A Letter From A Recovering Approval-Seeker

I grew up in a home where wearing sweatshirts and leggings to school was not allowed. On multiple occasions before walking out the door I would be sent back upstairs to change into something that covered my toosh. I remember putting up a fight and stomping my feet all the way up to make a point. Sometimes I would even hide a change of clothes in my bag and get dressed in the school bathroom.

Years later when I entered college I realized I could be in complete control of what I put on my body. I quickly learned that crop tops and bralettes were the going out uniform, so I had to run over to the nearest Urban Outfitters to make some tweaks to my wardrobe. Finally, I felt like I was fitting into the culture I always desired to be part of, or at least I thought I did.

After a few semesters, I realized I was never fully comfortable dressing in a way that exposed so much of myself. I felt embarrassed when I would see photos posted on Facebook, constantly untagging myself so my family couldn’t see me. The secrecy started to make me question if it was really worth it?

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12:2

This scripture was always somewhere in the back of my mind, but God gave me a new way of embodying it through my wardrobe experience. Looking back, I believe God was putting me through a test. Dressing to conform to the world was a temptation for me. When I dressed for the world, it opened my eyes to a lot of desirable things; “likes” on social media, attention from boys, approval from friends, just to name a few. But, these things didn’t fill me up the way God did and those “desirable” things left me feeling like the world wanted a piece of me that I wasn’t ready to give over. 

“She is clothed in strength and dignity, and laughs without fear of the future” Proverbs 31:25.

Through this ten year journey, I have chosen to glorify God with my body. Through Him, I know I am enough when I choose to dress modestly. It’s something I still struggle with as a young adult, but I’m now more equipped to take on this challenge knowing this is a way for me to honor God. So, when I get dressed for an event, work or even the gym, I ask myself, “who am I dressing for?” and if my answer is “other’s approval and attention”, I get back right to my closet and start over!

What challenge are you facing from society? How can you turn to God for strength to overcome the desire for acceptance and the peer pressures from the ways of the world?

Best Summer Looks

You can still look cute while dressing modestly! There are so many reasons to get dressed up for the summer, even if it's just in a casual setting. Don’t let those summer dresses go to waste in your closet. Here are some of my favorite looks for different occasions. 

Summer BBQ: Maxi dresses

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Night Out: Baby-doll dresses, square neck top & high waisted shorts, denim

Pool Party: ​Crochet details, high waisted skirts, tie dye

Lounging/ Errands: Easy jumpsuits and matching sets