Originally Posted by
MTSUFlyer
Poolies and new hires,
Particularly the military folk who've never owned a shirt with epaulets, did you wait until after indoc to purchase uniform attire? I don't want to get the cart before the horse as I still have ~3 months until indoc, but I'm just trying to do some budgeting.
Do they tell you at indoc good places to pick up your uniform? Did you just wear a nice button up shirt, tie, and slacks at indoc? How much did the entire uniform cost? Did you purchase short and long sleeve shirts? I did some searching on other threads and it seems Abbott's is the most expensive but their quality has been waning in the past few years. Any other suggestions?
First of all, the "uniform" during training and around the school house during indoc, systems and sims is business casual. Collared shirt (button down or polo), nice pants, NO jeans, professional looking shoes.
As far as uniforms for the line, the three approved vendors (Abbott, Crew Outfitters and one other one) do come in during the first week of indoc to give you their presentations on packages and such. Doesn't really matter when you order the uniform, just be sure to have it by the start of IOE. I think the best time to order your uniform is near the beginning of systems. Here's my thinking: you will have an opportunity to stop into the vendors along Virginia Ave., look at the items up close, try 'em on and compare. This will also give you a few weeks of lead time to get items ordered, delivered to the shop, you'll still be local for any alterations and then get things in place (such as mailed home) for IOE. I don't know about the other places, but Abbott has the items sent to the shop off Virginia Ave., does any alterations needed and then ships it wherever you want. All included in the price and took about 4-5 weeks from order to arriving at my doorstep.
Each of the vendors do offer packages in the $500 range but the contents of those packages does vary but you don't HAVE to order the package. Personally, I went a la carte and ordered the jacket, a pair of pants (just to try 'em out) and brass from Abbott and the hat from Crew Outfitters (Premier Hat Co.). Being prior 121, I've always bought my pants at Macy's (suit seperates) and my shirts online from Pilot House. As far as shirts and pants, just find something that fits your personal preference. And you will develop a preference. It seems like every 6 months there's a thread on pilot shirts, just do a search if you're curious. Same with luggage and security friendly shoes.
If you are coming out of the military and starting from scratch, at a minimum you will need a jacket, 2-3 pairs of pants, 4-5 shirts (most guys go short sleeves), hat, brass/name plates, tie, belt, shoes. You can expect to spend about $600-700 once you include luggage and shoes and such. If you want a fancy laptop bag or cooler bag, add another $100. Definitely definitely definitely get some advice on what you REALLY need as far uniforms and what really works as far as luggage from the prior 121 guys. And for the love of god, don't go cheap on luggage! Hopes this helps.