Embracing Modesty with Style: My Journey with Long Skirts, Baggy Clothes, and Mom Jeans

Embracing Modesty with Style: My Journey with Long Skirts, Baggy Clothes, and Mom Jeans

There’s something undeniably special about fashion that speaks to who you are. For me, my love for long skirts, baggy clothes, and mom jeans isn’t just about style—it’s deeply rooted in my upbringing as a Seventh-day Adventist. Growing up, modesty wasn’t just a suggestion; it was a rule. Clothes that revealed too much—cleavage, thighs, even underarms—were simply off-limits. And trust me, there was no sneaking around it! Deacons at church would politely send you home to change if your outfit didn’t meet the “code.”

At first, dressing modestly felt like following rules, as though my fashion choices were prescribed rather than desired. I remember feeling a bit confined, like I was missing out on the freedom of style others seemed to enjoy. But as I grew older, I discovered that modesty and style could blend beautifully—and perhaps unexpectedly, this became my creative outlet. Long skirts and loose-fitting clothes allowed me to feel elegant, chic, and completely comfortable in my own skin—no compromises required. Looking back, I realize that this journey toward self-expression, even within the boundaries of modest fashion, was my way of embracing my identity.

My modest fashion journey also connected deeply with a need for confidence. You see, having dealt with some painful experiences with bullying, I was already leaning toward clothes that made me feel protected. Covering up became my armor, my way of feeling safe. But I wanted to be more than just "covered up"; I wanted to feel beautiful. So, I started experimenting, blending vintage-inspired pieces that felt timeless with everyday comfort. I began building a wardrobe of flowy skirts, mom jeans, and oversized sweaters that let me feel stylish, strong, and undeniably me.

Then, life brought me to Japan, where fashion is a language of its own. I quickly noticed how many Japanese women chose comfort, elegance, and subtlety over flashy trends, and how layering was practically an art form here. This approach aligned perfectly with everything I loved about modesty. Long skirts, loose pants, and creative layering options were not only accepted but celebrated. It was like finding a fashion twin on the other side of the world! The idea that I didn’t need to bare skin to feel confident or beautiful was reinforced. I saw how a high-waisted pair of pants with a cozy cardigan or a flowy midi dress layered with a chic jacket could exude just as much style and presence.

When I dress now, there’s a sense of ease, a feeling of authenticity. I’ve found tricks along the way that help me bring a fresh, elegant look to each outfit. Balancing proportions, for example, allows me to keep my outfits visually interesting. If I’m going for a loose top, I’ll pair it with fitted jeans or a sleek skirt, and with wider-leg pants, I like to tuck in my blouse or add a structured jacket. It’s a subtle way of keeping the outfit intentional without compromising comfort.

Layering has also become a favorite part of my style routine. I love pairing different textures and colors—a soft turtleneck under a chunky jumper or a cardigan over a simple button-down. This creates an outfit that feels cozy yet sophisticated. There’s something about the look and feel of these layered pieces, especially when done with textures that catch the eye but are muted in color, that feels like a quiet expression of who I am.

And while my look is vintage-inspired, I never shy away from adding a bit of a modern twist. It might be a pair of sleek, chunky sneakers paired with a pleated skirt or a statement belt to elevate the waistline of an oversized dress. These touches of today keep the look fresh without clashing with the classic, modest pieces I love.

The colors I choose are another way I make my wardrobe feel like me. Dressing modestly doesn’t mean limiting myself to dark or neutral shades. I enjoy playing with jewel tones, pastel hues, and vibrant splashes of color that bring life to my outfits. A deep green skirt or a blush pink sweater can add personality without needing to reveal anything.

My wardrobe has its essentials, pieces that I keep on hand to create looks that feel elegant and versatile. Long skirts in various styles—pleated, flowy, or even pencil—let me mix and match, while oversized sweaters and cardigans are my go-to for cozy, layered looks. Mom jeans and high-waisted pants keep things vintage and chic, and structured blazers add an extra polish. Midi and maxi dresses in soft, simple patterns are perfect for layering, and stylish belts help define my waist in looser fits, adding just a touch of shape.

Accessories are the final touch that let my personality shine. Hats, scarves, and bold jewelry can transform a simple outfit. Whether it’s a vintage brooch, a pair of statement earrings, or a chunky scarf, these small details help me feel polished without stepping away from modesty.

And so, dressing modestly isn’t a restriction; it’s become a means of self-discovery, a way of choosing what empowers me. My style reflects the confidence, self-love, and creativity that took years to build. I’ve realized that I don’t need to show skin to feel fabulous—fashion is more than that. It’s an expression of who we are inside. The clothes we wear can reflect our comfort, confidence, and true sense of beauty.

"Modesty isn’t about hiding yourself—it’s about discovering a style that lets you shine from within."