"How does a woman discern the sometimes fine line between
proper dress and dressing to be the center of attention? The
answer starts in the intent of the heart. A woman should examine her motives and goals for the way she dresses. Is her intent to show the grace and beauty of womanhood? Is it to reveal a humble heart devoted to worshipping God? Or is it to call attention to herself and flaunt her beauty? Or worse, to attempt to lure men sexually? A woman who focuses on worshipping God will consider carefully how she is dressed, because her heart will dictate her wardrobe and appearance." John MacArthur
What statement do my clothes make about my heart? In choosing what clothes to wear today, whose attention do I
desire and whose approval do I crave? Am I seeking to please God or impress others? Is what I wear consistent with biblical values of modesty, self-control and respectable apparel, or does my dress reveal an inordinate identification and fascination with sinful cultural values? Who am I trying to identify with through my dress? Is the Word of God my standard or is it the latest fashion? Have I solicited the evaluation of other godly individuals regarding my wardrobe?
Does my clothing reveal an allegiance to the gospel or is
there any contradiction between my profession of faith and
my practice of godliness?
So, I’m ready to leave the house, but I still have to do a modesty check. What are some things I should look for as
I stand in front of my mirror?
When I am wearing a loose-fitting blouse or scoop-neck, can I
see anything when I lean over? If so, I need change my top.
A word on purse straps: How could a purse possibly be a
modesty concern? When you’re wearing the strap across your
chest. Regardless of the shirt you’ve got on this accentuates
your chest and creates a temptation for men.
If I am wearing a button-down top, I need to turn sideways and move around to see if there are any gaping holes that expose my chest. If there are, I’ve got to grab the sewing box and pin between the buttons.
Wearing sleeveless should be ruled out. The reason is that when we move around can others can see my bra?
We should never wear a spaghetti-strap, halter-top or see-through blouse? Not even pins will fix this problem! Most guys find these very unhelpful. It’s time to go back to the closet.
Can I see the lace or seam of my bra through my shirt? In this
case, seamless bras are a better option.
One final shirt check: Does it reveal any part of my cleavage?
Does my midriff show when I raise my hands above my head?
Is my shirt just plain too tight? If the answer is "yes" to any
one of these questions, then I need to change my outfit
Does my midriff (or underwear) show when I bend over or
lift my hands? If so, is it because my skirt or my pants are
too low? Either my shirt needs to be longer or I need to find
a skirt or pants that sit higher.
I also have to turn around to see if what I’m wearing is too
tight around my derriere, or if the outline of my underwear
shows. If so, I know what I have to do!
About shorts – I can’t just check them standing up. They should not draw attention to our sexuality. I suggest that they come to knee length
The "sit-down" check applies to my skirt or dress as well. When I sit down my dress needs to cover my knees.
And I must remember to keep my skirt pulled down and my
knees together when I’m seated.
And speaking of skirts, watch out for those slits! Does it
reveal too much when I walk? Pins are also helpful here.
Before I leave, I need to give my skirt a "sunlight check." Is
it see-through? If so, I need a slip which is almost always today.
Finally, I must remember to do this modesty check with my
shoes on. High-heels make my dress or skirt appear shorter.
And don’t forget – this all applies to formal wear as well.
A note on swimwear There is no such thing as store bought swimwear that is modest. My suggestion is to take a pair of not too tight jeans and cut them off around or just above the knees. For a top wear a shirt that is not exposing the body and yet is comfortable. Under the clothing wear a full length swim suit rather then just underwear. Remember as women we need to take care not to clothe ourselves in a manner that causes our brothers to be tempted or bring dishonor on our Lord. These guys have a big battle to fight. Sometimes we will have to deny selves to follow Christ.
"…Women should adorn themselves in respectable
apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with
braided hair and gold or pearls or costly attire, but
with what is proper for women who profess godliness-
with good works."
1 Timothy 2:9-10
Try the links for examples;
http://pureinheart.hypermart.net/
http://www.modestapparelusa.com/
http://www.modestclothing.bizhosting.com/
http://www.liliesapparel.com/
http://www.modestpatterns.com/
Modest swim ware;
http://www.wholesomewear.com/
http://www.ladiesagainstfeminism.com/ar ... x_16.shtml