Re Charlotte Russe, they do have some things that are suitable for non-club wear if you 1) dig 2) wear THE CORRECT SIZE. I have an adorable sweater from there that I've worn to work.
Re church: it all depends on the makeup of the congregation/community. When everyone was working on farms and in mines, they got dressed up in "Sunday best" - suits, ties, dresses and hose. But nowadays when more people have white collar jobs - that's what you wear every day. There's nothing "special" about it. I think that accounts for the more relaxed dress in churches in general. However, the only person who should have a bare midriff in church is Baby Jesus.
