A motion that would scrap the requirement for traditional robes was passed in principle at the General Synod in York.
It will still need final approval at another meeting.
The measures are part of an overhaul of canon law regarding how church leaders dress.
The changes include giving clergy the option not to wear traditional vestments while performing official church ceremonies such as Holy Communion or weddings, baptisms and funerals.
Currently the rules stipulate that vicars wear proper robes when performing these duties however in practice they are often ignored, particularly at more contemporary Anglican services or churches.
Synod member Revd Canon Jonathan Alderton Ford told Premier he was unsure the change was even needed.
He said: "It was a debate, in my view that generated more heat than light.
"The point is, that although what's being asked for is the liberty to wear appropriate dress for different occasions, it already exists.
"As one bishop pointed out this has been going on for about 40 years and no one has been prosecuted for not wearing the right robs and common sense is prevailing.
"So why do we need to spend 20, 30, 40 or 50 thousand pounds on rewriting legislation?"
