie, bow.
- Cummerbund or vest.
- Footwear.
- Undergarments.
- Undershirt.
- Socks.
18–3. Occasions for wear
a. All-purpose wear
The male white mess/evening mess uniform is authorized for wear on and off duty, on and off the installation, unless restricted by the commander.
The male white mess/evening mess uniform is not intended for wear as an all-purpose uniform.
The male white mess uniform is worn for black-tie functions and corresponds to a civilian tuxedo.
The male white evening mess uniform is the most formal uniform worn by Army personnel and corresponds to the civilian “white tie and tails.”
b. Approved wear
The male white mess/evening mess uniform is prescribed for wear from April to October, ex-cept in clothing zones I and II where it may be worn year-round, by all Soldiers, unless otherwise directed by the commander.
Soldiers may wear variations of the male white mess uniform—
(1)
On duty when prescribed by the local commander.
(2)
At social functions of a general or official nature, held after retreat, and while in transit to and from such functions.
(3)
At private, formal dinners, or other social functions, held after retreat.
c. Restrictions on wear
(1)
Soldiers may not wear the male white mess uniform for commercial travel per paragraphs 3–7b through 3–7c.
Referenced Paragraphs: paragraphs 3–7b through 3–7c
Paragraph 3–7b establishes policy regarding official travel and authorized civilian or military attire during travel.
Paragraph 3–7c establishes authorized uniform wear during official travel by commercial means.
(2)
Personnel may not wear the male white mess uniform in off-post establishments that primarily sell alcohol for consumption on the premises.
If the off-post establishment sells alcohol and food for consumption on the premises, Soldiers may not wear the uniform if their activities in the establishment center on the drinking of alcohol.
(3)
Commanders may further restrict wear of the male white mess uniform per paragraphs 2–6, 2–7a, and 2–7b.
Referenced Paragraphs: paragraphs 2–6, 2–7a, and 2–7b
Paragraph 2–6 establishes commander responsibilities regarding Army uniform policy and standards.
Paragraph 2–7a establishes commander authority regarding prescribed uniforms for formations.
Paragraph 2–7b establishes commander authority regarding uniforms within maneuver areas and operational environments.