Modesty is one way of practicing outgoing love towards others. A woman or man who cover their body appropriately is showing regard for their acquaintances by not tempting them to lust.

But appropriate modesty is not a uniform or a one-size-fits-all proposition. Practicing modesty does requires some discernment. For example, while stretchy exercise shorts and a sleeveless top may facilitate freedom of movement in a fitness class, such attire would be inappropriate for dinner in a restaurant or church services. Different styles of dress can be modest or immodest, depending on the occasion.

Check out the clothes you wear to make sure they are not too short or too tight and get adjustments made if need be. This sort of care applies not only to women, but to men as well. Tight trousers, extremely short or gaping shorts are just as immodest on men as women.

In order to determine whether your clothes would be considered modest and appropriate attire for a Christian it sometimes helps to get the opinion of someone you respect. It is not always easy to be aware of a loose neckline when you bend over or gaping shorts when you sit down. Sometimes a few minutes in front of the mirror will reveal these shortcomings with your outfit, but not always.

Modest attire is one of the easiest ways to show respect and consideration for others by helping them to obey God’s commandments and keep their thoughts pure.