Veterans Day is a time to honor and thank the brave men and women who have served in the U.S. armed forces. Whether you’re attending a parade, ceremony, or a special celebration, choosing the right outfit can help you feel comfortable while showing respect for the significance of the day. If you’ve been wondering, what to wear on Veterans Day this guide is here to help.
We’ll break it down into practical, respectful outfit ideas for women, men, and veterans themselves.
What to Wear on Veterans Day if You’re a Woman
Choosing an outfit for Veterans Day depends on the event you’re attending. Here are some versatile ideas for women, ensuring you remain respectful yet stylish:
1. Attending Parades or Outdoor Events
If you’ll be outdoors, comfort and practicality should take priority. What to wear on Veterans Day if you’re outdoors? Opt for patriotic colors: Incorporate red, white, and blue into your outfit. For example, a navy cardigan, white blouse, and red scarf strike a perfect balance between comfort and respect.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking and standing. Sneakers or flat boots in neutral tones work well.
- Layer up for chillier climates with a tailored coat or a puffer jacket, preferably in subtle patriotic shades.
- Accessories like an American flag pin or a simple scarf can add a respectful, commemorative touch without overdoing it.
2. Formal Ceremonies or Indoor Gatherings
What to wear on Veterans Day if you’re attending a formal event? If you’re attending a formal ceremony or luncheon, aim for a polished and respectful look:
- Go for neutral-colored dresses or skirts with a blazer or cardigan. Navy, gray, and white are excellent choices for a formal, elegant touch.
- Pair with tailored trousers and a silk blouse for sophistication. Add a simple pendant, pin or pearl earrings for understated elegance.
- Maintaining professionalism is key; stay away from overly casual or loud clothing.
3. Volunteer Activities
What to wear on Veterans Day if you’re volunteering is much less tricky. Many Veterans Day events encourage community involvement. Whether you’re volunteering at a VA hospital or assisting with event logistics:
- Wear comfortable, casual clothing with a patriotic color scheme.
- A red t-shirt paired with jeans or khakis and white sneakers is an ideal, fuss-free combination.
- Consider wearing clothing that supports a cause, like a T-shirt from a veterans' organization or charity.
What to Wear on Veterans Day if You’re a Man
For men, the focus remains on practicality, respect, and patriotism. Here’s how to dress for various Veterans Day activities:
1. Parades and Outdoor Events
What to wear on Veterans Day isn’t complicated if you’re attending an outdoor event like a parade. Veterans Day parades are opportunities to honor service members, so your outfit should reflect the gravity of the occasion:
- Stick to neutral tones (navy, khaki, or gray) paired with patriotic accents. A collared shirt under a navy sweater with jeans, chinos, or tactical pants works great.
- Comfortable outerwear is essential for fall weather. Opt for a tailored coat like a navy pea coat or a utility jacket with subtle military-inspired details.
- Avoid clothing that is excessively casual, like tank tops or graphic tees unrelated to the event theme. Instead, an American flag pin on your lapel can show thoughtful respect.
2. Formal Events
What to wear on Veterans Day requires a little attention when attending a formal event. For official Veterans Day ceremonies or galas, dressing formally conveys the utmost respect:
- A well-fitted suit in navy or dark gray is a classic choice. Pair it with a crisp white shirt and a tie in subdued patriotic colors (red, blue, or stripes).
- If the event is less formal, a sports coat with pressed dress pants and a collared shirt can strike the same balance of respectability.
- Polished shoes and a groomed appearance complete the look.
3. Casual or Volunteer Activities
What to wear on Veterans Day is easier to figure out if you’re volunteering somewhere. If your day involves volunteering or attending a community fun run, your clothing should accommodate movement and comfort:
- A polo shirt in a patriotic hue paired with khakis or dark wash jeans is a casual yet respectful choice.
- Add layers like a fleece jacket or a clean hoodie if it’s cold.
- Functional footwear like sneakers or loafers ensures you’re prepared for active participation.
What to Wear on Veterans Day if You’re a Veteran
What to wear on Veterans Day if you’re a veteran isn’t complicated. For veterans themselves, this day holds special meaning, and your attire can reflect your pride, service, and sacrifice. Below are suggestions for iconic and meaningful outfits:
1. Uniforms
If you still have your military uniform and it fits comfortably, wearing it on Veterans Day can be a powerful statement of pride and honor, but only if you are allowed per regulations to still wear it. Check guidelines to ensure your uniform is worn according to regulations, even if you’re retired.
A neatly pressed uniform is always the gold standard, but be careful of pairing it with casual pieces if the event vibe suits it. For example, don't wear uniform items alone. Either wear the complete uniform, or don't wear it at all.Â
2. Service-Related Accessories
If you prefer not to wear your full uniform, consider wearing apparel or accessories that represent your branch of service:
- A baseball cap, jacket, or polo shirt featuring your branch’s insignia can commemorate your service subtly.
- Many veterans also wear medals or pins awarded during their service, which can be proudly displayed on your lapel or chest. USAMM has some great mini-ribbons that serve well in this manner.
3. Smart-Casual Styles with Personal Touches
Some veterans prefer a polished but understated look:
- A classic button-down paired with slacks or chinos strikes a respectful tone without feeling formal.
- Incorporate small touches of military pride, like Army green tones, camo accents, or a dog tag necklace.
4. Community Engagement Attire
If participating in volunteer or community activities, consider wearing clothing from veterans’ organizations to display your connection and support for the cause. For example, a T-shirt supporting your local VA hospital or a veteran-themed golf shirt paired with jeans and sneakers shows camaraderie while keeping comfort in mind.
Final Thoughts on What to Wear on Veterans Day
Veterans Day is not just another holiday on the calendar. It’s a day of celebration, gratitude, and honoring those who have served. Dressing thoughtfully, whether you’re attending an event or volunteering, is one way to pay your respects.
For civilians, incorporating patriotism into your outfit with colors, pins, or subtle accessories can show your appreciation. For veterans, wearing service-related attire or commemorative accessories helps preserve and share your story with others.
When you step out on Veterans Day, remember that your outfit symbolizes the values and sacrifices we’re all there to honor.