Latter-day Saint (LDS) modesty standards, particularly regarding dress and appearance, are an important aspect of cultural and religious life for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (commonly referred to as the Mormon church). These standards are taught to both men and women, though they are most commonly discussed in relation to women’s attire. Modesty is seen as a reflection of one’s respect for the body, reverence for God, and an expression of humility and dignity. The principles of modesty are rooted in scripture, church teachings, and the guidance of modern-day prophets and leaders. This essay will explore the LDS teachings on modesty in dress, with a focus on church attendance and other religious settings.
The Foundation of Modesty in LDS Belief
The LDS Church teaches that the body is a sacred gift from God. The body, according to the doctrine of the Church, is created in God’s image and is to be treated with respect and dignity. As stated in the Book of Mormon, a central text in LDS belief, individuals are to “glorify God in their bodies” (1 Corinthians 6:20). Modesty is viewed as an essential part of this reverence toward one’s body. For Latter-day Saints, modesty is not just about the physical act of covering the body, but about the way one expresses self-respect and maintains a relationship with God.
Guidelines for Modesty in Church and Other Settings
In terms of dress, LDS modesty standards are often most visible in church settings. The expectation is that members wear clothing that is both respectful and appropriate for worship, reflecting the reverence they feel in God’s house. This includes the requirement for women to wear dresses or skirts that cover the knee when sitting or standing. Sleeveless tops and short skirts or dresses are discouraged in these settings, as they are believed to detract from the sacredness of the environment.
For men, modesty standards in the church typically involve wearing a suit and tie or other formal attire, though this can vary depending on the specific circumstances (e.g., less formal settings or specific cultural norms). While men’s attire does not face as many specific restrictions as women’s, the general principle of avoiding clothing that is immodest or inappropriate applies equally to both genders.
The church emphasizes that modesty is not only about how one dresses but also about how one behaves and interacts with others. Church leaders frequently counsel members to avoid drawing attention to themselves in ways that might be seen as prideful or inappropriate. This is consistent with the principle that modesty involves both outward appearance and inner humility. The goal is for members to reflect their love for God through both their actions and their outward presentation.
The Influence of Modern Prophets
Church leaders, both past and present, have emphasized the importance of modesty for members of the LDS Church. In recent decades, leaders have repeatedly addressed the subject in general conference talks and through written guidelines. One of the most famous teachings on modesty came from President Gordon B. Hinckley, who in a 2005 talk encouraged members to “dress modestly and decently” while maintaining a standard that is “appropriate for the sacredness of the Lord’s house.” He also suggested that modesty is a form of personal dignity and that how one presents oneself to the world should reflect their values and self-respect.
More recently, in 2020, the church’s official website published updated guidelines that reaffirmed the importance of modesty for both men and women. The guidelines emphasized the importance of wearing clothing that is not overly tight or revealing, and they called for respect for the body as a temple of God. In this same update, the church included counsel about the use of makeup, jewelry, and other adornments, with the message that these should be used in moderation and in ways that enhance rather than detract from a person’s overall sense of modesty.
Cultural and Social Impacts
While modesty standards in the LDS Church are deeply rooted in religious doctrine, they also reflect broader cultural norms and expectations within the Church community. In many ways, modesty standards function as a form of social cohesion, providing a common framework for how members of the church interact with one another and how they present themselves in public and private settings.
There is also the issue of evolving trends in fashion and societal attitudes toward modesty. As the world becomes increasingly casual, with clothing trends favoring revealing or more form-fitting styles, members of the LDS Church may face challenges in maintaining these standards. However, Church leaders continue to emphasize that modesty is not about following trends but about maintaining a focus on spiritual values.
The standards can also have a significant impact on how young people, especially women, feel about their bodies and self-image. There are varying perspectives within the Church on whether these standards are empowering or restrictive. Some members see the emphasis on modesty as a way to promote self-respect, while others feel that it can create undue pressure to conform to an idealized standard.
Modesty in dress within the LDS Church is more than just a set of external rules—it is a reflection of deeper spiritual principles about reverence, respect, and humility. The Church teaches that modesty is an important expression of one’s relationship with God and a sign of respect for the body. While the specifics of dress codes may vary by culture and personal interpretation, the fundamental principle remains the same: members are encouraged to dress in ways that reflect their inner values and commitment to God’s teachings.
Modesty is a core value for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), especially when it comes to clothing. Modesty in dress reflects personal dignity, respect for one’s body as a temple, and a desire to follow God’s commandments. For many Latter-day Saints, this means wearing clothing that is both comfortable and respectful, especially during the warmer spring and summer months. Below are several modest outfit ideas tailored specifically to LDS standards for modesty, focusing on spring and summer styles that are both stylish and appropriate for church, family gatherings, and other casual settings.
Modest Maxi Dresses
Maxi dresses are a popular choice for modest dressing because they offer full coverage without sacrificing style. These dresses typically fall to the ankles or floor, providing plenty of modest coverage while still being light and breathable for warmer weather.
Style Tip: Look for dresses with sleeves (short or three-quarter length) or add a light cardigan or bolero for additional coverage. Dresses should ideally cover the knee when sitting or standing.
Example Look: A floral-print, short-sleeve maxi dress paired with a lightweight cardigan. This outfit is perfect for church or a family gathering, keeping you comfortable while adhering to modesty guidelines.
A-Line or Midi Skirts with Modest Tops
A-line skirts are a versatile, flattering option that falls around the knee or slightly below. Paired with a modest top, this outfit can be both stylish and comfortable during the summer months.
Style Tip: Midi skirts (those that fall mid-calf) can also be a good choice, as they offer more coverage without feeling overly hot. Choose tops that are loose but not too baggy, with sleeves (whether short, cap, or three-quarter) to keep your shoulders covered.
Example Look: A high-waisted A-line skirt with a modest, short-sleeve blouse. Add a cardigan or lightweight jacket if needed for extra coverage, and pair with sandals or flats for a chic, modest look.
Modest Jumpsuits
Jumpsuits can be an excellent choice for modest Latter-day Saint outfits as long as they are designed with modesty in mind. Look for jumpsuits that have sleeves and are not too tight. Opt for one-piece designs that fall to the knee or below, providing plenty of coverage and comfort.
Style Tip: Choose a jumpsuit with a defined waist or tie belt for a flattering fit. A soft, breathable fabric like cotton or linen is ideal for warmer months, as it keeps you cool while maintaining modesty.
Example Look: A short-sleeve, knee-length jumpsuit with a flowy bottom. Pair with a light cardigan or bolero for added coverage and some cute wedges or sandals.
Tunic Tops with Modest Pants or Leggings
A tunic top is a great piece for modest fashion because it covers the hips and can be paired with leggings or loose-fitting pants for full coverage. Tunics are available in various lengths, but for modesty’s sake, choose one that is long enough to cover the hips when you bend or sit.
Style Tip: Pair tunics with leggings that are opaque and reach the ankles. Avoid tight or form-fitting leggings, opting instead for more loose-fitting, comfortable options.
Example Look: A soft, long-sleeve tunic with a floral print paired with black leggings and ballet flats or sandals. This look works for casual days or a church service and keeps you both cool and modest.
Modest Shirt Dresses
Shirt dresses are a classic, modest option that can be very flattering when styled appropriately. A knee-length or midi-length shirt dress can provide ample coverage and be just as stylish as more casual dresses. Shirt dresses can easily be dressed up or down, making them perfect for both church and informal gatherings.
Style Tip: Ensure the shirt dress has sleeves and is long enough to provide coverage when seated. You can add a belt to accentuate the waist or layer with a cardigan for more modest coverage.
Example Look: A button-down shirt dress with a floral or plaid print, paired with a lightweight cardigan and sandals or low heels. This is a classic, modest summer outfit that will keep you comfortable and respectful while still on trend.
Maxi Skirts with Modest Tops
Maxi skirts are an easy and comfortable option for those who prefer skirts over dresses. When paired with a modest top, a maxi skirt creates an outfit that is both stylish and respectful. These skirts provide full coverage, making them ideal for church services or other religious activities.
Style Tip: Look for maxi skirts made of lightweight fabric such as cotton or linen for comfort in hot weather. Pair them with a short-sleeve blouse or a three-quarter sleeve top for added modesty.
Example Look: A high-waisted, flowing maxi skirt paired with a tucked-in, short-sleeve blouse. You can add a lightweight cardigan for extra coverage, and finish with a cute pair of sandals or flats.
Lightweight Cardigans for Layering
For spring and summer, layering with lightweight cardigans or sweaters can add to your modest outfit while helping you stay comfortable when temperatures fluctuate.
Style Tip: Opt for lightweight fabrics like cotton or knit, and avoid heavy, warm cardigans. Cardigans can be worn over dresses or blouses and add a bit of extra coverage, especially when attending church or religious events.
Example Look: A sleeveless, knee-length dress paired with a light cardigan. This look is perfect for spring when the weather is warm, but you might want an extra layer for church or cooler evenings.
Modest Sleeveless Dresses with Cardigans or Shrugs
Though many Latter-day Saints prefer dresses with sleeves, modest sleeveless dresses can still be worn as long as they provide full coverage and are paired with a modest cardigan, shrug, or jacket for additional coverage.
Style Tip: Choose sleeveless dresses that are knee-length or longer. Always pair them with a cardigan or shrug to ensure your shoulders are covered.
Example Look: A modest sleeveless dress with a floral print, paired with a lightweight cardigan. You can also add a belt to accentuate your waist and sandals for a comfortable, stylish summer look.
Short-Sleeve Dresses with Simple Details
For those who prefer simple but elegant outfits, a modest short-sleeve dress can be an excellent option for spring and summer. Look for dresses with more coverage (like those with a higher neckline or longer sleeves) that allow you to feel both comfortable and confident.
Style Tip: Simple dresses with structured details, such as pleats, lace, or embroidery, can give a sense of elegance without compromising modesty.
Example Look: A knee-length, short-sleeve dress with subtle lace detailing at the hem, paired with flat sandals or wedges. Add a simple, elegant necklace or bracelet to complete the look.
Breathable Fabrics for Comfort
For all modest LDS summer outfits, selecting breathable fabrics is key to staying cool while respecting the modesty guidelines. Cotton, linen, jersey, and rayon are excellent choices for modest dresses, skirts, and tops during the warmer months.
Style Tip: Keep in mind that certain fabrics, like linen and jersey, are breathable and offer a comfortable, relaxed fit, ideal for hot weather. Avoid thin fabrics that are too see-through and always consider wearing slips or undergarments for added coverage if needed.
Example Look: A cotton short-sleeve dress with a simple pattern, paired with a lightweight cardigan and sandals. This outfit offers a modest, easy-going option for spring or summer.
Modesty is an important aspect of Latter-day Saint culture, and there are many ways to dress stylishly and modestly for spring and summer. By choosing breathable fabrics, ensuring full coverage, and incorporating layers like cardigans or light jackets, LDS members can maintain their commitment to modesty while staying comfortable in the warmer months. Whether opting for dresses, skirts, or pants, modesty can always be paired with style to create outfits that are both fashionable and reflective of one’s faith and values.