velvet collar and cuffs

[Colonel Buckshot]

I saw several sutlers offer velvet on all uniforms colonel and below but the regulations say only brig. general and above could have velvet collar and cuffs.  I also know several officers in volunteer units did not always follow regulations as far as uniforms.  does anyone know of any officers besides generals that wore velvet or is it inaccurate on the sutlers part.   

[St. George]

Some of the Volunteer units' Officers uniforms did have a certain amount of sartorial difference 'before the War' - but once they came on to active service, their uniforms rapidly became equal to that of their Regular Army counterpart.

Sutlers stock what they think will sell - and some have been known to verbally 'embroider' the uniqueness of their wares.

For an accurate Impression - assuming you're not interested in replicating an outfit from the 'John Ford Reference Library' - stick to the applicable Regulations.

In the 'back pages' on this Forum, and on that of the 'Historical Society Forum' - you'll find lists of reputable sutlers and dealers in militaria, as recommended by folks who aren't in the business of selling, but are interested in accuracy and quality workmanship.

Vaya,

Scouts Out!