With the popularity of reality television and all of the news programs out there about wild teenage girl behavior, it’s hard to believe that there are still modest young ladies left in the world. But they’re there! And it’s time they let their voices be heard. Dressing and behaving modestly is a way of life for millions of girls across America and they have just as much right to find beautiful formal dresses to wear to special events as anyone else. Thank goodness retailers are taking notice, and now: modest doesn’t have to mean dowdy! Here’s what to look for when shopping for a modest formal dress.

The Neckline

Plunging necklines and backs have come standard on most young adult formal wear for years now, but you don’t have to show a lot of cleavage to look beautiful and sexy. Choose a scoop neck if you have a short neck, need to balance a pear-shaped figure, or have a small bust. V-necks are the most flattering selection for everyone: choose a steep-angled V shape if you want to look slimmer. A modified sweetheart neckline is hugely popular: the shape is straight at the sides and straight across, but it doesn’t have the plunge or breast-contouring shape of the traditional sweetheart.

The Sleeve

If baring your shoulders makes you uncomfortable, most purveyors of modest styles offer dresses with a demure yet young-looking compromise: the cap sleeve. A cap sleeve is fitted to fit the shoulder’s contour in a feminine fashion, yet does not hang too low or leave the uppermost part of the arm exposed. It is appropriate for both formal and semi-formal wear and in all kinds of weather: if it snows, simply add a little jacket!

The Fabric and Cut

To achieve a more modest look, stay away from clingy materials such as polyester blends. Silk and silk-like fabrics are not only beautiful, they also drape across the hips and buttocks in a flattering way, showing shape while not revealing too much. Empire-waist cuts flatter all figure types since they are loose and flowing at the bottom. If there will be dancing involved at the big event, make sure to keep that in mind when selecting the cut of the dress.

The Length

The most flattering length for most modest gowns is knee-length or just above the knee. Try to avoid styles that come down to mid-shin since they tend to make the body appear shorter.

Take the time to shop around online and see what’s available in today’s modest dress styles: you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the wide selection of colors and designs that are out there.

Beautifully Modest (http://www.beautifullymodest.com/) designing Modest dresses that reflected the latest in fashion and design. Art Gib is a freelance writer.

[tags]modest formal dresses[/tags]