The 1812 regulation U.S. Army uniform was similar in style to the British uniform. It consisted of a tall felt shako cap decorated with cords, tassels, and a regimental plate; a dark blue short coat with red cuffs and collar; and grey trousers. The coat was decorated with white worsted tape on the chest, cuffs, and collar.

Officers wore similar coats - with scarlet sashes and epaulettes to denote rank - and blue trousers. In the US Army, officers commonly made minor changes to the uniform according to their own tastes and they often used more elaborate swords and cap plates than those issued.

In 1813, a simpler, more practical uniform was introduced because clothing materials were becoming increasingly difficult to obtain. The American textile industry was still in its infancy and imports were being blocked by the British. The new design was a plain blue coat, white belts, white vests, and white overalls with black gaiters. The shako cap was also redesigned along the lines of the British "Belgic" leather shako. Even this new uniform was difficult to get ahold of, however, so officers had to make do with whatever was available.

Soldiers stationed south of the Potomac River were issued a special summer white linen short coat with long sleeves and no tails. Some soldiers serving near the Canadian border were also issued this coat because of the urgent need for new uniforms. The light linen jacket wasn't of much use during a cold New England winter. American soldiers were also issued a wooden water canteen, a linen haversack for rations, and a blue knapsack to hold a blanket and extra clothing. American militia dress varied tremendously. Volunteer companies generally designed their own uniforms. For example, the mounted Tennessee men wore woolen hunting shirts and leather hats and carried tomahawks and hunting knives. A Maryland regiment wore a winter cloth uniform and a thick leather helmet covered with feathers.