Be Grace

There's a great website for young girls and their mothers, http://www.purefashion.com/.  Their mission is to teach teens that it is possible to be stylishly feminine without succumbing to the current bare-it-all trend.  They offer a pdf with guidelines to consider when choosing an outfit.  Their guidelines are specific to the style show they designed, but offer much to women everywhere. 

The basic part of their pdf, Be Grace, reads:  "Our goal is to show the public that it is possible to be stylish, cute, and MODEST!  All styles should flatter the figure, but not draw extreme attention to any certain area."

Shirts
The neckline should not be lower than four fingers below the collarbone.
The material should not be sheer, very thin, or spandex.
Shirts should not be tight across the bust.
The shape of the bra should not be seen in the back (if visible, the shirt on top is too tight).
The backs should be modest. For example, no strappy backs, halter, or backless garments.
Tank tops should be modeled only with a shirt, jacket, or sweater over them.

Pants
Should not be too tight, especially in the seat or thigh area.
Should fit well, but not be skin-tight. One should be able to pull them away from the leg.
Shorts should be modest. When the arms are straight down at the side, the bottom of the shorts should be below the longest finger.
Make sure that "panty lines" are not visible. If necessary, wear pantyhose or a "thigh shaper" to create a smooth appearance in the clothing.

Skirts
Should not be very tight fitting.
Should not be constructed of a material that is too thin. If necessary, wear a slip.
Should not be shorter than four fingers above the top of the kneecap.

Dresses
Should follow the shirt guidelines.
No sleeveless, strapless, or spaghetti (or other thin strapped) dresses, even if worn with a wrap.
Dresses should have sleeves or be worn with a shrug.

Final Notes
Undergarments should never become outer garments. Bra straps should not be exposed, etc.

Too bad our teens didn't review this list before prom!