The Dress Reform by J. H. W.

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Apr 16, 1872

The Dress Reform.

By J. H. W.

I do not know but I shall have to ask a truce of the sisters, as I have not time to give proper attention to all the letters I receive on the subject. A few I must notice.

1. By questions and letter I find that the opinion is prevailing to some extent, that the Committee of the Dress Reform Convention advised that all wear the same color, as do the Quaker women. I do not so understand it. I supposed that the uniformity of color as recommended by them, referred to the dress and pants worn by any individual. The Committee can, however, best settle that point. A word in the REVIEW would help some.

2. The question is asked, “If this dress is to distinguish the sisters from the world, and answers to the ‘ribband of blue,’ required to be worn by the Israelites, why are not the brethren required to wear the ‘ribband of blue,’ or something to distinguish them from the world?” As this question is based on a remark in the report of the Committee, it is proper to refer it to them for an answer.

3. A careful examination of the report of the Committee will show that there was none of the “iron bedstead” principle in it. Its design was (1.) to mark out a path of duty for those whose consciences inclined them to walk in it, and whose circumstances and surroundings rendered it possible to do so. And (2.) to open a way whereby they could obtain the articles necessary to carry out this purpose. Now, inasmuch as prejudice has to be conquered, and pride to be subdued, and some are willing to meet this prejudice in all its strength, it seems to me to be very unwise for those who do not dare to meet it, to throw doubts and discouragements in the way of others who are willing to brave it now. Some of my correspondents occupy just this position, and they are only adding to the weight of the cross which they will have to bear if ever they adopt the reform. If they are conscientious, and think that their circumstances do not justify their adoption of it at present, a word of sympathy and encouragement would do their cross-bearing sisters much more good than objections and complaints.

4. That sister who thinks I am “fanatical on the subject,” I would request to examine what has been written upon it by those who are abler and better informed than myself, especially sister White, and see if I have not kept within the lines of discretion, and “speak the words of truth and soberness.” If sister White has presented a correct view of the matter (and who can gainsay it?), then there is a lamentable apathy in regard to duty on the part of some.

Aside from the misapprehension (as I consider it) in regard to color, none of my correspondents have met the points in my answer to the “puzzled woman,” nor attempted to answer the questions therein proposed. The sister who thought I was fanatical, treated the matter in a light and ironical style, hardly in keeping with the importance of the subject. Have we the “Present Truth?” If so, let us treat it as such. J. H. W.