When you receive your mission call, you will be sent a booklet that contains information specific to your area. Inside will be a picture of your mission president and his wife, general things you should know about your field of labor, and a list of items you should prepare to bring. Possibly the most studied part of this booklet is the list of clothing that should be brought.
Missionaries are asked to dress conservatively, in Sunday-type dress most of the time with the exception of their once-weekly preparation day (known as P-Day) when they may dress more casually as they do their laundry and weekly chores. As representatives of Christ, they should prepare to look their best at all times.
Men are encouraged to wear suits and white shirts, in ties that coordinate and are fashionable but aren’t garish. That seems simple enough, but the sister missionaries don’t have it quite so easy. They are asked to wear clothing that may be a bit hard to come by in today’s shopping centers.
Skirts, dresses and jumpers should come to mid-calf, and any slits in these items shouldn’t extend higher than the knee. Solid colors in neutral tones are recommended for ability in mix and match with other items. Blouses have modest necklines and adequate length in the sleeve. Shoes are comfortable and nice-looking without being trendy, in neutral shades.
Looking at the recommended clothing, you might think that the sister missionaries are being asked to dress like nuns, but this isn’t the case. There’s a lot of variety in color, cut, and fabric. Simple clothing is requested so that the message will shine through and not be obscured by distracting clothing. It’s also a uniform of sorts and helps keep the missionary in the proper mindset at all times.
Your booklet will also tell you what temperatures to plan for. Pay special attention to that section – if it says to bring a warm coat, bring a warm coat. The Church knows you can only take a certain number of things with you, and they won’t tell you to bring things you won’t find absolutely necessary.
Related Blogs: