Please sign in to post.

Fashion Tips with Respect

Re: covered shoulders for inside churches, etc. Is it OK to wear a sleeveless top (women) that has top shoulders covered? Think of a "sleeveless golf shirt" style, but obviously not that. Wondering if that style is considered OK and no need to have to cover exposed arms?

Thank you.

Posted by
131 posts

Just toss a light scarf into your bag. It can come in handy in many circumstances other than a church, too. Easy to put over your shoulders, and there's no wondering if you're okay or not.

Posted by
1041 posts

It is respectful to not wear a sleeveless (meaning no sleeves not just strapless) top. Skirts and shorts to the top of the knee. Men are asked to remove their hats. We have seen people asked to remove hats and to cover up. A scarf works if confused about whats appropriate.

Posted by
1259 posts

We were just in Sicily and Rome and for the most part sleeveless where most of the top of your shoulder is covered is just fine. Shorts that ended right at my knees and that type of sleeveless top was my standard and I was never asked to cover up. I actually felt downright conservative compared to the bellies, straps and very short shorts I saw in churches. Those people were asked to cover up and most churches had plastic wraps you could use for whichever area needed it.

Posted by
151 posts

I couldn’t agree with Anne more! You will be amazed at how handy a scarf comes in while traveling. Last fall I made my first ever trip to Italy and brought a scarf (also a great gift to buy and bring home to others) it worked out so well that I will never travel without one. We would start out early in the morning so I needed my scarf for the extra warmth. When the day warms up pop it into your backpack as the day cools get the scarf out and voila you’re set. It’s so versatile you can wear it over your shoulders for coverage or even over your head.

Posted by
369 posts

Another vote for scarves! Those old stone churches can be cold.