Did Royal Navy working uniforms change substantially during the world wars?
Short answerThe basic working uniform changed little, although flash gear and other protective clothing improved.
NotesEveryday uniform remained stable while protective clothing changed with combat experience. The Royal Navy did not normally redesign its working dress extensively during a war. Flash gear and related protective items could still be improved as particular hazards became clear. A later aside about the service's slow, elaborate approach to new uniform patterns reinforces how institutional continuity shaped naval dress.