From the ’90s to Today: How One Brand Helps Carry On the Sunday Best Tradition

The Sunday Best Tradition and the People Who Keep It Alive

On a Sunday morning, before the first hymn is sung and before the pastor begins to preach, something special happens in churches across the country. It’s not loud or flashy. It’s quiet, almost like a slow parade. Women walk through the doors dressed in their “Sunday Best” — suits with neat lines, colors that seem to fit together like they were made for each other, and hats that sit proudly on their heads like crowns.

This tradition has been around for generations. It’s more than simply looking nice. For many, it’s about showing respect — for the service, for the place, and for themselves. In some communities, it’s also a way to show personality and pride. The clothes tell a story without saying a word.

The “Sunday Best” tradition has deep roots, especially in African American church culture. Years ago, Sunday service was often the most important social gathering of the week. It was a time when everyone could bring out their finest clothes and feel their best, no matter what challenges they faced during the week. Many women remember the dresses their mothers wore, or the suits their grandmothers picked out for special occasions. These clothes became tied to family memories, holiday services, and important life moments.

In New Hyde Park, New York, there’s a small company that has been part of that story for nearly three decades. Since 1995, Tally Taylor has been designing suits and dresses for women to wear to church and other special events. You’ll see their styles at Sunday services, usher programs, choir anniversaries, and church conventions.

“We have women who wore our suits to their mother’s church back in the ’90s,” says Bobby, who runs the brand. “Now, their daughters are wearing them to their own churches. It’s not just about clothing — it’s about keeping a part of our culture going.”

The company offers different styles for different needs. Some women prefer knit sets that are comfortable enough for long services but still look polished. Others choose more structured suits for choir groups or leadership events. One thing that sets the brand apart is that every style is made in sizes from small to plus size.

“Every woman deserves the same care and detail, no matter her size,” Bobby says. “We don’t change the fabrics or patterns just because it’s a bigger size. Everyone should feel like they’re wearing something made with them in mind.”

Over the years, styles have changed. Fabrics are lighter now, which makes them easier to wear in warmer weather. The colors have expanded beyond the traditional black, navy, and cream to include brighter shades that appeal to younger women. But even with these updates, the heart of the tradition remains the same.

Many women keep their church suits for years. Some have a favorite they bring out only for certain occasions — a Women’s Day program, a church anniversary, or a day when they’re speaking or leading. These outfits carry memories. They’re tied to moments when the wearer felt proud, strong, and connected to her community.

“There’s just something about putting on a suit you know was made for an occasion like this,” Bobby says. “It changes how you carry yourself. You walk in with your head high. You feel like you belong there.”

Even as everyday clothing has become more casual, the Sunday Best tradition has not disappeared. Across the country, in big cities and small towns, there are still women who take time on Saturday night to lay out their outfit for church the next morning. And when the church doors open, that quiet, beautiful parade begins again.

It’s a reminder that while fashion moves forward, some traditions are worth holding onto — one well-chosen suit, one perfect hat, and one confident step at a time.