Skirting the Issue

Over at 4 Real and on Magnum Opus there are frequent and fabulous discussions on modest and feminine dress. These discussions always seem to result in a re-evaluation and re-commitment for myself about skirts and dresses. I have been wearing skirts and dresses most of the time for three years.  It is second nature to me now.

From a purely practical standpoint, skirts just fit me better.  I'm tall and my hips are a little uneven, so nice fitting pants are hard to find.  I am more comfortable in skirts.  My husband likes me in them.  I have noticed that my children seem more respectful of me since I have been wearing them.  People seem a little more courteous in public as well.

For me, this is a conviction.  I really felt that God was asking this of me.  It's that simple and I could do no less than obey.

Wearing dresses or skirts has not always been easy.  I didn't have much money to change over my whole wardrobe so I made do with what I could find in thrift stores.   (Actually there is good stuff to had second hand if you look for it.)  Slowly, I have been able to find feminine, modest items that make it all work for me.

Full, long skirts work best as I am often down on the floor with little ones or cleaning.  Something sturdy, like denim, works well for outside work or hiking.  We camped this past sumer and I managed with skirts the whole time.  It wasn't really any more difficult than wearing them at home.

It's more complicated in winter.  You need tights, leggings and long underwear to  keep warm.  You need decent boots that look appropriate for everyday wear and look right with skirts.  (I'm still working on those boots.)

The other part that can be difficult is that you really do stand out sometimes.   I do not like to draw attention to myself.  I try to make sure I look appropriate to the occasion.  But so many people seem to have the mentality that skirts and dresses are only for special occasions, that I'm sure my attire gets noticed occasionally.  Or maybe it's those seven kids trailing behind me.

I know that skirts and dresses are not the only way to be feminine and modest, but it has been a blessing in my life. 

Helen has an excellent collection of posts on modest and feminine dress.  She says it all with such eloquence and graciousness. 

Comments

[Heidi Galbraith]

I think it's wonderful that you wear skirts and dresses-I couldn't imagine you in anything else! You said you've only been doing it the last three years-but you've been my Aunt a lot longer-and I think skirts suit you wonderfully!

(If I could solve the boot problem, I might join you!)

[Cheryl]

Thanks for sharing your experience wearing skirts. I just started wearing them -yesterday (lol) so it's encouraging hearing your story. I too don't like to draw attention to myself, I'd rather blend in with other people.

[dadwithnoisykids]

You won't catch me ever wearing a skirt!

[Rebecca]

I have been wearing skirts exclusively for the past few years although my husband like me in jeans. I wear them around the house with him sometimes. It is a sacrifice for me to wear them (the jeans).

[Our Magnum Opus]

It is really nice to know that others are wearing skirts too!

Dear Dadwithnoisykids, you have handsome legs, you could wear a kilt...

[leticia]

My girls and I participate in a homeschool co-op which is skirts only, and I do admire you ladies for only wearing skirts. I plan to join your ranks as soon as I can wean myself from pants. . . how DID you learn to clean in a skirt?!

[Lisbet]

Thank you for sharing this Bridget. I wore skirts exclusively for about 2 years, then slid back into jeans. I have been in skirts again for the past 6 months. My resolve is much firmer this time around.

[Suzanne]

I've been wearing skirts/dresses-only for about 2 years now too. Good post.