Modesty in Motion

Everyone has their own idea of what it means to dress modestly. For some, it's tied to religion or tradition; for others, it’s about personal comfort or values. I’ve learned that modesty is about more than clothing—it's about intention and identity.

Growing up, I absorbed messages that modesty was about covering up to avoid being objectified. I wore oversized clothes to protect myself, believing it was my responsibility to help men avoid lust. This mindset brought shame and guilt into how I viewed my body.

Everything began to shift when I started traveling. In African villages, women often went topless, not for attention, but out of necessity or cultural norms. Yet in those same places, showing your ankles was considered inappropriate. In India, midriffs are normal; in Europe, modesty varies by region. In Istanbul, I saw modest fashion as elegant and empowering. These experiences showed me that modesty looks different everywhere—and it’s not just about skin.

As an American woman raised Christian, I wrestled with wanting to be seen as attractive while not being reduced to my body. Now, I’m learning to wear what makes me feel confident, comfortable, and respectful of the space I’m in. Sometimes that’s a bikini with girlfriends, other times it’s long loose and baggy clothing.

To me, modesty is a mindset: Are you dressing for validation and expression or respectful of yourself and those around you? Attention isn’t inherently bad—it’s the kind we seek that matters. I want people to notice my heart, not just my body.

Modesty isn’t about hiding—it’s about showing up as your full self, without shame.