What is the deal with red clothing? I’ve heard that red clothing is forbidden for women to wear because it’s immodest. Some recent studies confirmed that men are more attracted to women in red. So that means it’s prohibited, right? In some cultures or communities, red can be seen as bold or attention-grabbing, which may contrast with traditional views of modesty.
Some women prefer neutral tones, so red might feel a bit outside of their comfort zone. Experimenting with muted or deeper shades of red like burgundy or maroon, can feel more understated while still adding some warmth to wardrobe.
Red is sometimes viewed as not modest because of its associations with boldness, attention-seeking, and sensuality. Here are some reasons why red might be considered brazen or too forward in certain contexts:
Psychological Impact: Red is a highly stimulating color that is often linked to passion, energy, and assertiveness.
Cultural Perceptions: In some cultures and religious traditions, red has specific meanings related to power, sexuality, or celebration such as in China. For somber occasions, red may feel inappropriate for situations requiring restraint. Because blood is red, the color is often associated with horror!
Historical Associations: Historically, red has often been worn by figures seeking visibility or authority, such as nobility or entertainers. A red dress was sometime seen as provocative or scandalous like Scarlet’s red dress in Gone with Wind! Red’s “reputation” may clash with the notion of modest dressing, which prioritizes not standing out.
Gendered Symbolism: Red is sometimes associated with femininity and romantic allure, particularly in fashion and media, where it is often linked to confidence or seduction. This symbolism can make red seem too bold especially in conservative or religious settings.
Despite these perceptions, color is subjective, and red can still be worn depending on the style, fit, and personal or community standards. Here’s how red can be subtlety styled:
Muted Shades of Red: Opting for deeper or softer shades like burgundy, wine, or aubergine can tone down the boldness of red while still incorporating it into a modern wardrobe. These shades have a more subdued feel and a more calming aesthetic.
Balanced Styling: Pairing neutral tones like gray, black, or beige can balance the boldness of red. For example, a red top with a long skirt in a neutral color can create a more understated, modest look.
Focusing on Fit: Wearing loose-fitting red clothing rather than tight or revealing garments can ensure that the focus remains on the style of the outfit, rather than the attention-grabbing nature of the color.
Red can be worn as an accent color in accessories instead a clothing item. Jewelry, scarves, belts and shoes in red can be tasteful alternative options and make a great fashion statement.
Would you ever consider incorporating red into your wardrobe, or is it too far from your aesthetic?
Starting to stress about what to get for the modest women in your life? Look no farther than our guide to holiday gifts for her. Choosing the best holiday gift for the modest woman involves selecting items that fit her style while respecting her preference for modesty. Here, you’ll find 10 great holiday gift ideas for just about anyone on your list!
Maxi Dress: Select a maxi dress with a modest neckline, long sleeves, and a suitable length. Look for elegant fabrics and classic colors.
Long Cardigan or Duster: A long cardigan or duster in a neutral shade can be a versatile layering piece. It complements a range of outfits while providing coverage and warmth.
Jumpsuit: Look for a jumpsuit with a modest tailored cut, such as a higher neckline and longer pants. Jumpsuits can be both fashionable and practical.
Flowy Blouse or Tunic: Choose a flowy blouse or tunic with a crew neckline and three quarter sleeves. Neutral colors or subtle patterns can enhance its versatility.
Modest Swimwear: Consider a swimsuit, such as a swim dress or a swim skirt with attached shorts or leggings. Look for simple designs in her preferred colors.
Classic Turtleneck: A classic turtleneck in a comfortable knit is a versatile and cozy choice for colder seasons. It can be paired with skirts or trousers.
Activewear: If she loves to exercise look for modest activewear with stretch fabrics. This could include long-sleeve tops, loose-fitting pants, and a sports head covering.
Loungewear Set: Everyone loves comfy stylish loungewear! A pajama set with long sleeves and a fluffy warm robe can be great for relaxing at home.
Elegant Jacket or Cardigan: A sophisticated cardigan or jacket in a lush fabric or faux leather can be a chic way to add warmth and interest to her outfits.
When selecting clothing, pay attention to her size, preferred colors, and style preferences. By choosing classic, timeless pieces you can ensure the gift will be both thoughtful and practical for her modest wardrobe. What is the best holiday clothing gift you ever received?
Finding creative solutions for modesty can be a bit of a challenge. These key items extend the usability of your wardrobe across different seasons and occasions. Wearing modest clothing can help women feel more comfortable, confident and secure.
NECK
Mock Neck and Turtlenecks: These tops provide full coverage and can be paired with various outfits.
High-Neck Blouses: Elegant blouses with high necklines can be both stylish and modest.
Dickies or detachable shirtfront or a small fabric insert worn to fill in the neckline. A dickey is a way to add versatility to a look, without adding bulk.
Statement Necklaces: Layered necklaces can cover the collar bone a while adding a stylish touch.
CLEAVAGE
Mock Tee-shirt collars or Sleeveless Crop Tops. Mock collars and sleeveless crops can give a polished and professional look without being too formal. They provide a layering without bulk.
Camisoles or Tank Tops: Wear a camisole or tank top underneath your low-cut top. Choose opaque fabrics and higher necklines for fuller coverage.
Scarves: Lightweight scarves can be draped or tied around the neck to cover the cleavage. Scarves not only cover cleavage, there a great way to add a pop of color and a bit of drama.
ARMS
Three Quarter sleeve Layering Cropped Tops: Layering a cropped top over a longer top can provide coverage while adding a trendy element to the outfit.
Detachable Sleeves: Sleeves that can be attached to sleeveless tops or dresses as needed.
Boleros or Shrugs: Short jackets that cover the arms and can be worn over sleeveless dresses and tops. Covering the arms offers protection from the sun and can add depth and interest to an outfit.
TUMMY
Bodysuits: A bodysuit with a modest neckline can provide full tummy coverage under skirts pants or sleeveless dresses. Bodysuits don’t “ride up” and provide a smooth or seamless finish.
Peeking Underneath: Let a tube top or hippie peek out from underneath a cropped sweater or top, paired with a high-waisted skirt. This adds an extra layer of modesty and interest to your outfit.
Layering Shell Top Layering tops can help make sheer or cropped garments suitable for more conservative gatherings or professional settings.
LEGS:
Layering Dresses: You can pair shorter dresses with a longer layering dress underneath. Love that sleeveless tunic you saw online? Pair it with a layering dress for a modest complete outfit.
Capri or Leggings: Wear leggings or tights under skirts and dresses for added coverage. Choose opaque, patterned, or textured styles to add interest.
Layering Slips: These innovative slips can be found online and are essentially a fabric layer attached to the bottom of a regular slip.
Choosing modest clothing with these tips in mind can help enhance your natural shape and create a balanced, polished appearance. By incorporating these creative solutions into your wardrobe, you can achieve the desired coverage while maintaining a stylish and personalized look.
How to Teach Girls to Dress Modestly!Teaching girls make clothing choices that are respectful, appropriate for various settings, and aligned with societal values in today’s world is not always easy. We want to prepare our children for a world where external appearances can influence perceptions. Here are some strategies for teaching girls to dress modestly:
Start Early: Begin teaching girls about appropriate clothing choices from a young age. Even children as young as three can understand simple concepts as they learn to dress themselves.
Explain the Reasons: Help girls understand why the way we dressis important and how it contributes to their self-respect, dignity, and relationships with others. Talk about how your religious beliefs, culture, environment and values. It is crucial in navigating these discussions to foster open and honest communication.
Set Clear Guidelines: Establish clear guidelines for appropriate attire in different settings, such as at home, school, religious gatherings, and social events. Offer them guidance on selecting clothing items that provide adequate coverage and are respectful of their bodies.
Encourage Self-Expression: Allow girls to express their personal style and preferences within the boundaries of what’s acceptable. Encourage them to choose clothing that reflects their individuality while also respecting cultural norms and social expectations.
Teach Dress Codes: Familiarize girls with dress codes at their school, religious institution, or other places they frequent. Help them understand the reasons behind these dress codes and how to comply with them while still expressing some individuality.
Provide Feedback: Offer constructive feedback and guidance when girls are selecting clothing or putting together outfits. Encourage them to consider factors such as fit, length, shirt necklines, and overall coverage when making clothing choices.
Be a Role Model: Lead by example with your own clothing choices and behavior. Girls often learn from their mothers. Teach your daughters to dress with confidence and self-assurance.
Discuss Media Influence: Talk to girls about the influence of media, fashion trends, and peer pressure on clothing choices. Help them develop critical thinking skills to navigate messages about beauty, body image and self-worth in the media.
By incorporating these strategies into your parenting approach, you can help girls develop a sense of modesty and make respectful clothing choices that reflect their values, individuality, and self-respect.
Dressing modestly isn’t always easy, especially when there are so many immodest clothing options to choose from and fewer clothing items that will actually cover you up. Luckily, modest fashion can be achievable if you know what basics you need and how to build upon them. Here at Kosher Casual, we have all of these basics and more!
With a layering shirt, you can transform practically any sleeveless dress or top into a piece of modest clothing that you’ll feel comfortable wearing. A layering shirt can also be the base for fabulous accessories! Owning several in a range of colors ensures that you’ll be able to complete an outfit without having to think too hard about it.
Pencil skirts are a modest basic that can be worn all year round. During the warmer months of the year, this basic can be dressed up with a pair of heels or made completely casual with your favorite pair of comfortable sneakers. In the fall and winter throw on some cozy tights and a pair of boots and you’re ready to go!
Perhaps the ultimate modest basic, long skirts (or maxi skirts) should be in every modest woman’s closet. A black maxi skirt can work with practically any top, and it’s comfortable enough for most activities. Or switch things up a bit and choose a bold color maxi to wear with a neutral colored top. However you choose to do it, we know you’ll look great!
A tunic is an essential basic for day-to-day wear. Paired with a pencil skirt, you’re guaranteed a put-together look that you can take from the store to the office, and it will keep you going into the evening without having to change your clothes! Tunics offer a great look without being clingy and the added length provides great coverage of the areas you’d prefer to keep hidden ;).
If you really want to keep your outfit simple, a t-shirt dress is the way to go. This basic is an entire outfit in one piece! All you have to worry about is deciding on the shoes that are most appropriate for your plans. A knee-length dress can be cool and comfortable during the summer, but paired with a cardigan, leggings, and boots, it will also keep you warm in the winter.
Adding the basics to your modest wardrobe is the best way to ensure that you’re comfortable and covered every day. Check out our best sellers at Kosher Casual.
Before these days of modest fashion, modest dressers found lots of obstacles to dressing modestly and fashionably. Today, there are so many great clothing lines that either choose to make modest clothing by design or create modest items in
their general collection that coincidentally flow with the fashion trends. These trends have helped the modest modern dresser, but there will always be certain issues the modern, modest woman will have to deal with.
Here are some of our most annoying or funny challenges that we find in dressing modestly. We would love to hear some of your daily hurdles in dressing modestly!
