Even on sale that's going to run you over a $200 budget, easily. My advice is to figure out (roughly) your size, and shop for it by brand on ebay or at the local thrifts. You'll be amazed at what's out there if you're persistent. Once you have it, get it tailored.
Dressing for church advice.
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Even on sale that's going to run you over a $200 budget, easily. My advice is to figure out (roughly) your size, and shop for it by brand on ebay or at the local thrifts. You'll be amazed at what's out there if you're persistent. Once you have it, get it tailored.
But the thing I like about Dockers is the big pockets. I can carry all sorts of stuff: firearms, Swiss Army knives, keys, money, flash drives, portable soldering irons, etc. (Or, even a small bible).
Some slacks' pockets these days are hardly big enough for my hand to get in.
I like navy, but for some reason I get them dirtier than khaki. Around here the dust is a perfect match for my khaki Dockers (or my dress Carhartts).
I don't want to sound too English - but do you need to take a gun to Church?
I would recommend charity shops (probably the same as thrift shops) for ties. You might be able to pick up a nice jacket. If you joined the armed forces you could wear your uniform anywhere, with pride.
I think that a highly polished pair of shoes lets you get away with a lot.
Tim
Puritan Board Graduate
The reason is that jeans were invented as durable work pants, useful for people such as cowboys and factory workers. If one keeps this in mind when considering appropriate church attire, it would seem most strange for someone to wear jeans to church.
Rich Koster
Puritan Board Post-Graduate
JS116
Puritan Board Freshman
I wear jeans to church all the time,Jeans and a polo shirt are my regular attire.I used to dress up for church but I see no biblical evidence telling me to dress up and my church doesn't stress it either.Am I wrong?
As for the OP jcpenny seems reasonable for the prices and qaulity,always remember when shopping for clothes just because the prices high are doesn't mean the quality is too.
Skyler
Puritan Board Graduate
I hit up G & W Fashions with regularity.
I actually picked up a nice suitcoat and a good Clipper Mist trench coat there just the other day. You never know what you'll find, and usually I don't find anything I want, but then sometimes I do. =)
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And, personally, I think of it as dressing up to come before royalty. Not a very American sentiment, perhaps, but my English blood runs strong in my veins.
I actually picked up a nice suitcoat and a good Clipper Mist trench coat there just the other day. You never know what you'll find, and usually I don't find anything I want, but then sometimes I do. =)
---------- Post added at 02:51 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:50 PM ----------
And, personally, I think of it as dressing up to come before royalty. Not a very American sentiment, perhaps, but my English blood runs strong in my veins.
Scott1
Puritanboard Commissioner
Our illustrations here are anecdotal, but I have seen good quality suits (coat and pants) retail at $400 on sale for $200.
Buy a good suit, that's more important even than getting it on sale.
Some clothiers will hem the pants waste, cuff, etc. included in the price. There have been offers of free lifetime alterations.
The point being stewardship, which is in line with this topic.
Like any major investment, this one is worth saving, planning and preparing for- getting good value for money, not necessarily the exigencies of circumstances dictating only the cheapest price.
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Shawn,
We get into the realm of taste and preferences here, admittedly. Strictly speaking, one can worship God in casual clothing.
But like most things, we need to think more deeply and carefully.
One of the things people won't tell you directly often is that their impression of you is influenced by how you dress. Some will judge your seriousness, respect by how you dress.
Books like "Dress for Success," and classes about that are there for a reason.
One biblical principle is that corporate worship is not focused on us. By derivation, we might ask- does the way I dress foster an atmosphere of holiness, or does it distract. Does it call undue attention to self?
This touches on biblical concepts like modesty, not causing a brother to stumble, even things like good hygiene that affect personal health, attitude and that of others.
FedByRavens
Puritan Board Freshman
I acctually feel convicted when i try to dress formally for church. I've seen so many people get legalistic, and even prideful with it. I try to picture how Jesus and the apostles dressed when they congregated, and though there isn't much scriptural evidence either way, I believe it's safe to say that they dressed as the common folk. Dressing casual is not only comfortable, but it takes all of the focus off of us, and keeps us humble.
I see Jesus rebuking the Pharrisees for dressing too formal(in what their society considered formal), but I never see a rebuke to anyone for dressing too casual. Matthew 23:5" But they do all their deeds to be noticed by men; for they broaden their phylacteries and lengthen the tassels of their garments." Matthew 12: 38 In His teaching He was saying: "Beware of the scribes who like to walk around in long robes, and like respectful greetings in the market places,
However, there definitely are clothes that would be innapropriate, such as tank tops, flip flops etc.
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Scott1
Puritanboard Commissioner
Good points, and acknowledgment of what we don't know.
We might also consider that modesty is a topic taught, a principle taught that obviously had implications for the way one dressed when the church came together.
And one other point, which is line with what you say, but from a different angle-
the common way of dressing will vary.
If we dress outside of that way, we do call attention to self.
So, in Hawaii, they might dress one way.
But it's also possible that if the convention is "Sunday best," suit coats for men and one does not dress that way, they are also calling attention to themselves. The common folk may dress up on Sunday. (Anecdotal only, it is remarkable how often I have seen this phenomenon in rural country churches, where the people have modest means- and also in inner city churches.) The common folk are dressing up on Sunday, prepare for it, and treasure the specialness of it.
And people who are genuinely seeking to live holy, submitted lives, reflecting on scriptural principles might come to the conclusion you mention, dressing casual keeps us most humble.
It would be a blessing to have that attitude manifest broadly in the Body of Christ in this generation.
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We would not want a casualness toward dress to lead to an atmosphere of casualness toward the Word of God, the holiness of God, the authority of His church, respect of His Body, etc.
Rich Koster
Puritan Board Post-Graduate
Let's remember what James 2 says. If we discriminate because of attire, it is referred to as becoming "judges of evil thoughts" (KJV) or "judges with evil motives" (NAS). I'm hearing a lot of opinions in this thread, but not much chapter and verse.
Skyler
Puritan Board Graduate
I don't hold anyone to my opinion, so it doesn't really make a difference to me. I just offer it for consideration.
For what it's worth, I think I waited three weeks after buying it to wear my first suit coat to church. I wanted to make sure my motives were pure - that I was dressing up for God, not for everyone else at church.
For what it's worth, I think I waited three weeks after buying it to wear my first suit coat to church. I wanted to make sure my motives were pure - that I was dressing up for God, not for everyone else at church.
jrdnoland
Puritan Board Freshman
Personally, I always dress my best when in the Sunday service and a little less formally at a bible study. If in our hearts we are worshipping in spirit and truth and loving God with all He has given us; then what we wear is secondary.
I found this article that is interesting on this topic:
It is good for us to ponder why we wear what we do. Genesis 35:1-3 may shed some light on the subject. "Then God said to Jacob, 'Go up to Bethel and settle there. Build an altar there to honor Me. That's where I appeared to you when you were running away from your brother Esau.' So Jacob spoke to his family and to everyone who was with him. He said, 'Get rid of the strange gods you have with you. Make yourselves pure, and change your clothes. Come, let's go up to Bethel. There I'll build an altar to honor God. He answered me when I was in trouble. He's been with me everywhere I've gone.'"
It is possible that as Jacob began this faith-journey to Bethel with God, he recognized how much God had done for him, and how much he needed God! His response was to take everyone with him on this faith-journey, so they could experience God for themselves. "Get rid of the strange gods you have with you. Make yourselves pure" implies the need to be united in "coming clean" before God. "For all have sinned..." (Romans 3:23). Many then had "household idols" with them that they depended on, as well as God. They did not trust God alone. "Change your clothes" implies a change of heart toward sin. It was to be a reflection of what had taken place on the "inside."
We would all benefit from a "spiritual bath" to confess and get rid of sin before we go to church. This is making ourselves pure. For some people, clean is their "best." For others, their heart tells them that wearing their best is showing God His value to them. For still others, there needs to be a caution that their best isn't merely showing off.
It is always the heart God is looking at, rather than the exterior. However, what we wear to worship our holy, pure God may be an indication of where our hearts are. If you have never considered it before, ask yourself, "Does it matter to me how I look when I am going to worship the King of Kings and Lord of Lords? More importantly, does it matter to Him?" We must all be the judge of that for ourselves. It's a personal choice, keeping in mind that having a proper attitude toward God Himself is important preparation for worship at church.
I found this article that is interesting on this topic:
It is good for us to ponder why we wear what we do. Genesis 35:1-3 may shed some light on the subject. "Then God said to Jacob, 'Go up to Bethel and settle there. Build an altar there to honor Me. That's where I appeared to you when you were running away from your brother Esau.' So Jacob spoke to his family and to everyone who was with him. He said, 'Get rid of the strange gods you have with you. Make yourselves pure, and change your clothes. Come, let's go up to Bethel. There I'll build an altar to honor God. He answered me when I was in trouble. He's been with me everywhere I've gone.'"
It is possible that as Jacob began this faith-journey to Bethel with God, he recognized how much God had done for him, and how much he needed God! His response was to take everyone with him on this faith-journey, so they could experience God for themselves. "Get rid of the strange gods you have with you. Make yourselves pure" implies the need to be united in "coming clean" before God. "For all have sinned..." (Romans 3:23). Many then had "household idols" with them that they depended on, as well as God. They did not trust God alone. "Change your clothes" implies a change of heart toward sin. It was to be a reflection of what had taken place on the "inside."
We would all benefit from a "spiritual bath" to confess and get rid of sin before we go to church. This is making ourselves pure. For some people, clean is their "best." For others, their heart tells them that wearing their best is showing God His value to them. For still others, there needs to be a caution that their best isn't merely showing off.
It is always the heart God is looking at, rather than the exterior. However, what we wear to worship our holy, pure God may be an indication of where our hearts are. If you have never considered it before, ask yourself, "Does it matter to me how I look when I am going to worship the King of Kings and Lord of Lords? More importantly, does it matter to Him?" We must all be the judge of that for ourselves. It's a personal choice, keeping in mind that having a proper attitude toward God Himself is important preparation for worship at church.
Tim
Puritan Board Graduate
Because jeans used to be considered as part of the work clothing category, like coveralls.
I never said it was right or wrong, only why some might think it odd or improper.
I generally wear jeans and a casual, collard shirt.
It is my preference to dress a little nicer, but it really isn't that big of a concern. I don't think Jesus is worried about the dress of the worshiper, except that it be modest.
Culturally, it is another story. When you are part of a congregation in LA, realizing suburban church-goer clothing standards are not in Scripture is pretty important (not that anyone dresses oddly or inappropriately). I think telling someone they need to go to the store to buy suburban church-goer clothing for worship is a bit interesting to say the least. There is obviously not one cultural standard in LA like there would be in Canfield, Ohio.
The last thing Reformed people need to worry about is what the unchurched dress like with exceptions of immodesty.
Concerning those who are called to preach is a different story in my opinion.
Back to the OP...
It's up to you.
It is my preference to dress a little nicer, but it really isn't that big of a concern. I don't think Jesus is worried about the dress of the worshiper, except that it be modest.
Culturally, it is another story. When you are part of a congregation in LA, realizing suburban church-goer clothing standards are not in Scripture is pretty important (not that anyone dresses oddly or inappropriately). I think telling someone they need to go to the store to buy suburban church-goer clothing for worship is a bit interesting to say the least. There is obviously not one cultural standard in LA like there would be in Canfield, Ohio.
The last thing Reformed people need to worry about is what the unchurched dress like with exceptions of immodesty.
Concerning those who are called to preach is a different story in my opinion.
Back to the OP...
It's up to you.
Joseph Scibbe
Puritan Board Junior
TexanRose
Puritan Board Sophomore
Someone up thread recommended navy blue slacks instead of khakis. However, I will point out that sometimes the navy blue slacks will look worn more quickly, because they fade in the wash.
I would definitely recommend checking out your local Goodwill or other thrift stores. Here in the Houston area, the thrift stores are full of hardly-worn and even brand-new men's dress shirts. Be sure you know your collar size and sleeve length, though: a bad fit will spoil the effect of a brand new dress shirt.
I would definitely recommend checking out your local Goodwill or other thrift stores. Here in the Houston area, the thrift stores are full of hardly-worn and even brand-new men's dress shirts. Be sure you know your collar size and sleeve length, though: a bad fit will spoil the effect of a brand new dress shirt.
gordo
Puritan Board Freshman
Agreed. I wear the same. Jeans and a collared shirt.
Edward
Puritanboard Commissioner
But the theory is that you won't have to wash them as often.
Kevin
Puritan Board Doctor
I love to dress up. When I was in university I was the guy that wore a tie to class. I owned a dinner jacket (tuxedo) before I turned 20. I wore a suit to church every Sunday, my wife wore a dress, and the kids wore the mini versions of our attire.
7 years ago my wife was asked, "why does you family dress like it is 'picture day' every Sunday?" By a church member.
I learned from that that I should not dress according to my preference, but according to what is currently, socially acceptable.
Now, I wear jeans with a sport coat, collared shirt, no tie.
This was my choice after watching what people wore to work and observing the local culture. To try to reply to the OP with-out doing either is silly. In my humble opinion
7 years ago my wife was asked, "why does you family dress like it is 'picture day' every Sunday?" By a church member.
I learned from that that I should not dress according to my preference, but according to what is currently, socially acceptable.
Now, I wear jeans with a sport coat, collared shirt, no tie.
This was my choice after watching what people wore to work and observing the local culture. To try to reply to the OP with-out doing either is silly. In my humble opinion
Jerusalem Blade
Puritan Board Doctor
I saw a godly woman here at PB a few years ago say when her husband wanted to dress up for church he would wear black denim trousers and a sports shirt -- these folks lived in the country. I took this to heart. I recently bought myself a pair of black Levis and a pair of brown denim Lees. In my book these are dressy!
Growing up as a child on Park Ave in NYC I had to wear a sports jacket to dinner. Many years later my wife bought me some khakis and sports jackets (and a suit and tie when we got married), to upgrade my style. But kicking around on the road in the sixties (as a hitchhiking poet), and then living in Woodstock for almost 20 years, I sort of got set into country fashion. I was one of the best dressed of the Woodstock street people -- my clothes were clean, and on Sundays going to church my Fabiano hiking boots were polished.
When my wife & I were attending Redeemer PCA in NYC back in the late 1990s, one Sunday morning I asked her (she being my fashion consultant) if my clean ironed blue denim jeans and shirt with a brown corduroy sports jacket were acceptable, and she answered "Yes." And as I turned around to go about my business, pleased I had passed inspection, I heard her mutter, "for a hayride."
When I pastored the church in Limassol, Cyprus, I generally wore slacks or khakis and a sports shirt -- upon rare occasion, a tie.
I would be very careful about thrift stores these days, as that's where bedbugs congregate. If one must buy from there at least put it right away into a clothes drier on high heat for at least 30 minutes to kill them.
Growing up as a child on Park Ave in NYC I had to wear a sports jacket to dinner. Many years later my wife bought me some khakis and sports jackets (and a suit and tie when we got married), to upgrade my style. But kicking around on the road in the sixties (as a hitchhiking poet), and then living in Woodstock for almost 20 years, I sort of got set into country fashion. I was one of the best dressed of the Woodstock street people -- my clothes were clean, and on Sundays going to church my Fabiano hiking boots were polished.
When my wife & I were attending Redeemer PCA in NYC back in the late 1990s, one Sunday morning I asked her (she being my fashion consultant) if my clean ironed blue denim jeans and shirt with a brown corduroy sports jacket were acceptable, and she answered "Yes." And as I turned around to go about my business, pleased I had passed inspection, I heard her mutter, "for a hayride."
When I pastored the church in Limassol, Cyprus, I generally wore slacks or khakis and a sports shirt -- upon rare occasion, a tie.
I would be very careful about thrift stores these days, as that's where bedbugs congregate. If one must buy from there at least put it right away into a clothes drier on high heat for at least 30 minutes to kill them.
Really depends on the place. The places where I go (mostly for independent local charities, like the Hospital or the Junior League) tend to be clean and the merchandise well-cared-for. Then again, I'm doing my shopping mostly in small towns and small southern cities.
Scottish Lass
Puritan Board Doctor
Thrift/charity shops and the overstock/clearance sections of places like Lands' End (the grammar teacher in me is irked by the punctuation, but I digress) are the best ways to stretch your budget. LE hems for free, even with clearance items. You can get free shipping, too--both they and L.L. Bean have started that recently.
JS116
Puritan Board Freshman
Shawn,
I understand,I don't dress casually to all events because certain events call for certain attire,but seeing how church fellowship isn't not dependent on attire,I really cant ever see myself in going back to "dressing up" to church.Ironically I love wearing suits and things,any of my family can testify for that,I always get compliments on how well i'm dressed from different people.I saw dressing up for church regularly as a stumbling block for me because when I would invite friends to worship at morning service,the number one excuse is "I dont have anything to wear."I dont want them to feel they have to dress up to impress certain people,that's the way the world works not Christians.Im not one of those who will say wear anything,of course keep it in moderation(especially ladies) and everybody should be aware that running around with poor hygiene is a problembut even the world can get those things right.
Some of the most well dressed people now and in history have done some of the heinous things look at these prominent,doctors,politicians,government officials,entertainers,drug dealers etc. all people who wish to dress up for the occasion.I have some of the casual dressing friends who are Lord fearing Christians who are serious,Christ-centered in their walk and theology.Have you ever met any of those christian rap guys like Lecrae,Flame,Trip Lee,Shai Linne or others? They always get noticed how much zeal,humility and piety they have,how theologically sound they are,but yet dress so urban!No they dont sag,that's played out any wayor wear ridiculously big clothes,but they dress casual.Even look at some of the sound reformed preachers coming out today,look at the guys coming out of seminary today with a passion to glorify and serve God.I honestly think our generation is going the generation where moderation principles will be applied but "church clothes" will vanish overtime
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Skyler
Puritan Board Graduate
The store was started by someone named Lands. It was his End.
Scottish Lass
Puritan Board Doctor
GulfCoast Presbyterian
Puritan Board Senior
Seirra Trading Post is a Christian owned company, and very up front about it. I find that quite refresing. They have great deals on close-out, overstocked items, and excellent customer service. I use them frequently. The mix of stuff they offer is wildly diverse. Cashmere scarves to ice climbing crampons on the same page.
sdesocio
Puritan Board Freshman
No!!!! Dont buy Khakis. There is nothing wrong with dressing more or less formally at church. But dont put on the Reformed uniform of Khakis and a button up shirt! If you are going to dress formally do it formally. Get a good all around sports coat, and a few nice slacks (not khakis)
While I disagree with much of the sentiment check out Putthison.com They have some helpful videos about dressing nice (though they are too focused on designer stuff)
While I disagree with much of the sentiment check out Putthison.com They have some helpful videos about dressing nice (though they are too focused on designer stuff)
FedByRavens
Puritan Board Freshman
Another thing that i feel we have to watch is, our convictions matching our preferences. For instance, guys who love to dress formally believe God wants them to be formal, and guys who want to dress casual believe God wants them to dress casual. Brother Sean Porterfield said his pastor preached on Matthew 2 this morning on the verses where Joseph was gonna cut his betrothal to Mary, and the angel of the Lord stopped him. Sean said the theme of the sermon was God's plans differ from ours a lot of the time. May everyone on this thread search their heart concerning this
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