Why Modesty?
Personal Journey
Growing up, I secretly wore things behind my parents' back and dreaded the topic of modesty. Compared to our culture, I thought my clothing choices were at least modest enough. In college, I continued to dress in a way that accentuated my figure. While there were times my conscience was pricked, I often ignored it.
In recent years, a deeper understanding of this virtue has transformed my perspective and softened my heart. I began to realize that modesty is more than a set of guidelines—it’s a beautiful way to live out my faith, honor my worth, and reflect God’s love to those around me.
Seeing my clothing choices not merely as an expression of my personality, but as an act of charity, makes the effort to dress modestly worthwhile each and every day.
Radiating God’s Love
Being created in God's image, we’re made to share His love and magnify His attributes of Goodness, Truth and Beauty in the way we present ourselves.
In striving for the virtue of modesty, we aim to honor and please God through our words, actions, and appearance. This includes growing in self-control and choosing to resist the pull toward vanity and external validation.
While it’s natural to want clothing that is flattering and expresses our individuality, we’re called to do so in a way that honors our dignity and treats our bodies as a dwelling place for our loving God. 
Unseen Effects
Social pressures and our own attachments can make dressing modestly feel challenging at times. And especially when we invest time and effort into exercising and caring for our bodies it can be easy to want to show off the results.
It was initially difficult for me to shift my wardrobe away from what I was so used to wearing—like shorts, tank tops, and tight clothing. However, this change became much easier once I understood the struggles others face.
The hypothalamus, the part of the brain responsible for sexual desire, is 2.5 times larger in men. This means their notice of the female body is an automatic, instinctive reaction. So, when a man sees or interacts with a woman wearing form-fitting clothing or showing a lot of skin, it affects him in ways women often don’t understand. Though the choice to entertain lustful thoughts comes afterward, the initial response is beyond their control.
Therefore, being considerate and thoughtful in how we dress is a powerful way to love others—by protecting their hearts and minds, and ultimately seeking their highest good: heaven!
A Higher Purpose
Beyond its impact on others, modest clothing reflects our inherent dignity and aligns our outward appearance with the virtues we strive to cultivate inwardly.
A virtuous woman’s beauty, reflected in her character, actions, and demeanor, shines brightly in a way that draws others closer to Christ.
All virtues are connected. As we work to embody each one and surrender our lives to God’s will, we fulfill our truest purpose: to know, love, and serve Him. In doing so, we’re able to experience lasting peace and grow into the best versions of ourselves. This leads to a flourishing life on Earth and a joyful union with Him for eternity.
Christ’s love for us is perfect and unending. He suffered beyond measure and gave His life for us. There is always more we can do in response to that incredible love!
With this in mind, let’s ask ourselves: How can I speak, act, and dress in ways that are most pleasing to God and charitable towards those around me?
For inspiring stories and practical tips for growing in virtue, visit our blog!