Image: An internal document revealed that the traditional No 1 jacket will be swapped for a redesigned version | ROYAL NAVY
By Open Chronicle with agencies
The Royal Navy is set to spend up to £200,000 redesigning ceremonial uniforms worn by female officers after internal concerns were raised about the placement of decorative buttons on the jackets.
According to internal documents cited by British media, the redesign will affect the women’s No. 1 ceremonial jacket, which is worn during official events and formal occasions, including by senior royal figures such as Anne, Princess Royal.
The changes will reportedly be funded “at the Crown’s expense,” meaning the cost will ultimately be covered by taxpayers.
Concerns Over “Inappropriately Placed” Buttons
The existing design includes four rows of two buttons, with the upper pair positioned at chest level.
Under the revised version, all eight buttons will be moved lower down on the jacket, following complaints from serving personnel regarding the fit and appearance of the uniform.
According to a temporary memorandum distributed across the fleet, the Navy concluded that the placement of the top decorative buttons on the previous design was considered “inappropriately placed.”
The issue only affects commissioned female officers because non-commissioned personnel, including petty officers and warrant officers, wear a different style featuring only three rows of buttons.
Royal Navy Defends Changes
A spokesperson for the Royal Navy defended the redesign, describing it as part of the service’s ongoing modernization efforts while balancing tradition and operational practicality.
“The Navy is both a modern organisation that continuously adapts and is also hugely proud of our history,” the spokesperson said.
Officials added that the redesign responds directly to concerns raised by serving women and represents what they described as a positive step for female personnel.
The Navy also stated that the financial impact would be partially offset through reductions in the number of uniforms issued.
Rollout to Begin This Year
British media reports indicate that more than 950 serving female officers are expected to receive the updated ceremonial jackets over the coming year.
The redesign highlights broader discussions within military institutions about adapting long-standing uniform traditions to modern standards regarding practicality, inclusivity, and comfort.
The Royal Navy has undergone several modernization efforts in recent years involving recruitment policies, equipment updates, and workplace reforms aimed at improving conditions for women serving across different branches of the force.