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.