On modesty of dress

Observations by St. John Chrysostom in 398 A.D. confirm the problem of scandal is not new to the Church. Upon his arrival in Constantinople after being appointed bishop, he encountered scandals and conditions needing reform. In dealing with it, he called attention to a seldom-mentioned catalyst in the formula of scandal: the boldness and conduct of women who target priests and religious in sensual ways to bolster their own vanity and pride. When challenged on their role in the matter, they alleged themselves innocent. The bishop’s reaction to what he found, as chronicled in the 1954 edition of Butler’s Lives of the Saints, prompted a hard-hitting discourse that helped turn things around.

Quotes on the need for modesty in women’s attire

by St. John Chrysostom, Bishop
(c.344-407)

Says an account in Butler’s Lives of the saints:

“He was especially indignant at the immodest dress and conduct of women and their use of purple, silks, and jewels. He observed that “their veils were not worn as modest coverings and symbols of penance, but rather they wore thin veils in ways to attract the eyes of others.” St. John referred to these as, in some respects, “worse than public prostitutes: for these hide their baits at home only for the wicked: “but you”, he said: “carry your snare everywhere, and spread your nets publicly in all places”.

“You allege that you never invite others to sin. You did not by your tongue, but you have done it by your dress and deportment more effectively than you could by your voice. When you have made another to sin in his heart, how can you be innocent? You sharpened and drew the sword. You gave the thrust by which the soul is wounded.”

“Tell me whom does the world condemn? Whom do judges punish? Those who drink the poison, or those who prepare and give the fatal draught? You mingled the execrable cup; you administered the potion of death. You are so much more criminal than poisoners, as the death which you cause is the more terrible; for you murder not the body, but the soul.”

“Nor do you do this to enemies: not compelled by necessity nor provoked by any injury; but out of a foolish vanity and pride. You sport yourselves in the ruin of the souls of others, and make their spiritual death your pastime.”

Source: Butler’s Lives of the Saints (Vol. I ), The Catholic Press, 1954