What does the Bible say about fashion?

In today’s world, people often look to trends and designers for guidance on what to wear. But what does the Bible say about fashion? Does Scripture offer any wisdom about how we should dress, and if so, how can believers apply these principles in modern life? This blog post explores the biblical perspective on fashion, modesty, and the deeper values that underlie our choices in clothing.

Fashion in the Old Testament

Throughout the Old Testament, clothing is often mentioned in relation to identity, status, and symbolism. For example, Joseph’s coat of many colors (Genesis 37:3) was a sign of his father’s special favor, while sackcloth and ashes were worn as signs of mourning and repentance (Esther 4:1). Priestly garments, described in detail in Exodus 28, were designed to set apart the priests and reflect the holiness and glory of God.

Yet, the Old Testament also cautions against focusing excessively on outward appearance. In 1 Samuel 16:7, when the prophet Samuel is sent to anoint a new king, God reminds him, “The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” This verse establishes a foundational biblical principle: while clothing can carry meaning, God values our inner character far more than our outward fashion choices.

Fashion and Modesty in the New Testament

The New Testament continues to offer guidance on how believers should approach fashion, with a particular emphasis on modesty and humility. In 1 Timothy 2:9-10, Paul writes, “I also want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, adorning themselves, not with elaborate hairstyles or gold or pearls or expensive clothes, but with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God.”

This passage does not mean that believers must avoid all beautiful or well-made clothing, but it does highlight the importance of prioritizing inner qualities over outward adornment. Similarly, 1 Peter 3:3-4 encourages believers not to let their “adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear—but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit.”

Clothing as Expression and Witness

The Bible never mandates a specific style of dress for all people, but it does encourage believers to think about how their clothing reflects their faith and values. In Colossians 3:12, Paul urges Christians to “clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” While this is a metaphor for spiritual virtues, it also serves as a reminder that what we "wear" spiritually is just as important as what we wear physically.

Believers are called to be mindful that their choices—including in fashion—can influence others and serve as a witness to their faith. Romans 14:13-21 discusses the importance of not causing others to stumble in their faith through our actions. This principle can be applied to fashion, encouraging Christians to dress in a way that is respectful of their community and honors God.

Balancing Cultural Trends and Biblical Values

Fashion trends change rapidly, and it can be challenging to navigate a world that often equates worth with appearance. The Bible does not prohibit enjoying fashion or expressing individuality through clothing. However, it consistently teaches that our ultimate identity and value do not depend on what we wear, but on who we are in Christ.

This perspective invites believers to enjoy fashion as a form of creativity and self-expression, while also being mindful not to let it become an idol or a source of pride. Instead, Christians are called to use their appearance to reflect God’s love, pursue modesty and humility, and prioritize the development of inner character.

Conclusion

For believers today, fashion can be enjoyed and appreciated, but it should always serve as an expression of the inner transformation that comes from faith in Christ, rather than as a measure of worth or status.