Small-Town Pastor: What To Wear “Off-Duty?”

We have had a cry for help from the Midwest! Our lovely young minister, all of 28 years old, wants some guidance in how to dress for those times she is neither at the church nor out and about on ministerial business. We could call it “off-duty” wear, couldn’t we, colleagues? Except as she is wise enough to understand, and as you have all had plenty of experience verifying, small-town Revs. are never off-duty! Wherever we go we are likely to run into parishioners or community friends and colleagues. It isn’t necessary to obsessively concern ourselves with Representing The Church at all moments, but it is a good idea for one so young as Courtney to make conscious choices as she builds a working wardrobe.

Here she is on the steps of her former church:

What I see here is youth! beauty! non-descript suit!
So first of all, sweet Courtney, I encourage you to explore ways to make your look more uniquely YOU. Accessories and colors are your friend – play with them! Or, like, add some crazy cool shoes to this suit to make a statement. I found these as an example:

“Erika” Oxford by John Fleuvog

Or these,

I would love to see you in separates that give you a little more shape, since that suit is roomy in both the top and the bottom. Look for blazers that have a more defined waist:

Or cropped would be good for you, too:


(Why does everything have to be so SKIN TIGHT these days? Geesh!)

I like a nice, open lapel since it shows more of a pop of color from a blouse or striking necklace that can add some zip to a neutral, classic suit.

As far as your down-time looks go, Courtney, you can start by using some of your professional wear as jumping-off points. For instance, throw a longer t-shirt on under a cropped blazer or jacket, pair it with jeans, and voila!

This is a great, grown-up out-and-about look — it’s very sophisticated but very comfy. Jeans, t-shirt, big slouchy bag, sunglasses (that may be a bit glam for your small town, but do what you like).

For something even more casual, I love hoodies:

Old Navy

They’re sporty but not frumpy or slobby. They can be fun colors. They’re a step way above the usual grey collegiate zip-ups, which I think you should avoid at your age. Entering the pastorate is also time to put away any fraternity or sorority wear, kitty cats. I think sports regalia is just Instant Slob material and never wear it out except to walk the dog in the yard. I’d rather err on the side of kooky boho chick in dresses and leggings and crazy layers than to look like Victoria of Greater Slobovia shlumping along in a Boston Red Sox sweatshirt. Seriously? Nothing catapults a person so rapidly into Frumpsville than sports regalia: why haven’t I said that years ago?

Courtney, you sent me this photo of yourself in summer casual wear:

It looks like you’re on vacation and having a wonderful time! There’s not a thing wrong with this outfit — except that if you’re wearing it off-duty in town, you’d want to swap the rolled-up shorts for something that hits a bit lower on the knee and pair them with something a bit more covered-up. If you would be wearing spaghetti straps on vacation:

Old Navy

… look for something a bit more modest for town:

Old Navy

Here’s a cute summer look:

You can step it up with a cute pair of sandals that aren’t flip flops:

You can pair this top with your khaki suit pants in the spring or summer for the office, by the way. I mean, those pants can go with so much!

Old Navy

Basically, Courtney, it’s all about styling. You don’t need a big new wardrobe, but your casual looks should be clean and not tattered, and if you want to project a mature image just put a tiny bit of effort into your running-around ensembles. Add a belt. Put on some lipstick. Get a pair of sandals that are a step up from Tevas. Make sure the jeans aren’t super-faded or frayed on the hems. Carry a good-looking bag and not a ratty tote. Acquire a jacket that has more sophistication than a sporty anorak.

Keep it simple and comfortable, but keep it womanly.