The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) has recently ignited a fervor among its followers with the release of a redesigned version of its temple garments, leading many women to seek out these items through unconventional means. The temple garments, traditionally designed to be modest and serve as a spiritual reminder of religious commitments, have undergone a transformation that has prompted significant interest within the community.
In late 2022, the church announced a “slightly more revealing” version of these garments, aimed at providing options for members living in warmer climates. The new design, which features a tank-top style instead of the classic short-sleeve shirt, marks a notable shift in the church’s nearly 200-year history of garment design. The response to this change has been overwhelming, particularly in the United States, where the largest concentration of Mormons resides.
High Demand Sparks Black Market Activity
Upon the official release of the new temple garments, demand soared, resulting in long lines at stores. Reports indicate that many women were willing to go to great lengths to obtain these items. As Andrea Fausett, a Mormon influencer from Hawaii, expressed, “I will get them at all costs. I will fly to Japan if I need to,” showcasing the lengths to which some are willing to go.
Shayla Egan, another member of the community, shared her astonishment after waiting over three hours in line to purchase the garments. Meanwhile, stylist McKenna Banks, who specializes in modest fashion, noted that Mormons were “dying” to acquire the new designs. The scarcity of these garments has led to the emergence of a black market, with church members reportedly paying over US$150 plus shipping to acquire them from countries such as Uganda, Kenya, South Africa, and the Philippines, which had larger quantities available.
The excitement surrounding the new garments has been evident on social media, where many have expressed their joy upon finally securing them. One user on TikTok shared, “Me crying because someone sent me a tank top garment so I can wear it on my wedding day and have sleeves just like my little girl heart wanted.” The emotional responses highlight the significance of these garments in their religious and personal lives.
Mixed Reactions to the New Design
While many church members celebrate the new garments, others have reported feelings of disappointment and jealousy due to the limited availability. Some individuals noted that they “never saw it coming,” reflecting the unexpected nature of the demand surge. Onlookers outside the faith have expressed bemusement at the excitement surrounding what has been described as “church-approved undies,” leading to a mix of reactions online.
Critics have also pointed out the discomfort previously associated with the old design, which many women claimed negatively impacted their well-being and intimate relationships. The redesigned garments have been met with relief by some, who have long vocalized their concerns about the traditional styles.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints may not have anticipated the fervor that the new temple garments would generate. The phenomenon highlights a growing trend among religious communities to adapt traditional practices to modern needs, sparking both enthusiasm and debate within and outside the faith. As demand continues to rise, it remains to be seen how the church will address these challenges moving forward.