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Staying Modest

One of many tough trials for young women today is staying modest in an immodest world. Fashion often dictates what’s cool and what’s not, mostly taking the ‘skin is in’ route. Just when you thought something was safe to wear, designers have expertly found a way to expose what should remain hidden.

Fortunately for those of you today who’d rather take a reasonable road when it comes to clothes, there are a few simple moves to help keep you modest, yet fashionable.

First find a full-length mirror, either in your home or at the store. Next, think back to Primary when you’re full of wiggles and your music leader just can’t take it any more. Which song is usually first on everyone’s list?

“Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes.”

Head

Start by placing your hands on your head. Does your shirt hike up a little more than necessary? Check your sleeves. Do they cover the area around your arms?

Shoulders

Next put your hands on your shoulders. Is your arm area still properly covered? Notice this move stretches the shirt across your chest. Are things too tight? Are buttons threatening to pop off?

Knees

Now it’s time to touch your knees. In this glorious position rotate a full 360 degrees. You might be surprised to find your shirt falling forward in front, exposing a little more than necessary, and a not-so-lovely gap between the hem of your shirt and pants in back.

Toes

Whether you crouch down to touch them or impressively manage to reach your toes while knees are locked, you might find things gaping in places you’d never expected. If you’re wearing a skirt, how high does it hike at the hemline? If you’re wearing pants, check to see if you’re still sufficiently covered at the belt. Once again look for too much exposure in front.

Are you surprised by just how revealing your clothes are? Or did you manage to pass the test with flying colors? The good news is even if all your clothes didn’t qualify, there are little ways to make them work. No need to start a whole new wardrobe.

Once you’ve found what works and what doesn’t, improve on your look to put together the most trendy outfits possible. Layers are still very in, and are a fantastic way to cover up the bare spots without completely emptying out your bank account. There are also many places now that specialize in modest clothing.

So the next time you’re shopping for the newest and coolest, don’t forget to check things from head to toe so you won’t be left with any unexpected surprises.

Permalink 10/10/07 04:14:31 pm by Laurie Walker, on Teens & Seminary in Categories: Discovering Yourself , 3 comments »

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3 comments

Comment from: Traci Abramson [Visitor] Email · http://www.tracihunterabramson.com
Remember the days when shirts and dresses actually had sleeves? I'm already dreading prom dress shopping and it's only October!
10/15/07 @ 06:20
Comment from: Moira Tyrell [Member] Email
Your post reminded me of what my teenage son said to me a few days ago when I picked him up from school. He was upset at his Principal for picking on a female friend for wearing too many clothes (at least that was the story). The part of the conversation that I appreciated as a mom was his comment about why the principal didn't pick on any of the other girls who were wearing short short skirts up to here (he demonstrated) and see-through blouses that allows every kid in school to see everything (his words). In a disgusted tone he said to me "have these girls never heard of modest?" I had to stifle a giggle, and tried to use this teachable moment but inside my heart I was singing because apparently he is paying attention to us and to his Youth and Church leaders.
10/24/07 @ 22:38
Comment from: Laurie Walker [Member] Email
I love that your son was so passionate about it! Can you imagine picking on someone for TOO many clothes? It's so sad.

I'd be singing too. Good job, Mom.
10/24/07 @ 22:48

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