Why are Navy uniforms white? All you need to know

We have consistently connected the Merchant Navy with the white-hued outfits they wear. It is said that white is the colour of peace, and in the olden days, as seafarers travelled to countries to explore, they were named the messenger of peace. For the Navy, white is the colour of power and dominance also. White is a versatile and royal colour, also has other exciting significance.

Cotton was one of the earliest and most used materials for making clothes in the olden days, white in its very raw form. Navy being the oldest global profession, got associated with white uniforms. Therefore, the most used colour by seafarers is white. The process of dyeing was discovered later.

White is viewed as a symbol of integrity, purity and harmony. Therefore, the Navy connotes its adherence to the most elevated moral standards by taking on white. Moreover, because this symbolism exists across cultures when a layperson sees an official, they would unknowingly connect him with positive values in general.

The white tone reflects daylight and keeps the individual wearing it cool. On account of dull hued garments, they absorb heat and cause more blazing. Assuming an official must be at the deck for quite a while, at that point, white clothes are desirable over dim ones. It is a significant motivation behind why a majority of maritime uniforms are white across various societies.

The colour white reflects most of the light that falls upon it, recognizing white is unmistakable. It is particularly valuable assuming there is low visibility and darkness, and white appears bright even in soft light surroundings. Hence, white builds one’s possibilities of being saved adrift or even submerged. Sailor’s survival eases in the situation of power outages and blackouts.

Spots, stains and marks of all types stand out in white material. Considering this, naval personnel are relied upon to clean themselves routinely and consider their attire diligently. A sense of health, hygiene and discipline is maintained.

Also Watch Video: Why Cruise Ships And Yachts Are Mostly Painted White

White is the combination of 7 colours – Violet, Indigo, Blue, Green, Yellow, Orange and Red (VIBGYOR). The Navy, particularly the Indian Navy, has utilized this to address the world’s blend of ‘seven oceans’. It signifies that the Navy is fit for exploring the seven oceans and is prepared to take any challenge in any planet area.

White is generally seen as addressing poise and class. As a result, formal wear in many areas of the planet is either solely white or consolidates a ton of white textures. Similarly, white provides naval force staff with quality of polish and style.

White addresses moderate aesthetics. It goes somewhat well with the discipline and the standards of the Navy. The officials should epitomize an honourable persona without being excessively flashy or tacky. White precisely addresses the ethos of naval force without exaggerating its own goals. Minimalism works best for describing any team of such ultimate valour.