How Should a Temple Dress Fit?
A temple dress should fit comfortably and a little relaxed — easy to sit, kneel, and change in without pulling anywhere. Go by your bust measurement, size up if you're between sizes or want a little more room, and lean toward styles with an elastic or relaxed waist.
The golden rule: comfortable and easy to move in
You'll be sitting, kneeling, and changing during your visit, so the right fit isn't skin-tight — it's easy. You want to move without tugging, and sit without anything straining.
How to choose your size
Start with your bust — it's the trickiest area to fit. Compare it to the measurements on each dress's page (we list bust, waist, and length on most styles). If your bust and waist fall in different sizes, size to the larger of the two.
Stretch vs. non-stretch
Stretchy styles (with a little spandex) are forgiving and move with you. Non-stretch styles — like cotton or embroidered fabrics — look a little more structured, so if you're between sizes in a non-stretch dress, size up.
Between sizes? Size up
For a dress you'll sit and kneel in, a touch of room beats a snug fit every time.
The most forgiving fits
If you're unsure, an elastic or tie waist and a tiered or empire shape are the easiest to fit:
- Amelia Tiered Temple Dress — soft Tencel with an elastic waist and sleeves.
- Agnes Tiered Temple Dress — tiered midi with an easy elastic waistband.
- Vivian Temple Dress — a tie waist you can adjust.
Browse fits and measurements in the Temple Dresses collection.
Fit FAQ
Should a temple dress be loose or fitted?
Comfortably relaxed — loose enough to sit, kneel, and move easily, without being shapeless.
Do temple dresses run true to size?
It varies by style, so check the measurements on each dress's page. When in doubt, size up.
What if I'm between sizes?
Size up, especially in non-stretch fabrics.
Are temple dresses lined?
Most of ours are fully lined; a few lighter styles aren't, so we note it and suggest a slip.
Want the full rundown? Read How to Choose an LDS Temple Dress.