p. 142 | The Dress Question

Publishing Committee · Battle Creek, Mich. · Sep 23, 1858

The Dress Question.

We have been waiting for a general expression from our sisters in answer to Bro. Byington's question in REVIEW No. 12. The following responses have been made which we give in the order in which they were received.

From Sister Gurney.

BRO. SMITH: I notice Bro. Byington's request in the Review, No. 12. Permit me to say.

Any article of dress worn with respect to health, comfort, economy, or convenience, cannot justly be condemned. But conforming to the world in their fashions, varying from the above principle, must be destructive to the christian faith; therefore "immodest."

The moment we try to keep up appearances with the world or those conforming to it, holiness is departing from the heart and the Spirit of God is grieved. As light is opposed to darkness, so is pride to holiness.

On the above principle, why may not "hoops be recomended to the church generally" in this season of the year, when used with moderation? In regard to "sleeves which are the largest at the little end," I have never had any experience; I see no reasons why they are justifiable, either in regard to convenience or economy. Hence, as they are not limited to due bounds, wanting in the restraint which christianity requires. I therefore conclude they are immodest.

A lover of the whole truth. ANN E. GURNEY. Jackson, Mich., Aug. 8th, 1858.