When we say uniform, we mean something that looks formal, and smart, but it doesn't have to be an authentic uniform that someone can point at and say "Finnish Army, 1965." It can be a replica, or something made up - as long as it looks like it could be a uniform or formal leather outfit.

You don't have to spend a fortune. Yes, some people aspire to a complete set of Langlitz leathers, but it's not essential for BLUF membership. You can find lots of great gear at affordable prices, including secondhand on eBay. Remember that you can start with a part leather uniform, and replace bits of it gradually.

What's not included

• Motorbike gear
  The only exception to this rule is military or police bike gear, as described above. Sports bike gear is not acceptable.
• Fabric uniforms without breeches
  Some uniforms look good, but they need either leather - try adding a jacket - or breeches. All fabric with no breeches doesn't cut it.
• Fabric breeches that aren't part of a uniform
  Uniform is the key. The country Squire look is not a uniform.
• Nazi, SS and other hate symbols
  None of these symbols are permitted on BLUF, even if you've tried to photoshop them out. Our members come from many countries and faiths.
• T shirts
  There is a little leeway here, but a formal shirt or polo is better, and T shirts with logos and slogans generally aren't included.
• Nudity, bare chests, jockstraps
  Uniforms are the key thing on BLUF. These are not uniforms. Put your trousers on, do up your shirt!
• Chaps, harnesses
  Again, these are not part of a uniform, in our view.
• Skinhead gear, workgear, sports, rubber, denim and other fetishes
  Great if you like these, but they're not part of the BLUF dresscode either.

Common mistakes

These are some of the common mistakes people make with their photos:

• Explicitly prohibited items
  Some items are specifically not allowed on BLUF. They're listed above. Please read the list, and don't just try to photoshop them out.
• Nudity or sexually explicit
  We do not allow nudity or sexually explicity photos on BLUF. It's not a porn site. Try Snapchat.
• Failing to look smart or formal
  The uniform look is key to our dresscode. So shirts should be done up, not open. They should be tucked into trousers, not hanging over them. Boots should be done up.
• Not enough uniform
  You don't have to have a full set of expensive leathers, but you do need more than just a pair of jeans and a shirt with a patch. Add a tie, a sam browne belt and so on.
• Poorly shot photos
  We don't expect photos to be a work of art, but if they're dark, or out of focus, and we can't see what you're wearing, they're not good enough.

If you need high quality photos taken, check our list of fetish friendly photographers.