I have also noticed that a white shirt embellishes a persons look. I think one reason is that white resembles purity and also because it enhances our smile since it is white. The white matches a smile and makes it stand out making the person look happier and more attractive. My girlfriend told me she is crazy about men in suits so obviously I gotta start wearing them more often or invite her to church with me.

Thanks,
alex

elizabeth-w “Is it possible they keep track of what Seguallah’s talking about?!”

I think it’s possible, but perhaps more likely that they are simply in tune with the issues ordinary church members face, large and small. I also think it’s proof that revelation for little things does still exist.

Speaking more generally,

Even if culture is an important factor, so what? Temples and meetinghouses are built to match local architectural styles, why not encourage culturally appropriate dress? In my experience outside of church – in my culture – if I’m with a coworker and we’re both wearing suits but everything else is different, the one with the white shirt, more conservative tie and hairstyle, and/or clean face is usually perceived to be the authority figure.

In the end, the golden rule for me is to follow my local leadership. I don’t have a problem with the attitude that says “I like colored shirts better, so I’ll wear them,” in the absence of specific counsel. I do have a problem with the attitude that says “the Bishop asked us to wear white shirts, but that’s stupid so I won’t.” I’m not accusing anyone here of either of these attitudes. The Brethren obviously don’t want to make a Church-wide hard-and-fast rule. I think many local leaders do with good and varied reasons.

I have a Stake President and Bishop who encourage white shirts based on the “uniform of the Priesthood” argument. Dress and grooming guidelines for all members are even posted on our bulletin board. I don’t know the reasons for it beyond what it says, but I do know that a major focus in our stake is unity. In a world that focuses so strongly on diversity and individualism, some local leaders may be inspired to instruct their members to do things as a show of solidarity and/or brotherhood – as a symbol of their willingness to work towards Zion. It may sound silly and small, but so did the brass serpent. Look at the results.

It’s the first thing that came to mind when Elder Oaks started talking about Sacrament meeting, LOL! And I think his quote from Elder Holland was great, i.e., it’s not a requirement, but it is great wherever possible.