New temple clothing is being tested to better serve Latter-day Saints

New temple clothing designs for Latter-day Saints in extremely hot climates are being tested around the world as The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints seeks to better meet the needs of its members.

These include an “open sleeve” top for men and women that resembles a tank top with wide straps, a slip design for dresses, and a half slip skirt design.

The description of the new top states: “The fitted shirt top has no underbust seams. The round neckline is finished with a tie, which is also used at the arm opening. The open sleeve is designed to be cooler and remove excess fabric at the armhole. Dry Stretch fabric is a soft polyester/spandex blend that dries quickly and is lightweight.”

Both the full-slip and half-slip designs emphasize the need to “consider women’s health.”

According to product descriptions, “The brief design more easily allows for a variety of possible options to address women's health or other needs. Light Nylon is a 100% nylon fabric that is quick-drying and lightweight.”

These new designs are currently only available in select territories including Uganda, Kenya, South Africa and the Philippines. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has not made an official announcement about this testing phase or when the new designs might become more widely available.

These new designs have been confirmed to be available online in select regions.

Temple clothing has attracted attention across the country, and church leaders have increasingly addressed the spiritual significance of wearing the clothing as instructed.

“Our temple robe reminds us that the Savior and the blessings of His Atonement cover us throughout our lives,” said Sister J. Anette Davis. “As we put on the garment of the holy priesthood each day, this beautiful symbol becomes part of us.”

She continued: “The vestment of the holy priesthood and its relationship to Christ have a deep and beautiful symbolic meaning. I believe that my willingness to wear the holy garment is increasing My Symbol for him. It is my personal sign to God, not a sign to others.”

President Dallin H. Oaks said: “Temple endowment individuals are responsible for wearing a temple robe, a garment that is not visible because it is worn under outer clothing.”

“It reminds gifted members of the sacred covenants they have made and the blessings promised to them in the holy temple. To achieve these sacred goals, we are instructed to wear temple clothing at all times, except for those that are obviously necessary.”

“Because covenants do not include a 'day off,' removing one's vestments can be understood as a renunciation of the covenant duties and blessings to which they refer.” In contrast, those who faithfully wear their vestments and keep their temple covenants constantly reaffirm theirs Role as disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ.”