What to Wear to Church to Look Your Sunday Best
Yes, you can be appropriate and stylish.
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It's Sunday morning and you're wondering what to wear to church. It's tricky territory! Ree Drummond knows it all too well. Back in the spring of 2019, she took her two daughters shopping for Easter dresses—and let's just say things got interesting. "During the course of our mall excursion, I ate a mall cookie, bought some weird stationery items, got a blister, and successfully convinced my daughter that shimmery taffeta and a multi-layer tulle petticoat might be considered a tad over the top for our little small town church," she recalls.
But here's the thing: You don't have to get blisters, endure layers of itchy tulle, or buy weird stationery items to find the perfect church outfit (though you're totally entitled to the mall cookie). When choosing an outfit for attending Sunday Mass, you can find so many spring dresses, conservative blouses, and appropriate accessories online. Ahead, you'll find the best ideas on what's traditionally acceptable and not acceptable, as well as what outfits to try in your style.
These style rules and outfit ideas can apply to general Sunday services and all the special observances during the year. If you're looking for what to wear during Holy Week specifically like Good Friday leading up to Easter, there are plenty of spring church outfit ideas you can simply add to your cart. (Oh, and a lot of these work as bridal shower outfits as well.) Remember, it's about respect for the occasion but other than that, you can have fun, too!
Dress up for every occasion:
Going for a longer length like a midi or maxi dress will ensure that you've got the appropriate amount of coverage. This pretty number from Draper James is nice and flowy to keep you comfy, too.
A Dress Isn't the Only Option
Not feeling like throwing on a dress? No problem. Opt for a smart blouse or top instead, like this ruffle-sleeve beauty. It's great for work, too!
If you do go the blouse route, you're going to want a stylish pair of pants with which to pair it. Skip the jeans and opt for a pair of dress pants instead. This pair features side pockets, a premium fabric, and a just-right fit.
Don't forget to take into account the reason you're headed to church in the first place. If you're on your way to a memorial service, for instance, skip the peppy prints. Headed to a baptism? Great—throw on some cheerful, peppy print, like this gorgeous dress from Hill House Home.
Depending on the occasion, you might be sitting on a hard pew for a very long time—so don't torture yourself with stiff fabrics and tight waistlines! Instead, opt for a semi-fitted, comfy option like this jersey dress. We love all the affordable print options!
You don't have to cover all whole collarbone all the time, but there are some elegant options to make sure you have enough coverage. If you put something on and you wonder if it's cut too low, it probably is. So the best option is to go for a higher neckline like this pretty blouse.
You never know if it's going to be chilly or warm at church—better safe than sorry! Bring a few different layers for on top, or keep yourself really cozy and stylish with a light jacket or blazer.
A wide-brimmed hat sitting in the front pew? Perhaps not. But a cushioned headband in a pretty color is something you can get away with no matter where you're seated during service. Or try a pretty and trendy bow!
Adding a collar is such an easy way to upgrade the formality of an outfit. Here, it adds poise and sophistication to an otherwise down-to-earth ensemble, and the longer sleeves and below-the-knee hem are sure to be appreciated, too.
Whether you just like the layered look or need to cover up a pair of bare shoulders, having several cardigans in your closet is an excellent idea for the frequent (or occasional!) church-goer. You can go for fun colors or grab a basic neutral shade that will go with everything.
Now's the time to show off your favorite cross! The teeny-tiny charm on this delicate necklace is such a special idea (and it doubles as a fabulous Easter or Christmas gift).
Closed-toe shoes are encouraged and a low heel is the best way to go, but there are plenty of fabulous options that fit those parameters—like these leather mid-heels.
You may not be able to wear your favorite sleeveless sundress during the service, but an all-over print like this one is an easy way to add a splash of personality to an otherwise covered-up look.
It'll make such a big difference in how put-together you look—and it's a quick and easy way to turn any outfit into a "church-appropriate" outfit. We love this lightweight, colorful option which you can wear to church, to the store, or, well, anywhere.
There tends to be a lot of fabric involved in modest outfits, so be sure to invest in a few good belts that you can use to "break up" the overall look. It can also be a fun pop print or color to show your personality without being too wild.
Who says "modest" has to translate to "boring"? This dress, for instance, features a flowing silhouette, delicate pintucks, and delightful bright green color—but it's entirely appropriate for church, too. Win-win!
AnnMarie Mattila is the Senior Editor for The Pioneer Woman, covering a wide range of topics from food and cooking to home, beauty, style, and more.
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