I agree that there are differences country to country and the general "feel" of the population towards religion can determine if there is a hardline or more lax.
I lived in the north of England and the small minded mentality was far different to that which I experienced when I moved to London. Then some years later we moved to Denmark and the english speaking congregation was a shock..it was so laid back!
The danes had light beer at their conventions for years...there was a lot of muttering when it was stopped. Sisters wear trousers in the winter on service (I have seen jeans and jogging bottoms). Beards ok. Longish hair ok. Backless dresses, seen it alot. Trainers for shoes, quite ok for youngsters. However if you travel across Denmark to the more conservative Jylland then everyone is small minded...my daughter was told off for wearing a beret to the meeting.
I often feel sorry for those poor brothers in hot countries that are forced to wear ties on service........in the bush!! I am sure some must rebel.