Biblical and Spirit of Prophecy Guidance on Women's Attire

Women of God are called to maintain a plain distinction between male and female attire, as wearing the same dress for both sexes is an abomination that leads to confusion and crime Deuteronomy 22:5T11 5.7+2. While the Bible and inspiration provide specific principles regarding modesty and health, they do not support women adopting mannish styles or the "American costume" which imitates the opposite sex through garments like vests, coats, and caps2SM 477.7+3.

The Standard of Distinction

• Divine Requirement: God has specified that there should be a clear difference between the clothing of men and women to preserve the peculiarity of His people Deuteronomy 22:5PH123 58.2+1.

• Modesty and Propriety: Apparel that is wholly unfitted for humble followers of Christ, such as that which is nearly identical to men’s clothing, is considered immodest and is a disregard of God's special directions 1 Timothy 2:91T 421.3+1.

• The Problem of Extremes: Adopting masculine styles carries dress reform to objectionable lengths and results in the loss of a woman's influence for good2SM 477.7+1.

The "Reform Dress" vs. Mannish Trousers

A distinction must be made between adopting men's trousers and the specific "reform dress" once advocated for health and modesty3SM 253.2+2.

• The Healthful Pattern: The approved reform dress consisted of a short skirt reaching below the top of a woman's boot or gaiter shoe, paired with lined pants that were gathered at the ankle or made full and tapering to meet the shoe1T 460.3+2.

• Protection and Circulation: This style was designed to protect the limbs from cold air, equalizing circulation and preventing diseases caused by the fashionable styles that left the limbs nearly naked1T 460.3+3.

• Current Guidance: While the specific pattern of the 1860s is no longer urged as a precise rule, the principles of health, modesty, and neatness remain the standardSpM 91.1+2. Women should not reintroduce the short dress and pants unless they have a clear word from the Lord, but should instead wear simple, modest dresses that avoid the filth of the streetsSpM 91.1+1.

Principles for Godly Women

• Inward Adorning: The focus of a Christian woman should be the "hidden man of the heart" and the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit rather than outward display 1 Peter 3:3-42SG 228.1+2.

• Modest Apparel: True followers of Christ will clothe themselves in a way that shows they are on the Lord's side, using clothing that is neat, simple, and free from needless adornment 1 Timothy 2:9-10WM 273.1+3.

• A Shield from Peril: Chaste simplicity in dress, combined with a modest demeanor, creates an atmosphere of sacred reserve that serves as a shield against the temptations and evils of the ageSA 148.2+1.

In summary, it is not appropriate for women to wear trousers that imitate men's attire Deuteronomy 22:5T11 5.7+1. However, it is essential that the limbs be thoroughly and modestly clothed for health, using garments that are distinctly feminine and in harmony with the principles of the Word of God1T 460.3+2.