Why Modesty?

A note from Claire

Personal Journey

Growing up, I secretly wore things behind my parents' back and dreaded the topic of modesty. In college, I dressed to fit in and wanted to look as attractive as I could by accentuating my figure. Compared to our culture, I thought my clothing choices were at least modest enough.

In recent years, gaining 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 way to live out my faith, respect my worth, honor God, and point others to Him.

Viewing my clothing choices not merely as an expression of my personality or preferences—but as an act of love—has made this effort worthwhile every day.

Radiating God’s Love

Being created in God's image, we’re made to reflect 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 seek to honor and please God through our words, actions, and appearance. This includes controlling our impulses toward vanity and the desire for attention and validation.

While it’s natural to want clothing that’s flattering and expresses our unique selves, we’re called to do so in a way that is considerate of others and honors our dignity—treating our bodies as a dwelling place for God.

A virtuous woman's beauty—reflected in her actions, demeanor, and character—magnifies Christ and draws others to Him.

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 shorts, tight pants and skirts, clingy shirts, and tank tops. However, this became much easier once I understood the struggle men face due to their biological responses.

The hypothalamus, the part of the brain involved in sexual desire, is 2.5 times larger in men. 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. While his choice to entertain lustful thoughts comes afterwards, the initial, involuntary response has already occurred.

Because of this, revealing clothing can directly tempt men to sin, even if they don’t want to. Therefore, dressing with consideration for others is truly an act of charity, a tangible way to show love for those around us by seeking their highest good: heaven.

Living With Purpose

Beyond its impact on others, modest clothing reflects our inherent dignity and aligns our outward appearance with the virtues we cultivate inwardly.

All virtues are interconnected. By striving for each and surrendering our daily lives to God, we fulfill our true purpose: to know, love, and serve Him. In doing so, we're filled with peace and become the best versions of ourselves. This leads to a flourishing life on Earth and a joyful union with Him for eternity.

Ultimately, Christ’s love for us is perfect and infinite. He suffered beyond our comprehension and gave His life to redeem us. There is always more we can do for love of Him.

With this in mind, let us ask ourselves: How can I speak, act, and dress in ways that are most pleasing to God and reflect His love to others?

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