In the early years of the Civil War, many American military fashions were influenced by those of the French Army, and none more so than those regiments uniformed as the French Zouaves of North Africa, a style greatly admired by the populace.

In the spring of 1863 it was realised that the colourful zouaves of the Volunteer Brigade, Regular Division of the 5th Corps would cease with the expiration of the enlistment period of the majority of the 5th New York Volunteers (Duryea’s Zouaves).

To forestall this, actions were taken to manufacture zouave uniforms for the 146th New York Volunteers which the regiment received on 3rd June 1863. These new uniforms were made distinct by tunics and pantaloons of the pale blue with yellow braiding. From Gettysburg to Appomattox the 146th New York campaigned in this uniform.