Clothing, Hair and Fashion

Plymouth Brethren clothing choices reflect values of modesty, practicality, and appropriateness.

Plymouth Brethren clothing is not governed by dress codes. Members choose to dress as they please. Clothing choices are taken in accordance with principles derived from Scripture and applied with common sense.

Within these principles, there is considerable variety. Plymouth Brethren members dress in contemporary clothing available from ordinary British brands and shops.

Women’s Dress

One distinctive characteristic of our community is the practice of women wearing head coverings during worship. This follows the teaching of 1 Corinthians 11, where the Apostle Paul instructs women to cover their heads when praying.

In practice, this typically means wearing a scarf or other covering during services and often more broadly as a visible expression of faith. For many women in the community, the covering has become a meaningful symbol that connects them to their faith.

Women also generally wear skirts or dresses rather than trousers, reflecting the principle that men’s and women’s dress should be distinct. Hair is often kept long and uncut, again following Scriptural teaching about hair as a woman’s glory.

Women in the Church will make personal choices about how they express these principles in their daily lives.

Men’s Dress

Men in the Plymouth Brethren community dress in contemporary attire. For worship and formal occasions, smart clothing is typical. For work and leisure, clothing appropriate to the activity is worn.

Beards and elaborate hairstyles are not common, reflecting general principles of neatness and modesty.

In a world of increasing ‘fast fashion’, many members have found a freedom in dressing simply, practically, and appropriately.