American Civil War Clothing & Uniforms

The American Civil produced many variations of uniforms on both sides. Both the Union and Confederacy had an army, a navy, and marine corps. Each branch of either military wore different uniforms. These uniforms were even more complicated in the beginning of the war when state militias reported for duty because they did not have standard uniforms.

Commonly, the Confederate forces wore gray while the Union federalists wore blue uniforms. In addition to clothing, there are a variety of accessories available for collectors including boots, belts, and hats. There are also a variety of different medals that varied between the Union and Confederacy, as well as state militia decorations that varied greatly between states.

Quick Facts

• While gray is commonly associated with the Confederates, and blue with the Union, during the beginning of the war the issue was confused because some Union militias wore gray and vice versa
• Some militia uniforms were quite eccentric and features wide, baggy pants, and a fez or turban
• Specialized units like cavalry and artillery had uniform distinctions, including stripes on the pants and trim on the tunic