I’m in the “modest enough” rank. Modest enough for Mass, that is.
I have several thoughts on modesty…
First, there is an inherent injustice to the dignity of persons in fashions. Women are expected to bare as much flesh as possible, but men are allowed to both stay covered and be comfortable. (Think about figure skaters. Ever seen Brian Boitano in a skin-tight, skimpy top and tights?) I think it’s just another aspect of the objectification of women.
2.) A man doesn’t have to wear a speedo (yuck!) for me to be able to “undress him with my eyes.” But I’m blessed; I’ve been married to “Mr. Right” for 10 happy years, and “custody of the eyes” is easy for me.
In the case of women, though… that fashion for showing off one’s underwear does distract me, easily! (As well as the display of love handles, etc.)
It’s not sexual. I have a spirit of destructive criticism which is all too easily awakened; also a spirit of compassion whose voice is a **lot **quieter. The first says, “She’s dressed like a slut! How dare she come to Mass like that!?!” The second says, “Oh, my dear, I’m sorry you have bought in to the fashions that put your body on display like a piece of meat.” … I’m able to keep my mouth shut on the criticism, but I haven’t yet been able to voice the other one.
3.) Some girls in my parish have amended the “show your underwear” fashion by wearing a pristine white “a-shirt,” form-fitting but not skin-tight, over their underwear and under the revealing shirt. I applaud this. I might not wear that myself (ROFL - fat chance! I’m 55 and obese), but it does say, “I can be fashionable without revealing my bra or breasts.”
Also, our ideas of modesty change with the environment. I’m thinking of the beach. A modest two-piece bathing suit that completely covers the “naughty bits” and a little beyond would be OK at the beach, but not at a restaurant.
Last, but not least, there are two points of view about how to dress for Mass. One is to honor our Lord by wearing our best. The other is to wear what’s comfortable, because we’re with family, so to speak.
Your sister in Christ,
Ruthie