British Royal Navy Includes Saree in Its Official Dress Code

(Dress code refers to the set of rules regarding attire at a particular place.)

London (UK) – The British Royal Navy has officially included saree, salwar kameez, and lehenga in its formal dress code for female officers. This decision aims to make the naval uniform more inclusive. Under the new dress code, female officers can now wear cultural attire, such as a saree, under a formal jacket during official events.

🇬🇧👗 The UK’s Royal Navy has added the saree to its formal dress code! 🌈

As part of its “Cultural Equivalent” initiative, the navy is embracing diverse cultural identities.
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— Sanatan Prabhat (@SanatanPrabhat) February 8, 2025

Announcement by the Royal Navy Race Diversity Network (RDN)

Lance Corporal Jack Kanani, the chairman of RDN, shared this update on social media along with a photograph of Captain Durdana Ansari wearing a saree under a jacket. Female officers will also be required to wear a black bow tie and a white shirt with the saree.

Women’s Opinions Considered

Kanani mentioned that the decision was made after consulting female officers regarding policy changes.

Positive Reception

Many have praised this initiative, stating that it allows officers to serve while preserving their cultural and religious identity.