7 Ways to Balance Fashion Trends with Modesty as a Woman
I can still remember how my mum was so keen on ensuring we dressed up modestly while I was growing up. She would buy us clothes that cover our bodies properly and even though everyone thinks she is doing that so that we will wear those clothes for many years before we can no longer wear them, she does that to ensure that we grow up with the mentality that modest dressing is very important and we should embrace such as we grow up. For me, at a point, wearing revealing clothes became uncomfortable. I carefully choose clothes that will not reveal my body and make it calling. Indeed, our manner of dressing speaks more about who we are than what we call ourselves. We dress the way we want to be addressed. My mother would say, “Parents are the major contributors to the issue of dressing we have in the society today because whatever you raise a child with tends to stick with them even till they no longer depend on their parents’ choices.”
Today, the world is no longer the way it used to be, everything is far different from the way it used to be and today’s Fashion is already deteriorating. A woman’s manner of dressing some decades ago can not be compared to what it is today. People celebrate nudity and no longer see anything bad in a woman being dressed half-naked or with some sensitive parts of the body open. Although fashion trends change constantly, often reflecting cultural shifts and societal preferences, children of God should not follow worldly trends. While many styles can be attractive and stylish, not all align with our values of modesty as Christians. As a Christian woman, you are called to dress in a way that glorifies God while expressing yourself beautifully (1 Corinthians 10:31). The scripture also encourages modesty and self-control (1 Timothy 2:9-10) but does not prohibit looking fashionable and elegant. Balancing fashion trends with modesty requires wisdom, discernment, and a firm understanding of God’s word.
Below are seven ways to embrace fashion trends without tampering with your walk with God:
1. Have a Definition of Modesty Based on God’s Standards
2. Select the Trends to Follow
3. Model Your Outfits to Maintain Modesty
4. Embrace Elegant and Timeless Fashion Over Today’s Trend
5. Prioritize Comfort and Confidence
6. Be a Good Example for Others
7. Allow the Holy Spirit to Guide You Always
1. Have a Definition of Modesty Based on God’s Standards
I have a definition for modesty which is “honouring God.” Before embracing any fashion trend, it’s important to understand what modesty means by looking at it through the eyes of the scripture. Modesty goes beyond covering the body—it reflects a heart of humility, self-respect, and reverence for God. The Bible says, “I also want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, adorning themselves, not with elaborate hairstyles or gold or pearls or expensive clothes, but with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God” (1 Timothy 2:9-10). Also, the word of God reminds us that “Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised” (Proverbs 31:30). As a woman, you should dress in a way that honours God and avoid drawing unnecessary attention to yourself, and promote purity rather than sensuality. Avoid clothing that is too revealing, tight-fitting, or overly extravagant. Focus on styles that express elegance and dignity. Remember that modesty is about attitude as much as attire; therefore, whatever you wear speaks a lot about who you truly are, and you’re the Bible that people are reading presently.
2. Select the Trends to Follow
Should I follow the normal trend when it comes to fashion? No! Why? Because I know who I am. My body is not mine, it belongs to God. Therefore, making the wrong choice of clothing will greatly affect me. I can not wear just anything the world without God wears because I do not own myself. These are the exact words you should say to yourself before purchasing any clothing or even accepting it as a gift. Not every fashion trend is appropriate for you as a woman. Some styles emphasize sensuality, while others promote self-glorification. You must assess trends carefully before adopting them. The word of God instructs us; “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2). Your mind should be set on things above and not earthly things (Colossians 3:2). Research current trends and determine if they align with your values as a Christian. If a fashion trend promotes immodesty, pride, or excessive materialism, it is not suitable. Choose styles that enhance your femininity and dignity without tampering with your beliefs.
3. Model Your Outfits to Maintain Modesty
There are times I buy net fabrics that naturally should not be worn like that even though I see people who wear them barely and reveal their bodies. When I get materials like this, I inform the person sewing it to ensure that the net fabrics get mixed with a material that goes with it and they are certainly materials that will cover my body perfectly. Many trendy outfits can be modified to align with modesty. Layering is an excellent way to adapt fashion trends without sacrificing decency. Read this: “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honour God with your bodies” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
Did you read that? You were bought with a price; you do not belong to yourself but you belong to God! Wear camisoles, slips, or tank tops under sheer or low-cut tops. Use leggings or tights under short skirts or dresses, or choose not to wear them at all. Choose loose-fitting clothing instead of tight or body-hugging outfits. Opt for longer hemlines or wear stylish long skirts and dresses. Look at yourself in the mirror after dressing up and ask, if God will be present in the form of a man today, will He call me His own amid multitudes? Also, if I will be approached by a man today, will it be by someone responsible? Your question will help you make the right choice.
4. Embrace Elegant and Timeless Fashion Over Today’s Trend
Today, responsible women still appreciate modest items of clothing. Classic and elegant styles are often more modest and sophisticated than extreme or short-lived fashion trends. Timeless fashion ensures you always look simple and appropriate. The book of Proverbs says, “Like a gold ring in a pig’s snout is a beautiful woman who shows no discretion” (Proverbs 11:22). Also, the Bible says your beauty shouldn’t come from outward adornment but that of your inner self (1 Peter 3:3-4). Invest in well-tailored, modest clothing that remains stylish for years. Avoid trends that are overly flashy, loud, or extreme and revealing. Choose soft, elegant fabrics and colours that show you’re a child of God.
5. Prioritize Comfort and Confidence
Most times, when I wear simple and modest clothes, It boosts my confidence and comes with comfort. Most times, I watch people who wear revealing clothes with their thighs and cleavage out, struggling to ensure their bodies do not get more exposed than they have been exposed. They adjust their breasts several times and use their hands to pull down the tops, revealing their navels or even the short skirts they are wearing. Some even wear long dresses but you can tell the color of their panties at a glance. Dressing modestly will never make you feel uncomfortable or insecure. It makes you feel confident while reflecting on your values as a child of God. Psalm 139:14 (NIV) says, “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” Wear clothes that make you feel comfortable and at ease. Your confidence comes from knowing you are honouring God with your appearance.
6. Be a Good Example for Others
Ask yourself this question; am I a good example to others? It will help you know if you should either continue or stop dressing like that. As a woman, your fashion choices influence others. Modesty sets a godly example and encourages younger women to embrace godly values as a result of what they do. The Bible instructs us, “Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live… Then they can urge the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure” (Titus 2:3-5). This means that your lifestyle should be like a torchlight that will lead those coming after you to walk on the right path. The Bible calls us light, and it says we should make the light shine before men so God can be glorified (Matthew 5:16). Encourage young girls and fellow women to value modesty. Use your fashion choices as a way to demonstrate self-respect and godliness. Show that modest fashion can be beautiful, stylish, and honouring to God. When you dress modestly, you’re not only pleasing God, you’re also raising a generation of godly women.
7. Allow the Holy Spirit to Guide You Always
Sometimes I pray when I want to choose a certain item of clothing to wear out. I ask the Holy Spirit to guide my hands to make the right choice. It’s not like I have any clothes that are not good, but sometimes, wearing certain colours of attire can come with favours. Your fashion decisions should be guided by prayer and the Holy Spirit. Ask God to help you make choices that glorify Him while allowing you to enjoy fashion appropriately. The word of God tells us to ask for wisdom if we lack it, and God will give it generously (James 1:5). Also, when you walk in the Spirit, you will not gratify the desires of the flesh (Galatians 5:16). Pray before shopping for clothes and ask for discernment. More so, read the Bible and seek wisdom on modesty and self-presentation. Avoid peer pressure and social media trends that contradict your values as a Christian. Don’t follow the crowd; allow the Spirit of God to guide you.
Conclusion
Balancing fashion trends with modesty as a woman requires wisdom and a heart focused on pleasing God. While it’s important to look presentable and stylish, our ultimate goal is to glorify God in everything we do—including how we dress (Colossians 3:17). By defining modesty based on God’s standards, being selective with trends, layering outfits, embracing elegant styles, prioritizing comfort, setting a godly example, and allowing Holy Spirit’s guidance, you can dress fashionably while honouring Christ. Remember, true beauty comes from a heart that seeks God first. When you dress in a way that reflects His love and righteousness, you not only look beautiful but also inspire others to do the same. I see God helping you and I see you becoming a light in this dark world, in Jesus’ name. Would love to hear from you!
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