How to Dress Modestly for a Mormon Church (for Females)

Last Updated: October 21, 2021

Modesty and grace in dressing are expected of Mormon women when attending church and related Mormon functions. It is very easy to achieve modesty and still remain fashionable. If you already have a wardrobe, you can probably recombine it and end up with something appropriate. You will be wearing a skirt and a matching shirt, or a dress, with appropriate shoes.

Steps

1
Know what to avoid.
- Skirts or dresses that are too short. Knee length skirts or dresses are recommended.
- Clothing that is too tight. Clothes don't have to be baggy or uncomfortable to be "modest", but they shouldn't cling to your body. It can be fitted but if the cloth doesn't have enough stretch for you to put your hand under it, it's a bit too tight.
- Shirts that are see-through or very low cut.
- Sleeveless shirts. Capped sleeves are okay, but avoid halter tops or shirts with straps.
- You should avoid flip-flops, beach-styled shoes, running shoes, or sneakers. Dressy sandals are fine.
2
Come as you are! If you don't have the exact right clothing, come anyway!
- The Sabbath is a special day and by coming to church you are visiting the Lord's house, so put your best foot forward and make sure that what you are wearing is neat and clean and the most pleasing of what you have.
- Some Mormon gatherings are formal even if it is not on Sunday so check before you decide what to wear.
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3
Express your individuality with your style. As long as you dress modestly, anything else is basically up to you. Be yourself.

Community Q&A

Question

May I wear a short-sleeved knit dress in black, provided it covers to the knee, with open-toed black heels?

Community Answer

Yes, that would be acceptable. You may wear any dress shoes, and any dress with sleeves (provided it reaches the knees).
Question

If I am attending a memorial service at an LDS church, can I dress any way I would like?

Community Answer

It's best to dress up, if only for respect for the person who has passed on, but you don't necessarily have to adhere to strict Mormon dress codes. However, most of the things that would be inappropriate in an LDS church would also be inappropriate at a funeral, so you shouldn't have a problem finding something that won't conflict.
Question

Do I have to dress modestly at school also?

Community Answer

Yes, you should always strive to live by the church standards. Think about if Jesus were to walk in the room.

Warnings

We are all human; everyone makes mistakes. If you make a fashion mistake put it behind you and go on. It is important that you present yourself as the wonderful, modest girl that the creator made you to be.

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