Is there anyone here (preferably females) who only wear dresses?

[Luanne]

I have been considering this option in lifestyle for quite some time and am feeling possibly drawn to this again.

[nancypants]

I have been considering this option in lifestyle for quite some time and am feeling possibly drawn to this again.

Yikes! No! I love pants. It's too cold for dresses here most of the time (I'd love to tell that to some of the girls whom I see waiting at the bus stop wearing mini-skirts and flip-flops in the dead of winter :rolleyes: )... plus... having been forced to wear them 6 days out of every week until I was 16 (private school + church) I have a clinical aversion to them. I wear one during the Summer sometimes when I'm feeling light and flingy and flirtatious with the hubs...:p I love pants and rarely don a dress.

[battlemaiden]

"preferrably females" :D

I don't exclusively wear dresses. It would be particularly difficult during the nursing days.

I DO, however, almost always wear skirts when I go out. I like knee length skirts (more sporty than feminine, I admit). I don't know that I have any philosophical opinion other than I think I look more put together and lady-like. Also, there is my dh's preference for skirts on me (he likes my calves)....:)

I wouldn't be able to make a commitment to only wear one type of apparel though.

Jo

[CalicoKat]

Yikes! No! I love pants. It's too cold for dresses here most of the time (I'd love to tell that to some of the girls whom I see waiting at the bus stop wearing mini-skirts and flip-flops in the dead of winter :rolleyes: )... plus... having been forced to wear them 6 days out of every week until I was 16 (private school + church) I have a clinical aversion to them. I wear one during the Summer sometimes when I'm feeling light and flingy and flirtatious with the hubs...:p I love pants and rarely don a dress.

me too! I spent most of my youth wearing skirts & dresses --all day, every day! Shorts and pants weren't allowed. (long culottes were for PE)

And,
I still can't eat oatmeal. It was served 6 days of the week at school

And,
I still can't stand the sight of green jello with pears. Actually Jello of any kind is really gross.

And,
I still can't stand pb&j's.

It's amazing what our past does to us! :eek:

[GLOWAcademy]

"preferrably females" :D

I don't exclusively wear dresses. It would be particularly difficult during the nursing days.

I DO, however, almost always wear skirts when I go out. I like knee length skirts (more sporty than feminine, I admit). I don't know that I have any philosophical opinion other than I think I look more put together and lady-like. Also, there is my dh's preference for skirts on me (he likes my calves)....:)

I wouldn't be able to make a commitment to only wear one type of apparel though.

Jo


Jo rofl I started laughing to rofl
Oh my son would love it if I got rid of my slacks and jeans and wore nothing but dresses.

[Amy in MD]

me too! I spent most of my youth wearing skirts & dresses --all day, every day! Shorts and pants weren't allowed. (long culottes were for PE)



It's amazing what our past does to us! :eek:

I am with you there on long culottes... Because of my past experience, I can't do them... ever!!!
Amy

[GLOWAcademy]

I am with you there on long culottes... Because of my past experience, I can't do them... ever!!!
Amy

Do they still make long culottes lol

[Amy in MD]

I have been considering this option in lifestyle for quite some time and am feeling possibly drawn to this again.

I don't all the time but have been more intentional about increasing the skirt/dress choices in my wardrobe. I chose them for the fem. appeal and my husband likes me in skirts versus doing it for a religious reason. Like Battlemaiden, I feel more put together with some of my skirts (knee length).

I think if you are being drawn to it, you should go for it! What does your husband think about it?

Amy

[Jennifer in MI]

I chose them for the fem. appeal and my husband likes me in skirts versus doing it for a religious reason. Like Battlemaiden, I feel more put together with some of my skirts (knee length).



Me too! I just love how I feel in a cute flirty skirt. Now, if the weather would just warm up so I could wear them!

[BamaTanya]

and trying to add more dresses/skirts. I *mostly* wear them, but I *do* pull on jeans when it's very cold.
I haven't been able to find long socks in a while . . . or comfortable thick tights. Maybe I'd be warmer in skirts if I did more shopping online! My s-i-l told me she orders boot socks so her legs are covered even when she's in skirts.
My dh doesn't seem to care, but, when pressed, says he thinks skirts are more modest than pants. That matters to me.

[momofkhm]

I do wear track pants to run in when it's cold. I have a few skorts to run in when it's warm. I also wore jeans when we went skiing and ice skating. Other than that it's skirts for me.

But unlike the others, I like longer skirts. They come down about mid-calf.

[Tutor]

I have been considering this option in lifestyle for quite some time and am feeling possibly drawn to this again.

When I have been feeling unfeminine or unspecial I will go for an extended period wearing only skirts and dresses. I actually prefer long skirts with leggings underneath in the fall and winter. It feels much warmer to me. Somehow wearing skirts gives me the motivation and energy for more domestic tasks. Not sure why. Maybe it was all those hours of Little House on the Prairie. LOL. On those days when I wear my long skirts at home, I seem to get much more done in the way of housework and yard work.

I say that if you'd like to, go for it.

[Jennifer in NH]

As soon as the puppy stops ripping them I will be back to skirts! I also like the long skirts and dresses....too many Marion Zimmer Bradley "Darkover" books! In the winter time I love wearing a long skirt with long underwear or leggings underneath!

[Amy in MD]

and trying to add more dresses/skirts. I *mostly* wear them, but I *do* pull on jeans when it's very cold.
I haven't been able to find long socks in a while . . . or comfortable thick tights. Maybe I'd be warmer in skirts if I did more shopping online! My s-i-l told me she orders boot socks so her legs are covered even when she's in skirts.
My dh doesn't seem to care, but, when pressed, says he thinks skirts are more modest than pants. That matters to me.

Although I haven't worn them, my daughter's tights feel great. I am sure the quality is very nice.

Amy

[Tracey in TX]

I wear dresses and skirts most of the summer. It feels carefree and sexy. I live in sweats and jeans during winter months, though.

[lynn]

Yep, here to went to Christian school culottes (sp?) only or dresses. Hey, I even went to PCC and was shocked to discover how many girls had pair of jeans hidden for when they left campus. Although Ihave nothing against dresses I go for a more ann taylor loft look now.

[Laura Corin]

... plus... having been forced to wear them 6 days out of every week until I was 16 (private school + church) I have a clinical aversion to them.

I just ordered a skirt, for the first time in about ten years. Now let's see if I wear it.

Laura

[Natalieclare]

her blog is www.engstromfamily.blogspot.com (http://www.engstromfamily.blogspot.com) :p

I've loved watching the journey this family has taken, though we don't go down all the same paths. :o It is startling how many people have had a negative reaction to the dresses only thing. :( Her normally supportive, helpful, gracious mother-in-law is not particularly encouraging of this practice (read major understatement), so whenever I know I will be around this mil, my dds and I choose to wear skirts in solidarity.:cool:

[A.J. at J.A.]

Can someone post an example of how you wear a "long skirt"...I would love to, I think it would look more feminine, but I can't imagine how I would be comfortable all day in it schooling and I can never figure out what to put on my feet (I have really fat ankles even though I'm built really small - Thanks MOM! :rolleyes:)

Also a link to a "complete" look would be appreciated as well. Let's just say I'm "fashionably" challenged!

Angela

[SnowWhite]

I'm one of the unusual few who have religious convictions in favor of wearing only dresses or skirts and tops. Feel free to PM me if you want links to places to buy them or anything like that.

[Margaret in CO]

I am another of those dress-wearing ladies. And yes, I can manage to pull a lamb whilst doing it! I make all mine, as I'd never be able to find anything that fits. I love batik-dyed material for summer dresses, and flannel in the winter. I wore a stylish outfit this weekend--long dress, with leggings underneath and sorel snowpacs to time a ski race!

[AmyinPA]

this is only during warmer weather. But I just like the way I look in a flowing knee-length skirt as opposed to shorts. Plus, skirts are way more comfortable. Throw on a tank top with a a-line skirt and you're ready for any occasion.

[RhondaM.]

I'm one of the unusual few who have religious convictions in favor of wearing only dresses or skirts and tops. Feel free to PM me if you want links to places to buy them or anything like that.

Same here. :)

[RhondaM.]

Can someone post an example of how you wear a "long skirt"...I would love to, I think it would look more feminine, but I can't imagine how I would be comfortable all day in it schooling and I can never figure out what to put on my feet (I have really fat ankles even though I'm built really small - Thanks MOM! :rolleyes:)

Also a link to a "complete" look would be appreciated as well. Let's just say I'm "fashionably" challenged!

Angela

Long skirts are actually more comfortable than short ones. With a long skirt I can sit as unlady like as I please ... and still be totally modest. Can't do that with a shorter skirt, not even one knee length.

[KarenNC]

I wear skirts and dresses pretty much exclusively (only exception really is when we go to the Y to work out under a really long tshirt). I wear them because they are comfortable and I look better in them (I've *seen* my rear end in pants---:eek:). My preference is for skirts that are at least mid calf if not a bit longer, and that are fairly full so that I can move around (at least an A-line). Our winters are pretty mild, but I will put a pair of leggings under one of my longest skirts for sitting out at the park all day with the homeschool group when it's going to be chilly.

Not horribly fashionable, but my typical thing in colder weather is denim skirt/folded over cuff socks/tennis shoes. For dressier occasions, trouser socks (hence the really long skirts <g>) and loafers or low pumps. When it's warmer, I wear sandals.

[lynn]

Now I never did understand how can skirts be more modest than pants. I heard this all through highschool and we were told it's just a "standard" for the school which was fine but more modest um well no....not when you walked up and down stairways that were open or perhaps slipped down:eek: Pants would have been good. Oh and ....wrap around skirts wind does not mix.....yikes

[JennifersLost]

is where are you all finding stockings/tights (winter weight) that don't do the whole static cling thing with your skirts. I bought a new pair of tights, tried wearing them with a denim skirt and it took all of 20 seconds for me to go insane, rip the whole outfit off and start over.

I want to wear skirts (waaaay more comfy).

I don't want to be cold.

If I could find a solution I'd be a really happy momma!

[Kris]

After all these years in pants and sweats, I couldn't do it now. Not without some practice. 'Til I got used to it again, there would be a lot of flashing going on while I flipped that thing out of the way! LOL!

[lynn]

This helps with static cling when I wear dresses, I rub one over the slip and hose.

[Holly IN]

Preferably females cracked me up. :D hee hee ;)

I had considered it at one point. My dh made a point that he really wants me to wear pants for my saftey. I do wear dresses to church though but not out in public. He said that he fears my safety in public regardless so his reasoning is that pants are much harder to get into than dresses. If you feel you want to do that then by all means do it. I would ask dh about it though. I thought my dh would be for it since that is the way he grew up. He said no way for alot of reasons.

I know this is not much help but just my perspective and what dh's thoughts are.

Holly

[Kelli in TN]

I dressed in all dresses and skirts and dressed my daughters the same or in cullottes. I think the phase lasted about 2 years.

One of my daughters never did forgive me. But then, she never forgives me for anything.

I don't think my motives were right and my husband did not want me to do this.

[Eliana]

I don't wear pants (or shorts!), only dresses or skirts with hemlines to my mid-calf or below.

What kind of insight are you looking for?

Practical/logistical? I haven't been uncomfortable or inconvenienced by it at all. Layers, including tights or leggings, are a good solution in cold weather. Sturdy fabrics and appropriate cuts to my skirts let me work or play without difficulty. Leggings under skirts ensure modesty in windy weather or during certain types of activities.

Motivation? Mine is simple. This has been the 'dress code' of my people for a very, very long time; it is the way an Orthodox Jewish woman dresses, and I believe it has profound spiritual significance. This observance is one of the many ways we sanctify the physical, and it enriches my life on many levels.

If there is anything I can share with you that might be of assistance in your spiritual journey, let me know... and best wishes as you explore observances which might enhance your connection to the Divine. The process is amazing and, whatever you end up deciding about specific things, you will end up with a better sense of how you relate to G-d and your practice of your faith.


Eliana

[Jean in Wisc]

And then we moved to the farm. The day I was trying to climb a fence in a skirt with the neighbor (male) watching was the final straw. Nothing feminine about that!

[momo4]

I only wear skirts and dresses in the spring, summer and some of fall. Haven't filled the wardrobe to be bundled enough for the winter. I love wearing dresses, my husband likes it and so do my boys. I feel more feminine and reverent if that makes sense. I tried to get some winter skirts, but I would need some wool stockings to make it work. Besides it is hard to trudge around in the snow with a skirt. I don't want to feel like I HAVE to wear a skirt like I see some women and girls do. A karate outfit with a skirt on is very different.:)

I agree, if you feel lead, go for it. Nothing like the peace of following a leading. I felt lead too, but didn't make it work for winter.

[Luanne]

I don't all the time but have been more intentional about increasing the skirt/dress choices in my wardrobe. I chose them for the fem. appeal and my husband likes me in skirts versus doing it for a religious reason. Like Battlemaiden, I feel more put together with some of my skirts (knee length).

I think if you are being drawn to it, you should go for it! What does your husband think about it?

Amy

If I had a husband I don't know what he would think about it. I've been single for over 4 years now and am not even dating anyone. It's just me and my 19 year old daughter who is ok with me doing whatever I want (as long as I don't make her do it too LOL).

[angela in ohio]

I have been considering this option in lifestyle for quite some time and am feeling possibly drawn to this again.

I did for about a year, but I got so much grief from other Christian homeschool moms that I couldn't take it any more and quit. I still think about going back to it, but I have zero support (other than dh, who thinks it is nice, but doesn't want to deal with the comments.)

Anyway, I loved, loved, loved the way I felt in skirts. I say go for it!!!

[Luanne]

her blog is www.engstromfamily.blogspot.com (http://www.engstromfamily.blogspot.com) :p

I've loved watching the journey this family has taken, though we don't go down all the same paths. :o It is startling how many people have had a negative reaction to the dresses only thing. :( Her normally supportive, helpful, gracious mother-in-law is not particularly encouraging of this practice (read major understatement), so whenever I know I will be around this mil, my dds and I choose to wear skirts in solidarity.:cool:

She has chosen this path. Her mother seems fairly supportive, but her sister and other family members all think she is pretty much out of her mind. I also try to be supportive.

[Luanne]

And you are right here in Colorado too. That's cool!

[Luanne]

I don't wear pants (or shorts!), only dresses or skirts with hemlines to my mid-calf or below.

What kind of insight are you looking for?

Practical/logistical? I haven't been uncomfortable or inconvenienced by it at all. Layers, including tights or leggings, are a good solution in cold weather. Sturdy fabrics and appropriate cuts to my skirts let me work or play without difficulty. Leggings under skirts ensure modesty in windy weather or during certain types of activities.

Motivation? Mine is simple. This has been the 'dress code' of my people for a very, very long time; it is the way an Orthodox Jewish woman dresses, and I believe it has profound spiritual significance. This observance is one of the many ways we sanctify the physical, and it enriches my life on many levels.

If there is anything I can share with you that might be of assistance in your spiritual journey, let me know... and best wishes as you explore observances which might enhance your connection to the Divine. The process is amazing and, whatever you end up deciding about specific things, you will end up with a better sense of how you relate to G-d and your practice of your faith.


Eliana

Basically I guess I wanted to know that I am not the only one who feels this is appropriate. Also, I am trying to figure out reasonable priced places to purchase dresses since finding them in a regular store is almost impossible these days. I also haven't figured out how to make it work with my "Wal-Mart dress code" I am required to wear to work every day. I am not much of a skirt kind of person (makes me look dumpy I think) so I am mainly thinking either jumpers or dresses.

[Luanne]

I only wear skirts and dresses in the spring, summer and some of fall. Haven't filled the wardrobe to be bundled enough for the winter. I love wearing dresses, my husband likes it and so do my boys. I feel more feminine and reverent if that makes sense. I tried to get some winter skirts, but I would need some wool stockings to make it work. Besides it is hard to trudge around in the snow with a skirt. I don't want to feel like I HAVE to wear a skirt like I see some women and girls do. A karate outfit with a skirt on is very different.:)

I agree, if you feel lead, go for it. Nothing like the peace of following a leading. I felt lead too, but didn't make it work for winter.

I guess these are the main reasons I feel drawn to wear dresses instead of pants.

[Luanne]

how I am going to make this work with my dress code at work (especially since I would rather wear dresses or jumpers than skirts). We are required to wear a navy blue top and khaki colored bottoms. Can I quit my job yet? LOL

[Volty]

Hrumph.... for the record, I would never wear dresses and look like Dustin Hoffman.

I prefer outfits that make me look like Madonna.

[Eliana]

Basically I guess I wanted to know that I am not the only one who feels this is appropriate. Also, I am trying to figure out reasonable priced places to purchase dresses since finding them in a regular store is almost impossible these days. I also haven't figured out how to make it work with my "Wal-Mart dress code" I am required to wear to work every day. I am not much of a skirt kind of person (makes me look dumpy I think) so I am mainly thinking either jumpers or dresses.

You are not alone! I forget sometimes how atypical my community is compared to the larger world...

I've found many items at excellent prices on ebay (you have to be confident of the sizes you want, but many sellers do give measurements as well as dress size, which helps a lot).

Blair ( http://www.blair.com ) often has some nice sales - as well as a wide range of sizes.

For plus sizes Roaman's ( http://www.roamans.com/ ) is another online source - I like some of their cotton shirts - simple button down collared shirts and mock turtle necks - often for under $10 each.

My favorite skirts come from Deva Lifewear: http://www.devalifewear.com/mm5/
Their skirts last and last and last - despite years of tugging hands with sticky fingers. The circle skirt is my absolute favorite. (They have some nice jumpers as well, but I generally wear skirts and blouses - a habit from all the years nursing babies! - so I can't personally testify to their longevity!)


We've had a fair bit of success at our local Ross Dress for Less and Goodwill.


HTH


Eliana (eliana@efn.org)

[8FillTheHeart]

I did for about a year, but I got so much grief from other Christian homeschool moms that I couldn't take it any more and quit.

Ok......I think it is totally bizarre that anyone would comment on what another adult is wearing! :eek: Those people need to get a life! Yikes......I just can't imagine having the gall to tell someone that they needed to wear pants or a skirt.

As for me......I am definitely a jeans/t-shirt and pony-tail type of gal. :) My daughters on the other hand, even the 14 yo, all prefer to wear the long flirty skirts. Their taste is much more refined than mine. ;)

[Kathy in MD]

Now I never did understand how can skirts be more modest than pants. I heard this all through highschool and we were told it's just a "standard" for the school which was fine but more modest um well no....not when you walked up and down stairways that were open or perhaps slipped down:eek: Pants would have been good. Oh and ....wrap around skirts wind does not mix.....yikes

and the guys would stand underneath to look up. Or the times a gust of wind would catch my skirts and send them waist high ala Marilyn Monroe. Or my bosses who loved to tease me by finagling me over one of those open grates in the sidewalk exhausting air. (It was teasing because they knew I'd grab my skirts before I stepped on the grate). Or sitting in class and seeing up a classmate's skirt.

Nope, well fitting pants and shorts are far more modest. In fact, poorly fitting pants are probably still more modest.

[Holly IN]

how I am going to make this work with my dress code at work (especially since I would rather wear dresses or jumpers than skirts). We are required to wear a navy blue top and khaki colored bottoms. Can I quit my job yet? LOL

Is this at Walmart? If so then there is a gal who is dresses only that works at my local Walmart. She wears a tan skirt that is very long.

Holly

[Holly IN]

Or the times a gust of wind would catch my skirts and send them waist high ala Marilyn Monroe. .

That has happened to me several times even when going to church. Yikes!! So I make sure I have my kids flank to my sides to prevent that on a windy Sunday. That is another reason my dh didn't want me to wear dresses all the time. There were too many incidences of my dress flying up or the teasings or ...

Now I would never make comments about other women being dresses only. I have several friends that wear dresses only. They are not bothered that I wear pants and vice versa.

Holly

[nuthouse]

because I've had this large midline surgical scar that runs from bra line to belly button. For whatever reason, the scar is very sensitive. Pants and jeans bother it if worn all day; so for comfort, I wear dresses and jumpers which do not sit tightly at the waist. I find it difficult to get in the mood to do serious cleaning in a dress and I have trouble with wearing pantyhose. I feel like a half dressed secretary most days. Winter is very difficult for me to find "grown" women's clothes that are comfortable and wearable. Yes, I have one pair of low rise waist pants; no woman my age/height/wieght should be wearin' low risers. Soft knit pants are a option and I do wear them occasionally, but they make me feel like I'm wearing pajamas. Stacy! Clinton! Help!

[Virginia Dawn]

I still can't stand the sight of green jello with pears. Actually Jello of any kind is really gross.


Spaghettios and green Jello for lunch, makes me nauseous every time I think of it. :)

[Virginia Dawn]

It was often uncomfortable and inconvenient. After 2 years, I got a revelation that I didn't really want to be wearing only dresses and skirts for the rest of my life.

However, I still wear casual skirts a lot in the summer because they are so much cooler. And since it is summer, all I have to do is slip on a pair of sandals. Before, I would have to figure out what kind of foot and leg coverings wouldn't look stupid or cause discomfort during cool weather.

Also, since I can't stand to stick out in a crowd, I found that wearing a close approximation of what other women my age are wearing, I could blend in and feel deliciously anonymous. :)

[Plaid Dad]

I had to laugh over the "females" part, too, because I spent a week last month at a monastery with monks who wear their habits for all kinds of work. I'd probably be much more comfortable dressed like that than in my usual uniform of jeans or khakis.

But that wasn't what you were asking about, was it? ;)

I did want to mention that there is are a bunch of Yahoo mailing lists for women who wear dresses for religious reasons. Many are for members of a particular faith (Christian, Jewish, Muslim) or denomination within that faith. For obvious reasons I've never been a member of those, but there is a co-ed one about plain and modest dress (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PlainAndModestDress/) that I belonged to for a little while some years ago. The list owners are a Catholic woman and a Quaker man. The subscription requirements seem strict, but my experience with the group was very positive and I found it helpful that there were Christians from a variety of backgrounds on the list. Many had come to modest dress as part of a return to religious traditionalism in one form or another.

HTH!

[Tami]

I am all for celebrating my femininity, but Nope. I find loose jeans or trousers cover a lot more than skirts. It is windy here - you really have to watch it if you wear a skirt! My take on the intent of the Biblical admonition on clothing is two-fold. First, it must be modest and second, it must honor the gift of sexuality (male or female) God has given us. In other words, I don't want to ever dress or groom myself in such a way that I could be mistaken for a man.

Also, I think God is more concerned with my actions and communication toward others than whether I am wearing a skirt or trousers. I think that focusing too much on "religious" clothing can alienate us from others and become a matter of pride.

Wear what you and your husband like and what makes feel feminine. If your husband does not like the idea of all skirts, I would drop it. Most men don't enjoy seeing their wives look super frumpy. (Just being honest here!)

[RebeccaC]

During the Gulf war I was undercover, covert and wore civilian clothing. The Sheik asked that all females dress to a certain code who were covert. So I fought the war in office dresses falling below the knee, sleeves below the elbow, and no collar bone showing. I was stationed at the international air port in Abu Dhabi while at the air port dresses were OK. However I had to spend some time in tent city where Shaw Air Force base was set up. Walking through that camp meant I had men literally trailing me and touching my dress/skirt or other behavior I will not type out. American men not Arab men. For some men it was just hunger for the feminine and for a lot of others it was just easy access. In tent city I tried to always wear slacks and was very thankful to have them. In fact I felt safer wearing pants.

Dresses and skirts maybe more feminine but the also offer easy access. Men do treat women who wear dresses different and while in the military and out working in the field of archeology I heard more than once that to some men a woman in a dress means easy access.

I grew up in a church where not wearing a dress or skirt was a sin. So was a female cutting her hair. My mil was an orthodox Jew and she wore nothing but dresses and a wig or scarf to cover her hair. I have lived in United Arab Emirate, Saudi, Israel, Holland, and of course in the States and no matter where or what religious flavor legalism is a hard burden to bear. I am not saying that your desire is legalism but just that I have seen dresses only held in that light. I do own a couple of dresses and a couple of skirts but my main wear, outfit is jeans or clam diggers in the summer.

[Tami]

{}

[Jackie in AR]

Ok......I think it is totally bizarre that anyone would comment on what another adult is wearing! :eek: Those people need to get a life! Yikes......I just can't imagine having the gall to tell someone that they needed to wear pants or a skirt.

I've known of churches where the pants/skirt issue for women was HUGE. It finally got to the point in one of the churches where they began a "casual" service for those who insisted on not dressing properly ;). Because, you know, it just isn't right for the casual types to sit next to those who are properly dressed for worship. ;)

I'm sorry for being so snarky this morning, but this type of legalism has really been jumping out at me lately. Probably because I'm one of the casual dressers. :D

[Faithseed]

I say "dresses" because we also wear skirts. :) We have dressed this way for 7 years.

My personal preference is to wear skirts that come down to my ankles, and that flare out- no pencil skirts for me. My reason for this style is for practical purposes. The wind is almost never an issue since the skirt is so long, and due to our lifestyle (farming, gardening, small children), I need the freedom of movement that fuller skirts provides. I wear silk long leggings in the winter under heavy denim or another heavy fabric, and I don't find that I'm any colder than I would be otherwise (although in TX it isn't that cold for that long anyway)

To say that we've met with resistance is an understatement. When I began wearing head coverings over a year ago, even my most conservative friends were ready to head us over to the loony bin. I am one who would much rather fit into a crowd, and I loathe to stand out, but these were our own personal convictions. I've had my feelings hurt more than once, but I've learned not to let other's opinions of us matter as much.

One thing that still gets to me, however, is how many people instantly assume "how we are". We're assumed to be "one of those kinds of people". "Overly religious", "legalistic", and the list goes on and on. (Warning....I think I'm almost at a rant- sorry!)

I don't believe we are any of those things. We're just a regular family who chooses to dress in a different manner for our own reasons. We do not belong to any church, sect, or cult. We came to these convictions on our own. We're "just Christians" without a denomination determining what we must do. We don't believe that we are better than anyone else, and we honestly don't care what anyone else wears. (end rant)

Whatever you decide, I would encourage you that you are the one that has to feel at peace with your decision.

[Jean in Newcastle]

Basically I guess I wanted to know that I am not the only one who feels this is appropriate. Also, I am trying to figure out reasonable priced places to purchase dresses since finding them in a regular store is almost impossible these days. I also haven't figured out how to make it work with my "Wal-Mart dress code" I am required to wear to work every day. I am not much of a skirt kind of person (makes me look dumpy I think) so I am mainly thinking either jumpers or dresses.

Last year I started to make the switch to dresses. This almost made my dad faint - I was tom-boy as a child and practically had to be wrestled into a dress or skirt! Anyway - I went to a couple of thrift stores. I pulled all the dresses in my size (I was amazed how many there were!) Through trial and error I discovered that my body looks best in a "sheath" - a no sleeves, slightly form-fitting dress that I wear over a shirt. I found them in knit fabric that moves with me when I am playing with the kids or house-cleaning. I wear leggings underneath during the autumn and winter.

If you do the thrift store route it makes it pretty painless as you try to find styles that work for you. My ds (who loves me in dresses!) kept trying to get me to wear romantic flowing ones - I got one but discovered that style trips me on the stairs and actually made me look frumpier (because of where my weight is distributed). But since the dress only cost me $3 it was no hard-ship to put it in the charity bag!

[M&M]

I started when I couldn't find any decent clothing for my 7yo. Everything was styled after Brittany Spears (this was 5 years ago). My skinny dd could not wear the low rise pants and jeans (they just fell off of her) and there was not a dress or skirt to be found. Only low rise jeans and midriff tops.

I got angry that I couldn't find any decent clothes over size 6x. I started looking online - researching and questioning. What does God say about modesty and dress? Who is deciding what I wear me or some designer somewhere who is making a lot of money off of changing styles every year? Why do I dress the way I do? Why don't women wear dresses anymore? My grandmother always wore dresses. I used to love to wear dresses when I was little. What changed?

I decided that:
1) I like dresses and skirts
2) I had become very frumpy in my dress (jeans, sweats, dh shirts)
3)I felt modest and feminine in a dress or skirt
4) I felt honoring to my husband and my God when I dresses this way
5) if I wanted my dd to dress this way I had to set the example

I didn't know if I could do it. I thought I would freeze in winter. I wanted this to be a heart decision not a law I imposed upon myself. So, I tried it and I liked it. So, for some 5 years now I have chosen to wear dresses and skirts. I have worn pants a few times when I thought I was more appropriate. I have to say the day I put on a pair of jeans to go to the park when it was cold and damp, I was freezing and couldn't wait to put on my favorite flannel dress and silk leggins.

I found that I could do almost anything in a longer skirt and that my fuller cut dresses worked great for maternity clothes. And a skirt and top were great for nursing. I can crawl around on the floor with my toddlers. I feel ready to run out of the house at any time and still look put together. No more "frump mom" for me! ( I also love aprons)

[M&M]

Oops! I didn't mean for this to be under Jean's post! One day I will get this format!

[jmgconner]

I only wear skirts and dresses in the spring, summer and some of fall. Haven't filled the wardrobe to be bundled enough for the winter. I love wearing dresses, my husband likes it and so do my boys. I feel more feminine and reverent if that makes sense. I tried to get some winter skirts, but I would need some wool stockings to make it work. Besides it is hard to trudge around in the snow with a skirt. I don't want to feel like I HAVE to wear a skirt like I see some women and girls do. A karate outfit with a skirt on is very different.:)

I agree, if you feel lead, go for it. Nothing like the peace of following a leading. I felt lead too, but didn't make it work for winter.


This is how I feel, too. I don't worry about making sure I always wear a skirt, but I love how it makes me feel, and DH loves how it looks on me. :D

[Mrs. H.]

I just started feeling like I looked immodest in jeans. I was always thin growing up, and when I was a teen I liked to look good so people would notice me. When I got married, I wanted to look good for dh, but not for other men. I talked to him about it (he said he didn't care, whatever made me comfortable), and got rid of all my jeans.

I went through jean/short withdrawal for about six months, but stuck with it. I now find that skirts or dresses are cooler in the summer, and a skirt made out of the right material, with tights or long socks is warmer in the winter than I ever remember pants being.

Several months ago, I was given a few pairs of very nice, expensive khaki slacks by a relative. I tried on a pair and they were comfortable, and I wore them for a day, thinking I might wear them to clean or work in the yard. Dh didn't say anything for a while, but on day two he quietly told me he liked me better in skirts/dresses. To the charity they went, and I've never looked back.

As a side note, I have to admit that I do wear pajama pants and sweats for lounging around the house or exercising. I have found it very difficult to be comfortable on the couch or with the kids in the evenings while wrestling a long nightgown. The pajama pants and a t-shirt are much easier, and nothing beats a pair of sweats straight out of the dryer when you're sick, like today for me.

[Jackie in AR]

One thing that still gets to me, however, is how many people instantly assume "how we are". We're assumed to be "one of those kinds of people". "Overly religious", "legalistic", and the list goes on and on. (Warning....I think I'm almost at a rant- sorry!)

I don't believe we are any of those things. We're just a regular family who chooses to dress in a different manner for our own reasons. We do not belong to any church, sect, or cult. We came to these convictions on our own. We're "just Christians" without a denomination determining what we must do. We don't believe that we are better than anyone else, and we honestly don't care what anyone else wears.


Sounds like you are spot-on, Faithseed. You wear what you feel comfortable wearing and you don't worry about what others have on. Wouldn't it be nice if we all could get past appearances to the things that really matter in this life? :)

I'm sorry that others' legalism has been applied to your family.

I wish you lived close to me. I think we would be good friends.

[kdeno]

:eek:

I do wear only dresses and skirts. I strive not to look easy access or frumpy.
I cannot retype now but feel free to PM me.

Kari

For the record~ I do not think the Bible teaches that all women MUST wear skirts/dresses but I am certain He wants me to. I can share more later :-)

[KarenNC]

I had to laugh over the "females" part, too, because I spent a week last month at a monastery with monks who wear their habits for all kinds of work. I'd probably be much more comfortable dressed like that than in my usual uniform of jeans or khakis.

I have to admit that my husband tried on a utilikilt (http://www.utilikilts.com/?page_id=30) a couple of weeks ago, and ....my goodness :D. If we could afford the $250 he would have one right now! He looks much better in it than in jeans, honestly.

(btw, it has a modesty snap for things like climbing ladders, etc---a friend of ours has two and loves them)

[SnowWhite]

For those who think jeans are more modest than a skirt, I challenge you to spend a week with an Amish farming mother. You will never find a more modest woman. Yes, she can hand till a garden, climb ladders into the haymow, climb over fences, and still be modest. It's a matter of wearing skirts or dresses that are long and full enough for your lifestyle.

I have never ever told anyone else what they should be wearing (nor do I plan to), and my religious conviction is not one of obligation, but of joyful compliance. Like a princess would be expected always to uphold her regal image, it is my joy to cultivate a modest and feminine style.

[KarenNC]

My personal preference is to wear skirts that come down to my ankles, and that flare out- no pencil skirts for me. My reason for this style is for practical purposes. The wind is almost never an issue since the skirt is so long, and due to our lifestyle (farming, gardening, small children), I need the freedom of movement that fuller skirts provides. I wear silk long leggings in the winter under heavy denim or another heavy fabric, and I don't find that I'm any colder than I would be otherwise (although in TX it isn't that cold for that long anyway)

Agreed. I am not comfortable, nor do I look good, in a straight cut skirt or one that is shorter than mid calf. I don't have to worry about modesty when I sit down or bend over, etc.

One thing that still gets to me, however, is how many people instantly assume "how we are". We're assumed to be "one of those kinds of people". "Overly religious", "legalistic", and the list goes on and on. (Warning....I think I'm almost at a rant- sorry!)

:p Try imagining the looks *I* get when the folks making the assumptions find out that the stay at home mom who always wears skirts or dresses, has a long gray ponytail, stresses modest behavior and dress for her daughter, has not had television service for years because of the content, refuses to buy Bratz dolls or even remotely suggestive clothing for her 7 year old, is very active in her faith community and classically homeschools her child is actually a Neopagan!

I'm afraid I rather mess up the stereotype for them :D.

[Kinsa]

I have been "dresses/skirts only" since last summer, and I have been surprised at the change in my demeanor, manners, and attitude. These have been pleasant, unexpected side-effects. I knew that I was following the Lord's leading in switching, but I didn't expect what happened afterwards. It has really been a blessing to me and my family. I would encourage you, if you feel led, to follow your heart and just see what happens. Best wishes!

[Amy in NH]

is where are you all finding stockings/tights (winter weight) that don't do the whole static cling thing with your skirts. I bought a new pair of tights, tried wearing them with a denim skirt and it took all of 20 seconds for me to go insane, rip the whole outfit off and start over.

I want to wear skirts (waaaay more comfy).

I don't want to be cold.

If I could find a solution I'd be a really happy momma!


Yeah! What she said! :D

[chickenpatty]

It's just our preference. :)

[Tutor]

My dh is going to buy a couple of kilts once we can afford them. He loves the idea and thinks they are very comfortable.

[kdeno]

tights

Kari

[mcconnellboys]

So you haven't discovered the wonders of kilts, Plaid Dad?

Regena

[Faithseed]

Jackie- That's so sweet of you! Thanks! I'm sure we'd be good friends too :)

Karen- I actually snorted when I got to the end of your post! I bet you do get some reactions!! *snicker* You go girl! I suppose we would fit in most with the Mennonite conservatives...that is, until they learn that not only do we drink wine, we *gasp* even make our own. ~faints dead away~

SnowWhite- Amen- joyful compliance.

Honoring your beliefs to the utmost of your ability and convictions is important for your own peace.

[HomeOnTheRanch]

About 2 years ago I got a long denim skirt. I couldn't believe how comfortable it was. I bought another, and another, and another (thus started my eBay addiction :D ) How come no one ever told me how comfortable they were? I have 2 pairs of jeans and 2 pairs of khaki pants. The rest of my wardrobe "bottoms" are long skirts (mostly khaki & jean, but other stuff also). However, I usually don't wear the pants unless I'm going to be doing something where it would be immodest for me to wear a skirt or if it is laundry day and everything else is dirty.

They are cool in summer and warm in winter. In fact, last winter I was doing a little construction project on my front porch in a skirt. I decided I needed to go to the hardware store for something. It was an icky day and I knew I would be climbing in the back of the pickup so I changed to jeans. When I got home I completed my project in my jeans and I was really surprised at how much colder it was with the jeans. Something about having a buffer of air between skin and fabric kept me warmer. I can't stand wearing tights due to the static. I just wear socks with mules or boots in winter. I actually think I look nicer in the skirts.

I only wore shorts once or twice last summer. I happen to find the skirts more cool and comfortable than shorts.

I have no problem with people wearing pants/jeans (as long as I don't have to look at their crack). DH hasn't really said anything...in fact, I don't think anyone has said anything to me about it.

DD chooses to wear skirts and dresses if given an option. I do have to remind her to put some pants/shorts on under the dress if she is twirling around or roughhousing with her brothers.

Some of the other posts about it being "dangerous" to wear a skirt had me floored. Eeek. Whether or not I'm in danger based on my clothing choice has never crossed my mind. The area of town/time of night I'm driving/walking maybe, but never my clothing. That would be an interesting study.

[Plaid Dad]

I have to admit that my husband tried on a utilikilt (http://www.utilikilts.com/?page_id=30) a couple of weeks ago, and ....my goodness :D.

My wife has been wanting to get me a Utilikilt for years. :D

[mcconnellboys]

Hmmm, you've given me a great idea for my husband's b-day...... Thanks!

Regena

[Eliana]

I find loose jeans or trousers cover a lot more than skirts. It is windy here - you really have to watch it if you wear a skirt! <snip>

Also, I think God is more concerned with my actions and communication toward others than whether I am wearing a skirt or trousers. I think that focusing too much on "religious" clothing can alienate us from others and become a matter of pride.


A few responses:

1) I wear long, cotton skirts and have never had an issue even on very windy days. I don't think logistics need to be a barrier for anyone who wants to take this on.

2) I think any observance (or, for that matter lack of observance) can become a 'matter of pride' if undertaken with poorly focused intentions. When we focus on comparing ourselves to others rather than on our relationship with G-d, we're setting ourselves up for trouble.

3) I believe that how we dress affects how we act and how we communicate with others. They aren't, imho, completely separate issues.
The way we dress, the way we perform the little details of our lives, the level of attention we bring to our actions, all of these impact who we are, how we behave, and, imho, our relationship with G-d as well as with other people.

I am not for a moment suggesting that everyone should use my approach! But I am saying that these are not trivial, 'legalistic' decisions to me.

I belong to a community which is often derided by outsiders as legalistic.
Every aspect of my life is guided by my faith: the food I put into my body, the words I breathe out, the clothes I wear (both their material and what they cover), what times I month I am intimate with my husband, the images I see, how I use my money, the way I treat others, the days on which I work and those on which I 'rest'. I say brachos (blessings) before and after eating, after using the bathroom, when I wake up, before I go to sleep, when I put on new clothes or shoes, when I see a rainbow or hear thunder.
I pay intense attention to each detail of divine law, not because I am legalistic, but because I believe G-d 's words are not random or vague, and that each detail is worthy of my careful study. G-d is in the details.

I believe that I have been given the means to try to sanctify my life, to elevate even the most mundane aspects of life, to try to make my life holy, and that because it is such an important task, that I should approach it with at least the level of care I would approach working in a nuclear reactor. The details are not trivial, each one is important and there for my benefit.


The boundaries of Torah provide a container for holiness in my life. The rules of Shabbos, for instance, create a sanctuary in time each week which has sustained my people throughout our generations.



Whew! I'll just climb down off that soapbox now....
Tami, I don't think that rant was all a response to you. I appreciate your viewpoint and hope my passionate defense of my own doesn't come off as disrespectful. My lifestyle and spiritual path are the right ones for me, I would never presume to know how another person should approach her observances and spiritual journey.



Eliana

[Rebecca in VA]

That was beautiful, Eliana. Thank you for posting. Would you mind telling what Jewish sect you belong to? Our Tapestry of Grace class is studying ancient Israel. We're learning some basic Hebrew, and next Sunday we're going to visit a historic synagogue in Washington, D.C. The students have a real love for the Jews, and I would like to bring your words to their attention.

[Eliana]

That was beautiful, Eliana. Thank you for posting. Would you mind telling what Jewish sect you belong to? Our Tapestry of Grace class is studying ancient Israel. We're learning some basic Hebrew, and next Sunday we're going to visit a historic synagogue in Washington, D.C. The students have a real love for the Jews, and I would like to bring your words to their attention.

We don't have 'sects' really. There are two types of groupings:

1) ethnic: Ashkenazic Jews have ancestry that goes back to Eastern Europe, Sephardic Jews to the Iberian peninsula or, by some definitions Persia, etc.
There are liturgical differences - different melodies for some prayers, some differences in the order of a prayer service - differences in minhagim (customs), and culinary differences. I'm Ashkenazic.

2) Level of/approach to observance: often broken down as Orthodox, Conservative, Reform (and, more recently, Reconstructionist and Renewal)

The Reform movement grew out of Haskala (the Enlightenment) and a desire to be less different from the surrounding culture. It tended towards a very rationalist approach and discarded many traditional observances as outdated.

The Conservative movement was a reaction within the Reform movement to the wholesale discarding of traditions, wanting to 'conserve' more traditions while still modernizing observances. (I am over simplifying drastically here.)

The Reconstructionist movement was started by a small group within the Conservative movement. They hold that Torah and halacha are are not from G-d, they are the product of the accumulated wisdom and insight of the Jewish people over time.


Jewish renewal movement grew out of social and cultural explorations of the '60s - very much focused on the individual spiritual experience. A New Age Judaism, so to speak.

Orthodox Judaism (an external, not internal label) is the continuation of Jewish traditional observance. It is not a uniform movement, and there are many equally valid hashkafos (philosophies/worldviews) within Torah Judaism, though all hold that the Torah was given by G-d to Moshe at Har Sinai in two parts, the Written and the Oral, and that G-d made there an eternal covenant with our people. I haven't the time right now to try to give an overview of these haskafos (perhaps later...), but I do want to make clear that they are not different sects or movements!

I am traditionally observant, we would say 'shomer mitzvos' or 'frum', and outsider would say 'Orthodox'. :)

Let me know if you have any other questions!

Eliana (eliana@efn.org)

[Rebecca in VA]

I didn't mean to offend you -- I just didn't know how to refer to different philosophies of Judaism.

Last week when my class (I teach it) was preparing for our synagogue visit, we were looking over handouts that I purchased from Behrman House Publishers. The students were really shocked to see a photo of a woman rabbi! They had lots of questions ("Is she from the tribe of Levi?"). One little girl is so infatuated with Israel that she will be going there with her mom this coming fall on vacation.

I think the students would love to meet someone like you. Thanks again!