Baring skin has its time and place in every woman’s life, at some stage or another. Whether it’s the very first “mini” you dared to put on and waltz around in, a halter top for your high school dance, or your very first two-piece bikini, we have all had some association and experience with the “less is more” approach with clothing.
However, the not-so-recent rise of social media and its accompanying obsession with sexualizing almost everything in sight – I mean, women are getting ready from their skivvies up for our viewing and styling benefit – causes pause and reflection on what we can do to take things in the opposite direction.
Young women are on the internet by the droves, and the numbers are growing by the day. I’m not sure about most of you, but teenage girls in my family do exist, and I often wonder what influences their fashion choices.
Interaction with the opposite sex?
Cute outfits for sunny vacation photos?
Influencer aspirations?
The list goes on, and it happens to be one vastly different from what many of us millennials grew up with (all except the interaction with the opposite sex).
That being said, there are also several other non-cultural and societal reasons for reintroducing modest fashion today. Keep reading for the list below and tips for how to begin making the change if you so desire.
WHY AND HOW TO REVIVE MODEST FASHION
It’s a mindset shift.
Deciding to dress more modestly represents a change in the manner of thinking and, subsequently, behaving.
Not having to worry about what every physical feature looks like frees up a lot of mental space for other things. It may come with age since baring skin in youth has a lot to do with the overall dating and mating needs of that period. But it’s a fabulous feeling not to have to lead with your feminine attributes. It becomes a choice to be used at one’s discretion.
It’s versatile.
If curated correctly, the right modest fashion wardrobe can be used year-round for most occasions and can adapt to most women’s moods.
Pick the right neutrals and fabrics, review multiple brands, and avoid making hasty decisions; you will undoubtedly end up with the demure dressing lineup of your dreams.
It can be both cute and sophisticated at the same time.
It’s low pressure.
Sometimes, the sheer idea of baring body and skin causes stress on its own accord. Modest fashion, even if it is form-fitting from time to time, somehow still allows for some mental relief from what every angle may look like.
HOW TO MAKE THE STYLE CHANGE
Please don’t force it.
It seems simple, but it’s certainly key. Don’t make the change unless you’re truly ready. This post hasn’t been written to shame or degrade expressing yourself as you so desire at any point in your life. It’s simply to offer support and guidance to those who are ready.
It’s more about a mindset shift. One that shouldn’t be rushed unless it truly aligns with your overall lifestyle approach.
Stick with looks you genuinely like.
Whether you restrict the modesty to your end-of-day nighttime attire, or if you do so at your 9 to 5, make it work for you. Any personally aligned style choice takes time and thoughtful curation.
Do your research, decide on your budget and take your time.
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Thank you for taking the time to read this article. I hope what you have read has somehow educated, informed, or inspired you.
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