PROVIDENCE, R.I. >> The Navy says it will now allow servicewomen to sport ponytails and other longer hairstyles, reversing a policy that long forbade them from letting their hair down.

Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John Richardson says it makes the Navy more inclusive.

Many black women had asked for changes to the female grooming standards. A female sailor announced the new policy during a Facebook Live event Tuesday with Richardson.

Lock hairstyles, or ropelike strands, are also now allowed. Wider hair buns too. And women can wear ponytails while in uniform.

At the U.S. Naval War College in Rhode Island Wednesday, women said they’re excited to switch from buns, which don’t fit well under helmets.

Lt. Cmdr. Jess Cameron says it seems like a small thing, but it sends a larger message.