How to Hang Your Uniform

How to Wear Your Uniform

Marching Band Uniform FAQs

Congratulations, you have been assigned a new DMHS uniform designed by Mr. Hummel. These new uniforms are versatile to accommodate future program themes with removable shako wraps, undershirts, and hidden shoulder zippers. Uniforms are only purchased about every 10-12 years and are meant to last long. As the first person wearing this uniform, it’s up to you to keep it in good condition for future Marching Wolves. Thank you for being a responsible student. 

What do I wear under my uniform? Wear your assigned black undershirt with light-weight athletic compression shorts or leggings and black crew socks. 

How do I wear my hair? If you have long hair, it must be worn in a ponytail, bun, French braid, corn rows, etc. All hair must fit under the shako—absolutely NO HAIR ON SHOULDERS. 

Where is my uniform? Marching Band uniforms and shakos are the property of DMHS and are stored at the school for safekeeping. Before a performance or home game, Mr. Hummel will notify you when it is time to pick up your uniform from the Uniform Closet near the stairwell. 

What is my uniform/shako number? Every uniform is identified by a number and organized on the racks in number order. A list of students and their uniform numbers is posted during uniform check out; however, it is helpful if you memorize your uniform number. 

How do I store the shako wrap? After a performance, carefully remove the fabric wrap from the shako.  Place the wrap flat on the bottom of the box, and place the shako upside on top of the wrap. 

What if I forgot something from home that is part of my uniform? Tell Mr. Hummel or a parent volunteer immediately if you don’t have your shoes, gloves, wristbands, black undershirt, or socks. Often you can borrow the missing item for the performance, or a uniform parent volunteer can help you purchase a new item(s).  

How do I put on the plume (feather)? Parent volunteers put plumes in shakos (hats) before a performance and collect them immediately after. Do not remove your plume or anyone else’s.  

What do I do if my bibbers are too long? Bibbers can be adjusted to fit. Shoulder straps are adjustable. Make sure the crotch doesn’t sag. You should be able to walk, sit, crouch, and stand comfortably. 

Bibber cuffs are adjustable. The best way to adjust the hem is to wear the bibbers inside out with your shoes. Have another person fold the cuffs until the bottom of the pants reaches the tops of your shoes. Then snap the closest clip on both sides of the pant leg. Watch a helpful video here.

Turn the bibbers right-side out and ensure a crease at the bottom. 

How do I wash my black undershirt? Black undershirts can be washed at home in the washing machine, but they CAN NOT be dried in the dryer. Undershirts MUST BE AIR DRIED. Hang it on a bathroom towel rack or a hanger. If you put the undershirt in a dryer, IT WILL MELT because it is made from a synthetic fabric.  

Can I keep my Drillmasters shoes at school? Yes. It is recommended you store your black Drillmasters shoes at school. Doing so ensures you never forget to wear them for a performance.

Can I keep my socks in my shoe box? No. Socks are to be laundered and kept at home. Sweaty socks can lead to athlete’s foot. Only black Drillmasters shoes are to be stored in shoe boxes. 

What’s an inspection? Your section leader holds uniform inspections before performances. If you do not have the proper accessories (undershirt, socks, shoes, etc.), you may not be allowed to perform, and your course grade will be affected.  

How come I can’t wear nail polish or jewelry during performances? Do not wear makeup, large earrings, or colored nail polish during performances and competitions. Points can be deducted if judges get distracted. The goal of wearing a uniform is to have everyone dressed the same and look exactly alike. 

Can I wear perfume with my uniform? No. Your uniform is new, and it must be kept as pristine as possible. Do not use sparkle spray or perfume. Deodorant is ok. 

Are garment bags disposable? No. The black garment bag is a part of your uniform and must be treated with respect. Each uniform comes with a garment bag so the uniform can be stored properly. Garment bags can also store gauntlets, gloves, etc. Please do not throw them on the floor or walk on them. Instead, hang the garment bag from a locker in the band room as you get dressed. Make sure you use the same garment bag when putting away your uniform. Do not mix up garment bags with others. Use the same bag for your uniform all the time. If your bag rips or doesn’t zip, inform a uniform parent volunteer who can get you a new one. 

What do I do if part of my uniform/shako is broken or missing? If there are any issues with your uniform or shako, tell Mr. Hummel or a uniform parent volunteer immediately. Replacement parts are available so they can be taken care of quickly. It’s common to have tack buttons, chin straps, or zippers fall off or break. 

How do I put my uniform back after a performance? When ready to return your uniform, properly hang it, re-box your shako and wrap, re-box your shoes, and bring them all to the Uniform Closet. DO NOT ZIP the garment bag. Leave the garment bag open so the uniform can air out. Store gauntlets, wrist bands, and gloves in the garment bag pouch. Return any borrowed items. 

How do I hang my uniform correctly and put it in the garment after wearing it? You are responsible for properly hanging your bibbers and jacket inside the garment bag before returning them to the Uniform Closet. Bibbers should be folded along the crease (line up inside seams and fold in half over the hanger) and secured on the hanger. Jackets should be hung and zippered with the front of the jacket facing the garment bag opening. Uniform parent volunteers will check to ensure you do so. If bibbers are not hung correctly or your jacket is not zipped, you will be required to re-hang them until you get it right. 

Other Dos and Don’ts 

• Don’t wear your jacket when eating. 

• Don’t chew gum while wearing your uniform. 

• Don’t take the straps on your bibbers down. 

• Don’t sit on the ground or asphalt parking lots. 

• Do turn the jacket inside out and gently place it on the bleachers with the shako. 

• Do make every effort to sit on clean surfaces.