Modest Formal Dresses

Defining Modest

What is considered modest teen clothing to one person may be bold and flaunting to another, but in general modest formal dresses share common characteristics, including:

• Higher necklines that do not reveal more than a hint of cleavage.
• Longer hemlines that typically fall to the knees or lower.
• No strapless or spaghetti strap designs; wider straps, cap sleeves, or dresses with sleeves are more modest.
• No plunging backlines or open corset backs.
• More demure or feminine colors; modest dresses are rarely shockingly bright colors or coated with spangles and glitter.
• Modest silhouettes that do not cling to a woman’s curves; A-line, empire, and princess dresses are frequent choices for modest attire.

Why Wear Modest Dresses?

Young women choose to wear modest dresses for a variety of reasons and occasions. A modest prom gown is appropriate for a school that has strict dress code guidelines, while a modest formal dress is suitable for formal church events such as weddings. Modest dresses can also be warmer in cold climates because less skin is revealed, or a young woman may prefer modest attire because she is shy or has a more demure, reserved personality. Some cultures also stress modest attire for young women.

Regardless of the reason for fashionable modesty, a modest dress can be an attractive, beautiful gown suitable for any formal dance or event.

Making Your Dress Modest

A scoop neckline is modest.

It can be difficult to find modest formal gowns at dress shops, boutiques, and teen clothing stores. Fortunately, there are several ways to turn an otherwise racy dress into a more modest selection.

• Add a cover. A saucy bolero, elegant shawl, faux fur wrap or even a well placed neck scarf can conceal a plunging neckline or back to make a gown more modest.
• Add modesty panels. A seamstress can easily create a suitable modesty panel to wear beneath an immodest dress. Panels can be made from matching or contrasting fabric or lace to add textural details and a unique style to the dress.
• Choose modest accessories. Even if the dress is daring, it will seem more modest if it is worn with sensible heels, classic jewelry, and other modest fashion accessories.
• Behave modestly. A young woman’s behavior is far more telling about her modesty than her attire. A soft voice, gentle smile, polite manners, and other modest behavior can offset the initial appearance of any dress.

Gallery of Modest Formal Dresses

Click on any of the pictures below to be taken to related picture galleries and informational articles about lovely teen fashion.

Modest Prom Dress	Punk Red Modest Dress	White Gown with Bolero
Vintage Prom Dress	Modest Halter Party Dress	Purple Shawl and Black Dress
High Backed Formal	Faux Fur Wrap	Modest Off the Shoulder Design