Clothing, Hair and Fasion

Clothing and hair in the Plymouth Brethren Community

There are no strict Plymouth Brethren rules around clothing or hair, but there are a few traditions and values based in scripture to which we adhere. These traditions and beliefs influence the day-to-day choices of the Plymouth Brethren when it comes to dress and presentation.

Modesty and humility in clothing choices

The men and women of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church typically dress neatly and modestly. There are many references to modest dress in scripture, including 1 Peter 3:3-4, and 1 Timothy 2:9-10.

For most of their day-to-day activities, such as at work, attending events or church meetings, Plymouth Brethren men will wear long pants and collared shirts. They usually avoid wearing ties, unless the occasion requires it (for example, attending court). Plymouth Brethren women will usually wear skirts or dresses.

Of course, long pants, collared shirts, skirts and dresses are not always suitable, especially when undertaking activities such as exercise or other sport. In these cases, Brethren men and women would wear whatever was suitable, practical and comfortable!

Traditional choices in hair styles

Plymouth Brethren men are usually clean-shaven, and have short, neat hairstyles. Plymouth Brethren women usually will wear their hair longer. Both men and women would avoid unnatural hair colours or dyes.

Church attire and Brethren head coverings

Plymouth Brethren women will wear head scarfs when attending church meetings. Very young girls, toddlers and babies may sometimes wear another type of head covering, such as a bonnet or a hat. If a non-Brethren woman was to attend a church meeting, she would be politely asked to wear a scarf or another kind of head covering as a show of respect. This tradition is based in scripture, such as 1 Corinthians 11:5-6: “But every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonours her head”.

The Plymouth Brethren are not unique in this, and many other religions choose to use head coverings as a way of practicing their faith.

Outside of attendance at church meetings, Brethren women will wear an item in their hair. This item is likely to be a headband, a ribbon or a clip. (1 Corinthians 11 v 10).

Are Brethren women allowed to wear makeup?

Plymouth Brethren women may choose to wear makeup, and many do. But they would typically apply it minimally and modestly, avoiding anything bright or bold, enhancing their natural features and tones.

Do Brethren wear jewellery?

Members of the Plymouth Brethren would avoid wearing a lot of jewellery, apart from wedding rings for women, and watches.

What do Brethren wear when they get married?

Brethren women will usually wear a modest, white wedding dress and a veil. Brethren men will usually wear dark trousers and white shirts, without ties.