Wear clean, modest clothes that show respect for the Eucharist: shoulders covered, nothing too short or revealing, and nothing that draws attention to itself. The Catholic Church has no universal dress code, but the Catechism asks that our clothing show respect, solemnity and joy.
At a glance
- Church teaching: Catechism 1387, clothing should show respect, solemnity and joy
- Dress code: none worldwide; local customs and some shrines have their own rules
- Safe rule: shoulders and knees covered
- Head covering: optional since 1983
What does the Church say?
The Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 1387, speaks about preparing to receive Communion. It says our bodily demeanor, including our gestures and clothing, should convey respect, solemnity and joy, because in the Eucharist Christ becomes our guest.
Beyond that, there is no single worldwide rule. As Fr. Kenneth Doyle noted in his Catholic News Service column, the Church has no universal dress code for Mass, likely because standards differ so much across cultures. Your parish, a cathedral or a shrine may ask for more, so follow what is asked locally.
A simple checklist
- Clean and neat, even if casual.
- Shoulders covered: sleeves, or a cardigan or scarf over a sleeveless top.
- Skirts, dresses and shorts at or below the knee, or trousers.
- No beachwear, gym wear or very tight or sheer clothes.
- No slogans or images that would distract others in prayer.
- Comfortable shoes you can kneel and walk in.
What can women wear?
A dress or skirt that covers the knee, or trousers, with a top that covers the shoulders, works in almost every church. A light scarf is useful: it covers bare shoulders when you walk in, and some women also use it to cover their head. That is a personal choice, not a rule. Read more in why Catholics wear veils at Mass.
What can men wear?
Trousers or chinos with a shirt that has sleeves, such as a polo or a button-down, are a safe choice. Men traditionally remove their hats in church.
Is it okay to wear jeans or a hoodie to Mass?
In many parishes, clean jeans and a neat top are common at Sunday Mass, and nobody will turn you away. Think of it as a step up from what you would wear at home: if you would wear it to a family celebration, it is usually fine. On a weekday Mass on pilgrimage, when you go straight from the hills to church, a clean tee and a warm layer are normal. For a wedding, a Confirmation or a big feast day, dress up.
What to wear to Mass when you travel or go on pilgrimage
On a pilgrimage you often go from a climb, to Mass, to Adoration without changing. Pack clothes that work for all of it:
- Tops with sleeves, so you never need to cover up.
- Long trousers or a skirt below the knee.
- A large light scarf, for your shoulders, your head or the sun.
- A warm layer for cool evenings outdoors.
- Walking shoes that are clean enough for church.
See our full packing list for a Medjugorje pilgrimage.
Modest pieces that work from the hill to the pew
Our tees have sleeves and our scarves cover your shoulders or head. The 50 × 50 inch Clothed with the Sun scarf works as a head covering at Mass.
Traveling with a group? See group orders: 20% off for 20 or more pilgrims.