If you've been looking around at the dresses carried in stores these days, you have probably given up on finding one that is both cute and modest. Not only do you have to deal with the usual issue of low-cut and skimpy bodices, but it seems that everything is made super short these days, often barely the length of a mini skirt. And yet, some of these designs are cute and do have pretty details that would make a super sweet ensemble... if only. If only it weren't so low. Or short. Or strapless. Or sheer. If only. If only. If only.
But there is good news for those of us who want to find wearable items at our local shopping mall. Layering has become a real phenomenon and provides lots of options for those of us who have chosen to dress modestly. Browsing some cute and quirky dresses online gave me some modesty ideas to share. Hopefully they'll inspire you and help to stretch your wardrobe in a modest and frugal way.
Too low? Wear a tank top or camisole underneath the dress for a higher neckline. Camisoles are carried at pretty much every store out there and often have fun style details like lace edging or beading. I pick up a few in neutrals and fun colors every year. If you are looking for something with a little bit more coverage or really want to fill in a neckline, try a tank top like this one.
This first design would look fabulous with a bright colored cami underneath it, making it more than just a little grey "rain-cloud" dress. The second one might also need to be filled in, and would probably benefit from a neutral piece, in a cream or peach shade.
Too skimpy? Sometimes we find a sweet and feminine design, like the two shown above, but it just needs some more fabric up top. A great way to use the same pieces and keep everything modest is wearing vintage-y little sundresses over a close fitting, long-sleeved tee. Check out this fabulous one. I find a slight scoop neckline is much more flattering than a high-cut crew neck.
These two dresses would look equally chic over a simple short-sleeved tee. Perfect for summer. The pink one makes me think of edwardian high teas and the cream design... it's just the thing for a fairy ball. :)
Too short? You've probably noticed that all of the pieces shown here are too short. Like I said earlier, most dresses these days are barely long enough to be a top. And that's the key here. Make the dress a top.
Depending on the style of the dress you choose (the pink one here would be great) it can look absolutely sweet with a simple, fitted skirt beneath it. (Don't choose one that's too full or long - it will look "heavy" and weighed down.) And a nice pair of dress pants or jeans always looks fabulous under a long tunic top (like this gorgeous black and white one). So why not buy that cute little dress you found and layer it over your favorite jeans? Or leggings, as shown in the first photo in this post, if that fits your style.
Remember, these layering principles can also work really well with cute strapless designs like the two above. The dress shown in the very first image of this post demonstrates it perfectly. A cute, lightweight summer blouse is the perfect base for working a dress that's sweet (except for its strapless-ness) into your wardrobe.
So... what is your opinion? Do you agree that we can make pieces that wouldn't-otherwise-be-modest totally acceptable with a bit of layering? Or do you think we should stay away from "mini" dresses entirely? I am interested in hearing your thoughts...
I hope you have a lovely weekend. May God bless you. *hugs*
First Image: yesstyle.com / Dresses: Republic.co.uk
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