The marching band has evolved from military and police traditions to the entertainment role it plays today, most notably during football half-time shows. Marching band uniforms have remained a throwback to early outfits, with a variety of variations available to give each band its own look. Although some marching bands perform in just tuxedos or matching shirts and pants, the basic components usually include an embroidered uniform jacket with matching pants, elaborate headgear, white gloves, coordinating boots, and occasionally some flair such as a cape. Despite the protests, the tops of the hats are frequently adorned with a long plume of feathers.
The color combination on the jacket is one of the most distinguishing features of all marching band uniforms. This is frequently, but not always, the school or team colors. Exaggerated shoulders and large, double-breasted buttons are common features of the coat. The band’s name will be prominently embroidered on the front, back, or even both sides. It’s then paired with a pair of dark or white slacks, sometimes with a pinstripe down the leg.
Some band directors opt for a military-style helmet in a flat or metallic color that can be left plain or embellished with feather plumage and brass or rope accents. Others prefer the band tradition of wearing hats instead. The busis a domed, fur-coated hat with a color-coordinating feather. The shako hat is shaped like a cap and sits just above the crown of the head, with a small visor and the ever-present plume pointing skyward. With its wide brim and cascading feather, the Australian style provides far the most sun protection.
The use of plumage in marching band uniforms dates back to military times, when bands were used to signal battlefield conditions and orders. While some directors prefer masculine helmets without feathers, the majority of directors prefer plumes because they give the band members a larger profile and cast longer shadows on the field. Some plumes cascade down the back of the head like a tiger’s mane, while others rise straight up like a feather duster. These plumes come in a variety of colors and are usually tucked in on one side of the head and draped backward in a tail.
Most marching band uniforms are completed with a pair of white or black gloves and dress shoes that look like dress shoes. However, some people go even further. Marching band uniforms often include capes, especially when performing certain types of music, such as a medley of show tunes. Many band directors award rank to their best players on each instrument, usually in the form of roped cords that wrap around one or both arms, a military tradition.