New Army rules allow expanded array of female hairstyles, plus nail polish

Leaders of the United States armed forces announced Tuesday that female soldiers will now be able to sport ponytails and nail polish, a notable loosening of the institution's heavy restrictions on personal styling. 

Male soldiers will still be required to shave. But female soldiers will now be allowed to sport a greater array of earrings, wear their hair with highlights in it, and showcase hairstyles that are more natural than a tight bun, particularly for hair that is worn in braids, twists, and cornrows. Hair dye is allowed for both men and women, but restricted to "natural" shades. 

"These aren't about male and female," said Sgt. Maj. Michael Grinston. "This is about an Army standard and how we move forward with the Army, and being a more diverse, inclusive team." 

The new requirements, which will take effect in late February, are part of a broader initiative by the Defense Department to expand diversity within the military.

Army Sgt. Maj. Brian Sanders said Tuesday that the new grooming regulations took into account a variety of factors including cultural, health and safety issues.

"At the end of the day, our women are mothers, they're spouses, they're sisters, they definitely want to be able to maintain their identity, and that's what we want to get after," he said.

Women will also be allowed to wear their nail polish color of choice, barring "extreme" shades that include purple, blue, black, and "fire engine" red.