Why white & blue Navy Uniforms?

[valtrex]

I was reading a book the other day, about the historical evolution of the Hellenic Navy uniforms from the 19th century till now. I wonder: How come most of the Navies of the world have white coloured summer uniforms & blue for winter? Is there some kind of International "silent accord"? Thanx

[J.T. Broderick]

The world-wide, dominating influence of the British Royal Navy in the 18th and 19th centuries was the biggest influence on most nations' naval dress. The reason for the dark blue color is not known, though there are various stores as to why it was chosen in 1748.

Most sailors did not have a regulated uniform till the late 1800s, but made their own clothes or bought them from Pursers' stores. White duck or light canvas was popular for warm weather clothing, and became part of the standard uniform.

Officers usually wore their blue coats with white pants and caps or straw hats in warm weather, but around 1880 all-white uniforms for officers appeared.

The only other contender for summer naval uniforms is khaki, which in the US Navy was originally for naval aviation but became so popular that it was extended to the whole navy before WWII.

best regards,
Justin

[Eugen Pinak]

valtrex:
As for "blue" uniform, one reason is given by J.T. Broderick - British Royal Navy . Another is that this cloth of this color was easy to make and easy to mantain, so it was very popular in many armies and then "went" to the navies as well (for example, French blue naval uniform has absolutely no connections with Royal Navy).
As for the "white" uniform, this is easy - uncolored cotton, etc. was the most widespread uniform in hot climate.

Best regards,
Eugen Pinak