As a sister in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, you are an ambassador for the Lord, and you may be one of the first people to cross someone’s path who hasn’t heard our message. A first impression is important, which is why sisters are expected to dress professionally and in a manner that is consistent with your calling and identifies you as an LDS missionary.
When you become a sister on behalf of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, you join the ranks of one of the most recognizable religious organizations. When people see you walking along the street, they will immediately be able to identify you as a missionary. This means that everything you do, how you carry yourself, and what you wear, are very important not just for you, but also for The Church as you represent it.
General Standards for Sisters
There are a few general expectations for how sisters groom and dress. These can be changed by mission presidents depending on circumstances, but the following are usually expected of you.
Keep Your Appearance and Presence Neat and Conservative
- Ensure that your clothes are always clean, ironed, and in top shape (See our tips for caring for your missionary clothing)
- Bathe daily, use deodorant, brush your teeth, and make sure your hair is well kept
- If you use perfume or lotion, make sure it is light and not overpowering or distracting
- Maintain your hair in a natural, conservative, professional style that is easy to manage and doesn’t draw attention
- Headbands and other hair accessories should be simple and conservative
- No tattoos, nose rings, or other body piercings
- You are not required to wear makeup, but that does tend to help you look your best and should be worn conservatively
- Nail polish shouldn’t be distracting, but rather contribute to your professional-looking attire
Strive for Modesty
There is a high standard of modesty that is expected of you, and you’re asked to wear clothing that is:
- Not too tight or too loose
- Not revealing in any way (no transparent fabrics, low shirts, or high skirts)
- Not drawing attention to your body
- Professional, feminine, and dignified
Wear Business-Like Clothing
What you pack for your upcoming mission can look slightly different depending on what kind of a climate you are being sent to, but this will usually include:
- Business-style blouses and tops (with climate-appropriate fabric) in conservative colors and patterns
- Conservatively-colored dress pants/slacks and skirts that can cover your knees when standing or sitting
- Dress shoes that are comfortable, durable, and breathable
- Underclothes that are white or cream-colored, durable, comfortable, and modest
- Temple garments
- Nylons or tights (not required, but if worn, they should not attract attention)
- Handbags, jewelry, belts, and other such accessories (Minimal and simple)
Here are a few resources you're likely to find helpful:
If you are in a hot climate or cold climate, you may see variations such as:
- Closed-toe and Closed-heel sandals
- Wide-brimmed hats (as needed for sunny conditions)
- Rain or Winter Boots
- Leggings or spandex (to be worn under long skirts to increase warmth)
- Sweaters
- Coats
- Thermal underclothing
- Gloves, scarves, and hats (as needed)
When you receive your call packet, you will receive direction from your mission president in the section called “Items Specific to Your Mission”. This can help you determine your outfit needs.
All outfit items should be high-quality, durable, and easy to care for, given the nature of missions. So as you shop for your mission outfits, you’ll want to keep an eye out for those qualities.
Many activities will require you to dress in your “Sunday-best” attire, but you will also be primarily wearing simple, professional attire during missionary activities. Your mission president can help you identify what you should be wearing and when.
A Sisters Clothing and Accessories List
Here is an overview of items you will likely need (this list does not include climate-dependent items) and roughly how many of each:
- 12 Blouses (of varying sleeve lengths)
- 12 Shirts (for sleepwear, activewear, and P- Days)
- 7 T-shirts *6 different types of sock pairs
- 2 Formal Dresses
- 4 Casual Dresses
- 8 Skirts (we suggest a-line instead of pencil skirts)
- A 3-in-1 Insulated, Hooded Jacket
- A Parka
- 2 Coats (long winter, puffer, duffle, or wool)
- Gloves, scarves, ear-muffs, and beanies
- Activewear woven jacket
- Suit jacket
- 3 Cardigans
- 4 Nice Sweaters
- A Blazer
- A Windbreaker
- A Raincoat
- 3 Pajama Sets
- A Robe
- 4 Sweatpants or joggers
- 4 Sweatshirts/pullovers
- 10 Temple garments
- 10 pairs of underwear
- 6 bras
- 3 slips
- 2 pairs of thermal underwear
- 5 pairs of leggings
- 2 pairs of Jeans (for P-day)
- 3 pairs of walking shoes
- 2 pairs of dress shoes
- 1 pair of running shoes
- 1 pair of winter boots
- 1 pair of shower shoes/flip flops
- 1 Everyday bag
- 1 Eco bag (for P-Day)
- Toiletries
- Self-defense tools (Whistle, pepper spray, small flashlight, etc)
- Umbrella