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What to Wear to Church

Much as I love my sky-high heels and faded jeans, I don’t wear them to church. It just doesn’t feel right. To be more clear, in the “what to wear to church” debate, I’m on the side of dressing up for your time of worship.

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Church-appropriate styles are subtle, tidy, and conservative. That’s not to say they’re frumpy or stuffy — but that is to say your club outfit doesn’t work on Sunday mornings and your gym outfit doesn’t either. As the old phrase goes, there’s a time and a place for everything. Specifically, church isn’t the place for minis, tanks, sweats, shorts, halters, and cleavage. And sadly, there’s just no such thing as the perfect “church to beach” outfit.

You can, however, be stylish and pretty without maintaining a church-only wardrobe. Here’s how.

4 church outfit ideas

For those who are short on time, the table below summarizes our best church outfit ideas and provides links for shopping!

RankOutfit FormulaWhere to Shop
1Summer dress and cardiganAmazon for cardis
SHEIN for summer dresses
2Long-sleeved midi dress Amazon
3Sweater and full skirt Evaless for skirts
Amazon for sweaters
4Blouse and tasteful crop pants Macy’s for blouses
JC Penney for pants

1. Summer dress + cardigan

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Surely you have a summer dress in the closet that’s at least knee length. Even if that dress has spaghetti straps and a low-cut neckline, you can still wear it to church. Just add a fitted cardigan and button it all the way up. The cardigan becomes the conservative top to your otherwise summery dress. Add a kitten heel and you’re ready to go.

2. Long-sleeved midi dress

A long-sleeved midi dress is a must-have for fall and for church. Try an empire waist or belted style to create some shape without a body-hugging fit.

3. Sweater + full skirt

Try a light sweater paired with a full or A-line skirt for a super sweet and slightly retro ensemble. You could even pull your hair back into a neat ponytail and add a little bow for fun. No giving up on style here.

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4. Blouse + tasteful crop pant or trousers

A blouse tucked in to a conservative pant is an easy outfit that could be worn for other occasions as well. Lunch with your boss? Yep, that works. Networking after work? Of course.

Can you wear jeans to church?

The answer is yes, you can wear jeans to church. Stay in the realm of straight-cut, mid- or high-rise, dark-wash denim. Then pretty them up with two layers on top and a nice pair of shoes. Try a shell top along with a dainty cardigan, along with simple ankle boots.

What shoes should you wear to church?

Low-heeled pumps with a covered toe are always a great choice for church. A tidy ballet flat works, too. A simple ankle boot is appropriate if you’re wearing pants. Stay away from super-casual sandals, worn sneakers, and flip flops.

Dos and don’ts of what to wear to church

  • Do choose garments that cover your shoulders.
  • Do wear skirts that are knee-length or longer.
  • Do add layers, such as a blazer, to more revealing tops and dresses.
  • Do tuck in your top and wear a belt if your bottoms have belt loops.
  • Do wear feminine patterns like florals.
  • Do be cautious about pencil skirts. A looser style might work, but a body-hugging skirt will not.
  • Don’t wear animal prints.
  • Don’t wear tight pants or leggings.
  • Don’t overdo the accessories. A pair of stud earrings is all you need.
  • Don’t wear heels taller than 3 inches.
  • Don’t wear anything sheer.