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There’s a new fervor among Mormon women, driven by an unexpected source: a redesigned piece of religious clothing. This fascination has become so intense that some are resorting to the black market to acquire it, once again thrusting the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints into the limelight.
The church recently introduced changes to its well-known temple garments, a special form of underwear that devout members wear beneath their clothing. These garments have traditionally been designed with modesty in mind, serving as a continuous reminder of their spiritual commitments and covenants.
Historically, the garments featured cap sleeves and a high cut, which posed a challenge for many, particularly women, as these styles were difficult to wear discreetly under modern clothing.
The introduction of a “slightly more revealing” version late last year has caused a stir within the community. The church’s intention was to offer more comfortable options for members living in hot and humid climates, but the announcement has sparked widespread excitement and demand.
That’s why, when the church announced a “slightly more revealing” version at the end of last year to give “options in styles and fabrics for those residing in hot, humid areas”, the community went nuts.
It saw the classic short-sleeve shirt – worn with knee-length shorts – trimmed back to a tank-top style, and marked the first time the faith has offered the underclothing without sleeves in its nearly 200-year history.
After months of waiting, the “skimpy” new temple garments were finally released in America, the country with the largest concentration of Mormons.
But the church clearly underestimated demand, with huge queues forming outside of stores, eventually resulting in US-based Mormons going to extreme lengths to secure the in-demand goods.
One Mormon influencer based in Hawaii said she was prepared to do whatever it took to get the new undies immediately.
“I will get them at all costs. I will fly to Japan if I need to,” Andrea Fausett, 31, told The New York Times recently.
“My mouth dropped to the floor when I saw the line,” declared Shayla Egan on Instagram after waiting over three hours in line.
While a Utah-based stylist who specialises in modest dressing, McKenna Banks, told the publication Mormons were “dying” to get the new undies.
As a result, a “black market” has reportedly emerged online, where desperate churchgoers are paying inflated prices for the hot-ticket item.
Many have paid over US$150 plus shipping to source garments from warmer climates, such as Uganda, Kenya, South Africa, and the Philippines, where larger quantities were released.
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints followers among the lucky few to score the sacred garments first have been flooding social media, some in tears, as they expressed their joy.
“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,” said one on TikTok.
“When you’re finally able to wear tops with no sleeves and feel closer to God than ever,” shared another.
But the lack of availability has also sparked disappointment and jealousy among churchgoers, with some stating they “never saw it coming.”
Those not following the Mormon faith have watched on, seemingly bemused at the furore over “church approved undies”.
“A church having a merch drop is WILD,” said one.
“I cannot FATHOM waiting in line for 3 hours to buy church approved ‘underwear’,” added another.
While one remarked, “This is simultaneously the funniest and saddest thing I think I’ve ever seen.”
Others said they had “no idea” Mormons were required to wear garments at all times, previously believing it was something that was just worn while attending church.
Female Mormons had been pretty vocal in the past about the issues of the old design, expressing “significant discomfort” and feelings of body shame that negatively affected their overall wellbeing and sex life with their partners.
