Every summer, we see that age-old debate pop up about what\’s considered modest enough to wear. But hey, let\’s chat about modesty without getting too serious or judgmental!
Let\’s be clear on what modesty is not. It is not about being shrouded from head to toe, barely able to catch a breath. Nor does it mean donning frumpy, unflattering, and unattractive clothing.
So what is modesty?
Modesty is a concept that generally refers to the quality of being humble, unpretentious, and avoiding excessive display or self-promotion, especially concerning one\’s appearance, actions, or achievements. It often involves a sense of propriety, decency, and respect for cultural norms or personal beliefs. Modesty can be expressed in various ways, such as in clothing choices, behavior, speech, and attitude.
We must ask are the following when approaching this conversation:
What does it mean to be modest?
How can one express modesty through their style?
What is the heart posture or intent of this person?
One of the most prominent instances of this perennial debate occurred during the 2013 BET Awards, when Meagan Good and her Blue Dress. presented the Bet Gospel Award, sparking quite the commotion. Critics questioned the appropriateness of Meagan Good\’s outfit for a \”preacher\’s wife\” and deemed it unfitting for presenting the category.
Yet, I venture to pose a challenge and ask: What was the intention behind her choice of dress? What was the context? Admittedly, the attire may have been somewhat revealing, but was it genuinely immodest on her part?
Consider the context: Megan Good, an actress or entertainer, collaborating with a stylist to select her wardrobe for an awards show. It also turns out that the gospel category wasn\’t her initial role to present. Would she have opted for a different outfit had she had more time? We’ll never know.
What I do know is we should manage our tendency to judge based on outward appearances and instead shift our focus to the essence of the matter.
It\’s crucial to recognize that everyone\’s path to modesty is unique. We all have our own journey to modesty, and what might be modest for one person might not be the same for someone else.
A valuable gauge to ensure one is dressing modestly is to ask: Would you be at ease wearing this attire in the presence of Jesus? I certainly know what I wouldn\’t wear.
Modesty, my friend, is all about striking that perfect balance in how we present ourselves to the world. It\’s not about going overboard and covering up every inch of skin until we can barely breathe, nor is it about sporting unflattering, baggy clothes that hide our true selves. Instead, modesty is the art of being humble and respectful in our appearance, actions, and attitude.
It\’s about showing a genuine sense of self-worth without seeking excessive attention or praise from others. Modesty is a beautiful quality that involves being comfortable in our own skin while valuing the dignity and worth of those around us.
Let\’s remember that discussions on modesty should be balanced and considerate of the individual\’s intent and context. Jumping to conclusions based solely on appearances might lead us astray from addressing the true essence of the matter.
So, let\’s rock our unique styles with grace and remember that true modesty shines from within, radiating kindness, and respect to everyone we encounter.
The Collection
Ben Amun recently launched their Liza collection, inspired by “Liza with a Z” Minelli herself. Evoking mid-century Hollywood elegance and show-stopping charm the collection features timeless gold and silver pieces that elevate any look.
Here I’m wearing the Sharon Earrings and Chery necklace.
History
Ben-Amun jewelry is handcrafted in New York City, the brand name originates from Egyptian royalty. Isaac Manevitz, the founder of Ben-Amun, was born in Egypt. His jewelry collection combines the name of his oldest son and the king of Egypt, Tutankhamun.
Ben-Amun jewelry includes sculpted pieces made of high-quality materials. Manevitz\’s designs have been spotted on several celebrities and icons. Most notably, First Lady Jackie Kennedy Onassis has close ties to the brand. Timeless styles inspire Ben-Amun jewelry while maintaining a modern feel.
Craftsmanship
What I love about Ben Amun is that all the jewelry is handcrafted by a team of skilled artisans.
Their handcrafted pieces feature the highest quality of materials such as 24K gold, Majorca pearls, and Czech glass stones.
In the world of celebrities and influencers, style is more than just a fashion statement; it serves as a powerful signifier of personal expression and identity. Angela Renee White, famously known as Blac Chyna, and Sophia Richie, both icons in their own right, have undergone pivotal moments in their lives that caused them to transform their styles, showcasing how clothing choices can be a reflection of one’s inner journey and growth.
For Angela Renee White, the shift in her style can be traced back to her tumultuous relationships and highly publicized personal life. As a former exotic dancer, she faced harsh judgments and societal scrutiny. However, in the face of adversity, Angela used fashion as a medium to assert her individuality and break free from stereotypes. After a spiritual awakening, her style evolved from provocative and ostentatious to more refined and elegant. This transformation symbolized her journey of self-discovery and empowerment, showcasing that style can be a manifestation of inner strength and resilience.
Similarly, Sophia Richie, daughter of music legend Lionel Richie, also experienced her own metamorphosis in style. Initially known for her chic and sophisticated yet somewhat reserved fashion choices, Sophia’s style shift came about as she navigated her path to adulthood and independence. As she distanced herself from her famous father’s shadow, she began experimenting with edgier and bolder looks. This transformation mirrored her desire to express her unique personality and stand out on her own, proving that style can serve as a language through which individuals can communicate their evolving sense of self.
The evolution of Angela’s and Sophia’s styles illustrates that clothing choices are not merely superficial; they are a means of communication, conveying a myriad of emotions, experiences, and aspirations. A change in style often coincides with significant life events, symbolizing an internal transformation that demands external expression.
Personal expression plays an instrumental role in the style metamorphosis of individuals. It acts as a creative outlet, allowing people to paint their personalities on a canvas of fabric. Through clothing, one can communicate their cultural background, values, and beliefs, forming a unique narrative that speaks volumes without uttering a single word.
Furthermore, style can also be a powerful tool to challenge societal norms and redefine beauty standards. Angela and Sophia’s transformations challenge the notion that personal growth is confined to internal changes; instead, they demonstrate that style can be a visible manifestation of self-improvement, urging others to embrace their own journeys of transformation fearlessly.
Angela Renee White and Sophia Richie’s journey of style transformation exemplifies how personal expression is intricately tied to one’s identity and life experiences. Their evolution from their past selves into confident and stylish individuals speaks volumes about the power of fashion as a signifier of inner growth and empowerment. By embracing their unique styles, they have showcased that clothing choices go beyond aesthetics, shaping the narrative of one’s life and personal journey.
Imagine a life where everyday products, scents, and environments that most people take for granted become sources of discomfort or even debilitating illness.
This is the reality for me and many others living with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS), a condition characterized by extreme sensitivity to chemicals found in common household items, personal care products, and the environment.
Living with MCS requires a heightened awareness and a myriad of coping strategies to navigate a world filled with potential triggers.
Multiple Chemical Sensitivity is a chronic condition that affects individuals differently, but it often involves experiencing adverse reactions to low levels of chemicals that most people tolerate without issue.
These chemicals can be found in cleaning products, perfumes, air fresheners, pesticides, building materials, and even everyday items like scented candles or laundry detergents. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include headaches, dizziness, fatigue, respiratory problems, skin rashes, and cognitive difficulties.
I often find it necessary to create a safe and chemical-free living environment by using fragrance-free and non-toxic products, avoiding places with high chemical exposures, and implementing air filtration systems.
During my visit to the Olfactory NYC for Mother’s Day, I had the opportinity to create my own fragrance. It was hard to indulge in the full expeirence because I knew certain fragrances and notes would be a trigger for me so I stuck to my tried and true vanilla scent.
I have a select few fragrances I wear religiously including Dossier’s Ambery Saffron and Gourmand Blossom. It works for me because I can truly enjoy them without feeling sick, getting a headache or sneezing profusely.
I loved my experience because I could choose exactly what goes into my fragrance and how I want it to smell. I chose Riley as my base which had notes of Hazelnut and Musk. Then I chose Madagascar Vanilla and Sandalwood for the top notes. I didn’t have any adverse reactions, and it smells lovely!
In a world where opulence has long reigned supreme, a new wave of discerning consumers seeks a different kind of luxury—one that whispers rather than shouts, one that captivates through understated elegance. Enter quiet luxury, a concept that has transcended trends to become a timeless embodiment of sophistication and exclusivity.
Quiet luxury is the epitome of refined opulence, rejecting ostentatious displays of wealth in favor of a more subtle allure. It caters to individuals who possess an acute appreciation for the meticulous craftsmanship and intrinsic value that lie beneath the surface. This is a realm where understated beauty reigns supreme, and the pursuit of excellence takes precedence over extravagant showmanship.
At the core of quiet luxury lies a profound shift in consumer values. A rising generation of tastemakers seeks to redefine luxury, placing greater emphasis on meaning and experience rather than superficial adornments. Material possessions alone no longer hold the same allure; instead, these discerning connoisseurs seek a profound connection with products and services that embody their values.
This emerging trend is also intertwined with the rise of the minimalism and simplicity movements, where the clamor for excess has given way to a desire for refined simplicity. Quiet luxury adheres to this aesthetic, offering designs that are sleek, uncluttered, and free from superfluous embellishments. It is an aesthetic that exudes sophistication through subtlety, capturing attention with its sheer understatement.
Yet, quiet luxury is not merely an aesthetic pursuit. It has become an embodiment of conscious consumption, appealing to those who are ethically and environmentally aware. Sustainability, responsible sourcing, and ethical practices are paramount in the realm of quiet luxury, reflecting a deeper connection to the world and a desire to leave a positive impact.
The allure of quiet luxury also lies in its ability to bestow a sense of individuality upon its patrons. In a world where mass production dominates, a quest for unique experiences and products has become paramount. Quiet luxury fulfills this desire by offering exclusive and limited-edition offerings, enabling individuals to express their personal taste and style in a way that sets them apart from the crowd.
Influence plays an integral role in propelling the trend of quiet luxury to the forefront. Key tastemakers, influencers, and opinion leaders have harnessed the power of their platforms to showcase the allure of quiet luxury, compelling their followers to embrace this new wave of refined opulence. Their vision and ability to curate experiences have shaped the zeitgeist, elevating quiet luxury to a status of unparalleled desirability.
Quiet luxury is not a fleeting fad; it represents a fundamental shift in the perception and pursuit of luxury itself. As discerning consumers seek authenticity, personalization, and the sublime in their indulgences, the allure of quiet luxury will only continue to grow. It is a testament to the evolving tastes and aspirations of a new generation—a generation that seeks the harmony of understated elegance and profound experiences in the realm of luxury.
