Yes to beards, no to special patches: IDF releases new dress code

The IDF has released a new dress code for all soldiers and officers today , based on the decisions of a committee formed under previous Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi.

According to the statement, the rules were established by a committee formed in September 2024 to review the IDF Disciplinary Code. The committee included 17 staff members from all branches, forces, and departments.

The new dress code regulations will take effect starting tomorrow morning across all IDF units.

Here are the specifics:

"Beards - Men will be allowed to grow beards without special permission. The beard must be full and thick or French-style, but without "steps" (uneven levels). There will be a digital declaration where the soldier will state when he begins growing his beard, and he will be permitted to trim the beard or mustache to 2mm.

"Uniforms - Rules for wartime period only: Combat soldiers will wear combat uniforms when arriving at their unit, in the field, and when going home. Class A uniforms will be used for ceremonies and special events. Non-combat soldiers and career servicemembers will be permitted to wear Class B uniforms. There are plans to equip all career personnel in the IDF with designated Class B uniforms featuring patches, unit insignia, and name tags.

"Patches - The IDF only approves three types: Israeli flag, name tag, and unit insignia. Beyond these three, IDF soldiers will not be permitted to attach any other type of patch to their uniforms.

"Nail polish - Female career servicemembers will be permitted to apply nail polish in any color of their choice, except for glittery colors and designs, and must maintain consistency across all fingers. They will also be allowed to wear two earrings in each ear.

"Career servicemembers, both men and women, are permitted to wear a ring on their finger - even if they are not married."