Modesty for special occasions

In the past couple of years I have seen an increasing trend among Christian young ladies to think that when summer rolls around or we prepare for a special event (such as prom, weddings, a recognition party) that somehow our standards for modesty seem to adjust, and usually not for the better. While this topic is often greeted with groans in our hearts because we get tired of hearing it or even more so because we just don't want to hear about it for fear that it may bother our conscience, it is an important and necessary issue that cannot be neglected. I would strongly encourage you to listen to the following message and read the post linked to below. When you are shopping for your new bathing suit, that fun spring party, or choosing a dress for the next wedding you will most certainly be invited to this summer...please remember that the way in which you present your body before others speaks volumes about your care and concern for the body of Christ. How different is your approach in preparing for such events than women of the world? Could we tell by looking at your manner of dress, as well as demeanor, that you are not of this world, and that you have a higher and entirely holy perspective on the message that is sent? Are you guarding the eyes and most importantly the hearts of your brothers in Christ, particularly when you are dressing for an occasion when you most certainly will be the center of attention? Consider how showing certain parts of your body that are not normally seen can be very enticing to a man, whether you think so or not. I read some results from a poll that the guys at Rebelution took of a number of young Christian single men, and they all said, almost without exception that the bare neck and shoulders of a woman were one of the most visually stimulating parts of her figure. Young men are accountable for the sin of their own lust, be we are commanded in Scripture to honor them, love them, and look out for their best interests. Yes, it is more challenging and probably takes more time to find modest attire. But that is not a reason to give up and sacrifice our modesty. We often think it is elegant to wear certain types of attire or that a special occasion justifies wearing something we may not normally wear...but where do we find any biblical support for such thinking? Address your heart, prayerfully consider your motives, prefer others over yourself. This is the biblical woman's attitude toward her dress in all times and places. "Modesty is humility expressed in dress" (Janelle Bradshaw). "Is your intent to show the grace and beauty of godly womanhood?...It is our hearts that dictate our appearance." (John MacArthur)

http://girltalk.blogs.com/girltalk/2006/04/a_pastors_plea.html

http://www.covlife.org/resources/741764-A_Modest_Heart