Many Christians have followed certain dress codes during attendance at church. Customs have varied over time and between different Christian denominations.
Clothing worn during religious services
In some Christian communities, the term "Sunday best" refers to the tradition of saving one's finest clothing for Sunday services. In some communities, churches served as the main social center for local residents. As such, dressing in fine clothing for religious services was often dictated by a need to project status and influence among peers.[1] Many modern Christians reject this practice and instead encourage modest, respectful dress not only for Sunday worship, but in everyday life.[2]
Some Christian holy days incorporate traditional clothing, such as the Easter bonnet. Christians' clothing has, however, evolved over time.
In recent decades, some churches have encouraged a more informal dress code. Among the first to adopt this policy were the Calvary Chapel associated churches.[3] Many clergy members, especially those in denominations and religious groups formed in the 20th century, have abandoned the traditional robes and vestments in favor of business casual clothing. This change was made to close the perceived gap between the clergy and laypersons. Some even wear jeans and other everyday casual wear if the members have chosen to dress casual as well. Though a small minority, Christian naturists take this one step further, and wear no clothing at all, which they see as "God's design".
Some Christian traditions encourage or require adherents to don clothing of religious significance during church services, such as a headcovering. Headcoverings are often required of women attending services in many modern Anabaptist sects and some Eastern Orthodox communities.[4] Some Catholic and non-denominational Christian women also choose to cover their heads for worship, a practice enjoined by Paul in the Bible (1 Corinthians 11).[5][6]
See also
- Religious clothing – including further information on Christian religious clothing
References
- ^ "The Origin of Dressing Up for Church". 8 December 2014.
- ^ "What Should We Wear to Worship?", Radically Christian, 27 May 2015.
- ^ "Calvary Chapel Core Convictions: Informal/ Relaxed Style". Archived from the original on 2016-03-08. Retrieved 2016-03-08.
- ^ "Uncovering the Head Covering Debate". Her.meneutics. Retrieved 2016-03-08.
- ^ Bailey, Mark (2003). Nelson's New Testament Survey: Discovering the Essence, Background & Meaning About Every New Testament Book. Thomas Nelson Inc. ISBN 9781418540876.
- ^ Witness Lee (August 1990). Life-Study of 1 Corinthians: Messages 48-69, 3. pp. 470–471. ISBN 9780870831423.
External links
- "A Business of the Cloth Finds a Surge in Demand" by Debra Nussbaum, "The New York Times", January 28, 1996, retrieved September 6, 2009.
- Contemporary Christian Clothing Brands
- "What Would Jesus Sell?" by Stephanie Simon, "The Los Angeles Times", July 21, 2006, retrieved January 4, 2010.