Redesigned Temple Garments Tested to Enhance Comfort in Hot, Humid Regions

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is currently testing new temple garments designed to better serve members, particularly those in hot and humid climates. The First Presidency has authorized changes in the garment to bless those members and others who might benefit from the changes.

These redesigned garments offer improved comfort, with options such as sleeveless tops for both men and women and a skirt-bottom combination for women. This update is part of a broader effort to accommodate members’ physical needs while maintaining the sacred nature of the garment.

The new garments are being made available to members in specific regions, such as Uganda, and were developed in response to feedback from members who found traditional garments less comfortable in extreme climates. The changes were authorized by the First Presidency, which emphasized the sacredness of the temple garment as a symbol of covenants made with God. The redesigned garments retain their deep religious significance while offering practical improvements for wearability.

This includes an “open sleeve” top for men and women which resembles a wide-strap tank top, a slip design for dresses, and a half-slip skirt design. 

The description for the new top reads, “The snug-fitting chemise top has no underbust seams. The round neckline is finished with a binding which is also used on the arm opening. The open sleeve is designed to be cooler and eliminate excess fabric at the armhole. Dry Stretch fabric is a soft polyester/spandex blend that dries quickly and is lightweight.”

These modifications reflect the Church’s focus on enhancing the experience of wearing the temple garment without compromising its symbolic role in members’ lives. The garments serve as a reminder of covenants made in the temple and are considered an expression of personal commitment to live according to those covenants.

The testing and introduction of these garments underscore the Church’s responsiveness to the diverse needs of its global membership while preserving the spiritual integrity of temple practices. Members can expect continued adjustments based on the feedback from this ongoing test phase.