Who has heard the phrase, "modest is hottest"? I think we have all heard it at least once or twice in our lives. I remember the first time I heard that saying. I think I even chuckled a bit because it seemed to just add to another list of typical Christian sayings. No harm, it was just describing the virtue talked about in 1 Timothy 2:9. Lots of Christian artists were using the saying to promote modesty at the time, and as a young girl heavily involved in my youth group and all things church, I just went along with it.

I remember in middle school, I was not really into fashion. I played sports year round and wore uniforms to school every day. After school, I would put on a pair of basketball shorts and my jersey and head out to the court or ball field to practice and by the time I got home, dressing up was the least of my concerns. In high school, I would try a little harder. Of course, you start noticing the boys and trying out makeup. I still was not into fashion like I am now, but I dressed a little more feminine as I aged and would throw a ribbon in my hair for softball, that counts right?

All throughout school I was taught about modesty. I always assumed that meant to cover your knees or do not have your chest hanging out for the world to see, and I guess you probably should not show your belly either. The older I got the more I would think, "Does anyone else feel like those words hold a lot of weight?" What does it really mean to be modest? Is it only about clothes? What is modesty actually about? As a woman myself, modesty is not always the most comfortable topic to discuss. There are so many different opinions that fly around when the word modesty comes into a conversation. I have to admit, I used to be that person who would see a woman walk into church with a shorter dress and automatically label her as inappropriate or immodest. It never once occurred to me that maybe that is all she knows? Or just because she is wearing that does not mean her heart is not on God, at least she is here.

The frame of the term “modest is hottest” was built around concept that women should cover up so that they do not make their brothers stumble. Being into fashion like I am, I had to make the decision, if I was going to go with the latest crop top, short shorts, tiny skirt trend or if I was going to keep it covered up. I remember standing in the mirror trying on clothes and thinking, “Ugh, this would look so much better with a crop top but, NO! I cannot wear one of those.” The thing about it is that modesty is not supposed to be a punishment. Here is what I learned over time: I love fashion, I love all different types of clothing, but when I made the decision to love the Lord, I took on the responsibility of being a walking billboard for Him. However, I redefined the definition of modesty. Modesty is a personal choice, to me, = and it begins inside and is reflected on the outside. It is not about a trend that is going around, but more about a mind set. Modesty can be empowering. Along with that, modesty also comes with action. You can be completely covered up, but running down the street yelling and cussing probably is not the best way to be modest.

I try to use my clothing to make a fashion statement, and not my body. Leah Darrow (former America’s next top model) stated it perfectly, “I want people see some part of Christ in me. I love the body God has given me; I am a temple of the Holy Spirit. We should showcase THAT.” Modesty is not about a lack of confidence or lack or fashion. You can still be fun and wear trendy clothing without showing everything. A few of my favorite pieces are tanks to add if the top is too low, a statement necklace to draw focus, or extenders to make my dresses the length that I want them. You can look at some celebs for tips like Sarah Jessica Parker, Mindy Kaling, or Kate Middleton. Modesty can be challenging, but to me it brings a sense of dignity. You are challenged to be a little bit more creative! Modesty is making its way back into the industry. You can find many celebs and high fashion lines such as Dolce and Gabbana bringing more tasteful and sophisticated items into their lines. A growing desire for modesty is hitting the fashion bloggers and online markets as well. Lastly, do not be ashamed of your body, prioritize strength, dignity, and confidence, and then dress accordingly.

Xoxo,

EG