When I watched "The Evolution of the Swimsuit" video from Jessica Rey a few months ago, I was startled to hear that when the bikini was first released, it was so scandalous that models refused to wear it. It made me think how differently modesty is viewed today than it was viewed 60 years ago. I hadn't given much thought to this video until recently, when one woman's post on leggings, and the subsequent social reactions, demonstrated that the issues Jessica's video touches on--modesty and decency--are still very much on our minds.
Modern Girl Magazine stated in 1957 that "no girl with tact or decency would ever wear such a thing [a bikini]." Well, now, that's a harsh statement! I know that I myself have worn (and may still own) one or two in my day. But why is decency- "polite, moral and honest behavior and attitudes that show respect for other people" - tied to tact, which Merriam Webster's defines as "a keen sense of what to do or say in order to maintain good relations with others or avoid offense"?
I believe, as did Veronica Partridge, that keeping other's reactions to our appearances is respectful, decent behavior. So, I feel as God-fearing women that we must keep in mind men's reactions to our clothing choices when choosing our outfits (and buying clothing for our kids). "Decent" behavior demands we respect others and use good judgment in our behaviors.
Am I saying "Christians should never wear bikinis?" Absolutely not. Jesus rose from the dead to abolish life by letter of the law. What I am saying is that we need to keep respect for others in mind when presenting ourselves to the world. It is my belief that this is one way we can truly love the world.
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