What is modestyle?

"Likewise, I want women to adorn themselves with proper clothing, modestly and discreetly, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly garments; but rather by means of good works, as befits women making a claim to godliness."

--1 Timothy 2:9, 10

modestyle=modest style

I have an interest in fashion and style, and I also believe the Bible is truth. I don't think the two are mutually exclusive. Fashion as a form of art, like music or literature, can be used to glorify God and reflect His creativity. I hope to explore elements of style while incorporating the principle of spiritual, physical, and financial modesty.

We must examine the reasons we wear what we wear. Is it to show off our material possessions? That could inspire covetousness in others... Is it to show off our bodies? That could inspire lust. "Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own? For you have been bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body." (1 Cor. 6:19, 20)

To me, modesty means this:

1. Wearing clothing that does not inspire lust in others. Thankfully, my husband is a good judge of this. If a skirt is too short or a pair of pants is too tight, I'll ask him what he thinks. If I look "too good" it's time for a change! Of course, this principle is important for him too--he is the only one he wants to see me that way.
2. Living and spending within my means. I plan to write more about the financial aspects of fashion later, but I want to mention the need for a budget. Tithing first, necessities second, then spending. I love being thrifty because it breeds creativity.
3. The focus is not on me but on Christ. Of course, I am a "work in progress" as they say, but I want the first thing people think of me to be my heart for God. It's okay to look nice, but if I take too much pride in my appearance or call attention to my looks or possessions over my character and actions, I need to change.