OPHS Marching Band Uniform Guidelines


Jackets and Pants: While we make every attempt to alter jackets and pants as needed, it may still be necessary for us to make adjustments. We understand things may need attention after you have worn your uniform a little while. Let us know if you need to adjust the straps to your pants, as we will most likely have to alter the hem. While dressed in your uniform, please keep your jacket on and zipped. Under your uniform you must always wear a layer of clothing. These should be modest garments in case you must change in slightly public area like the band room or bus.

For cold weather, plan on wearing long under-layers. Keep it neat! Nothing should be “peeking” out of your sleeves or pant leg.

Uniforms have a specific way that they must be placed on the hanger for storage in the uniform closet. Pants must be folded seams together and on the crease and draped evenly over the hanger. Suspenders neatly tucked in. Jackets must be zipped and buttoned on the shoulder with the curve of the hanger going with the shoulder of the jacket. Make sure that all personal items have been removed from your jacket pocket after each game.

Hats need to be secure enough not to wobble. Straps should be worn under the chin and adjusted as necessary. Hair should be neatly pulled back and out of the face and eyes.

Plumes are placed on the band hats just before the show. Band members are not to put on or remove plumes from their hats. A band parent will be there to perform this task. Band members should line up quickly and quietly until they have been “plumed” and then report to their sections.

Gloves: You will be issued one pair of gloves. Try your best to keep them clean and keep track of them. Please take them home and wash them occasionally! (Fasten with safety pin, cold water wash, and tumble dry on cool.)


Shoes and Socks: Your marching shoes should be clean from dirt and scuff marks. You MUST wear black calf-length socks with your uniform! Special marching shoes are purchased during band camp. We do accept donations of marching shoes that are in excellent condition that can be purchased at a reduced cost, although sizes are limited. Donations are always needed and accepted (hint, hint seniors).


Storage: Marching band uniforms are stored in the band room. Band members must return their uniforms to the room after each game. Make sure it is hung correctly or you will be sent back to try again. Uniforms will only be taken home for the Christmas Parade event. All band uniforms must be returned to the band room before the holidays to prepare for their annual dry cleaning.


Cleaning: Your band fees pay for the initial cleaning of the marching band uniforms at the end of the season. You will start the season in a fresh uniform and it will be your responsibility to keep it as clean as possible throughout the season. You may want to purchase a Tide-to-go pen to remove any small stains that may occur during the season. Limit your eating and drinking when dressed in the uniform to avoid nasty stains.

All marching band uniforms must be returned to the uniform coordinator before the Christmas holiday or other designated date for annual dry cleaning. If a uniform is not returned by the designated date, the student is responsible for dry cleaning the uniform at their own expense.


“Game Day” Casual Uniform: All band and guard are required to wear their black “Game Day” polo and tan/khaki pants with black socks to school. The Band Director may substitute this wear as the uniform on very hot evenings.