On the Subject of Trendiness

Trendy

A word I seem to hear often.  Even in my conservative Christian circle, I hear reference to that particular word......

“Surely I can dress modestly and still be trendy!” 

As a Christian woman, concerned with the issue of modesty, what is the motivation for dressing in a trendy style?

Whatever excuse you may make for yourself, it is basically because you wish to be accepted by the world.  To fit in and not be considered a freak or different.  Even though we are to be set apart, to be in the world, but not of it, the truth is, all too often we are enticed by what the world has to offer. 

Otherwise, why would it matter so much.

Why base your self-worth on something that's here today and gone tomorrow?

The definition of “trendy”:

1.  very fashionable; up-to-date
2.  marked by ephemeral, superficial, or faddish appeal or taste

How many times have we looked at fashions past, commented on how ugly or foolish some fads were, and before we know it, that same style is back.  Those who vehemently were against such style, now think "it's the cutest thing EVER!"  Really?  Because it's only going to fade away yet again and you'll look back thinking "why did I ever give in to that stupid trend?"

 But who determines style, trends, and fashion?  The world!  Enter the eternal struggle of Christians claiming to be in the world, but not of it.  The subject of “trend” or what’s “in style” has always been a stumbling block.  It is not for us to “lust” after the world and their rules, but to concern ourselves with the will of God.  And who really cares what we wear?  The world?  Is it really worth it?

Let me just say, that I am not against finding a style that suits you, whether it’s something that is currently trendy, or something that is considered out-dated.  Why not dress in a manner that is not only pleasing to the Lord, your brothers and sisters in Christ, but still holds true to your personality.  Be your own style, and make it who you are, not who the world thinks you should be.  I believe we can dress in a way that appeals to wholesomeness, modesty, and good taste and still not be "freakish".  Dressing appropriately doesn’t mean you have to give up personal style, but it does mean that you may have to give up the latest trend.

1 John 2:15-17

"Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.  For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.  And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever."