Modesty Standards

This page is provided so that you may know what to expect as you shop for patterns at Keeping Home.

Some of my standards are very firm convictions that are not likely to change. Others are are more subjective and flexible, and represent my current opinions of what appears to be appropriate.

This list is not intended to be judgemental, or even instructive, to anyone who's beliefs and opinions about modest dress differ from my own beliefs and opinions. It is merely to assist you in your shopping.

1. Patterns are potentially modest according the the following standards in at least one view but not necessarily all views.
2. Patterns are potentially modest. That is, they appear to provide sufficient coverage. The photographs are all I have to go on. If a design looks "iffy" to you, make it up in a test fabric and alter it if necessary.
   
3. Skirts and dresses must be below the knee.
4. "No slits" is preferred, but slits are not outlawed. Slits (and kick pleats) will always be "declared."
   
5. Bodices (ladies blouses, shirts, dress tops) must not be low cut in the front or in the back (please see #2).
   
6. How revealing garments may be depends on what they are. For example, some lingerie is quite revealing--but it isn't meant for wearing in public anyway.
7. Sleeveless garments are permitted (though unlikely) for infants, toddlers, and young children, but not for older persons (except for sleepwear, swimwear, etc.).
8. Lingerie will always be tasteful and modest (obviously, in this case "modest" has nothing to do with coverage--it's about attitude).
   
9. Pants are permitted for women and girls, and shorts are permitted for everyone.
10. Care is taken to avoid patterns that are tight and figure-hugging.
11. I aim for classic, modern, feminine/masculine (as appropriate), simple, becoming, sensible, restful, comfortable, practical, tasteful, and interesting.
    
12. I aim away from trendy, fashion-conscious, old-fashioned (modernized versions of designs of the past are fine, of course), uncomfortable, impractical, bold, forward, daring, highly-decorated, attention-grabbing, unfeminine/unmasculine, weird, revealing, dull, and undignified.