The charism, the community's specific ministry, and varying emphases on prayer and common life are the basic differences among religious communities. There are various reasons for wearing habits or clerical garb. Religious dress can be a sign to others of faith in God and commitment to a religious life. For some religious communities, the habit is a sign of penitence. Some communities give their members the option of wearing ordinary clothes, saying that the most valid sign of Christian faith is lifestyle rather than garb.
Experience shows that religious dress can create an undesirable barrier to lay co-workers.
The original religious garb was usually the contemporary dress that simply got institutionalized over the centuries. Many religious sisters, priests, and brothers choose to wear the dress of the day which is reflective of their desire to live a modest, simple life. Becoming a candidate with a diocese or religious community does not mean that your child is obligated to become a priest, sister or brother. Formation directors help candidates discern whether or not this choice is a good one. There is absolutely nothing shameful about trying out seminary life or religious life, discerning that it is not one's vocation, and departing.