watching redcoats march, either in movies or even on parade for tourists in england, makes me wonder why they dressed up so much when death was likely in a napoleonic-like battle with lines of infantry shooting volleys at each other? why all the fancy ribbons and buttons?
Identification and morale, as the dimensions of combat in the days of musketry aren't quite the same as the ones of today. And sometimes, just outright fashion. u/StoryWonker and u/dandan_noodles explain further in this thread. As always, should anyone have more insight to contribute, further posts are always welcome!