Erica Campbell has no problem pronouncing that she is a woman of God, a wife and mother of three children. But let’s face it; this picture also says she is confident, hot and (forgive me Lord and Highly Sanctified Holy-Ghost Filled Saints)…sexy.
Sexy is a taboo word in the Christian Community. Even though it may be mentioned, it generally has a negative connotation attached, yielding negative results. Primarily, because many people contrast the term to 1Timothy 2:9-10 which refers to, “Women should adorn themselves in modest apparel.”
The problem is that modest is up for interpretation. What you think is modest and others think is modest may differ. The question, “How much is too much?” is controversial and one that seems to change depending on where you go and who you entertain in conversation.
Now, this picture is the promotional photo for the release of Campbell’s album and follows her debut single, “Just a little more Jesus,” as well as a Grammy nomination.
Based on my observation I see two messages:
This is another representation of Christian women’s daily battle between following fashion trends and exemplifying their faith—especially among women that want to remain relevant in today’s society.
As a young Christian woman and image consultant, I am also on this battlefield to ensure that I do try not to compromise my faith when it comes to fashion, while still remaining true to myself and not feeling like I have to look like Mary Poppins.
Yes, Campbell’s dress does remind me of a Kim Kardashian ensemble. I don’t want to be Kim Kardashian; I want to be who God has created ME to be! However; I must admit, I do like the concept of Kardashian’s style to embrace her curves. Until the church admits there is an evolving generation of believers just like me and learns to embrace us, as well as how to properly address this concern, The Body of Christ will never be free. At the same time, my generation needs to take responsibility for our choices and be open to receive wise council.
There is no better way to gain buzz or promote an album called, “Help Me,” than to wear a dress that would cause discussion in the Christian Community.
Remember, the lead song refers to needing “Just a LITTLE More Jesus.” What better way to support the foundation of this project than present her own struggle of asking Jesus for help in choosing her clothing? Had Erica Campbell come out with a huge open v-neck to her inner courts, people would have argued that she needed A LOT more Jesus. So, this dress—while not displaying actual skin in private areas—is still a play on artist publicity and promotion, while exemplifying the REAL Christian woman’s desire to embrace her femininity.
The bottom line: I realize that Erica Campbell’s attire on this album cover is not for everyone. But, if this dress is any indication of how much Jesus she needs, then I need a little more myself.
Sexy is a taboo word in the Christian Community. Even though it may be mentioned, it generally has a negative connotation attached, yielding negative results. Primarily, because many people contrast the term to 1Timothy 2:9-10 which refers to, “Women should adorn themselves in modest apparel.”
The problem is that modest is up for interpretation. What you think is modest and others think is modest may differ. The question, “How much is too much?” is controversial and one that seems to change depending on where you go and who you entertain in conversation.
Now, this picture is the promotional photo for the release of Campbell’s album and follows her debut single, “Just a little more Jesus,” as well as a Grammy nomination.
Erica Campbell: We Need Just A Little More Jesus (Dress Opinion) |
This is another representation of Christian women’s daily battle between following fashion trends and exemplifying their faith—especially among women that want to remain relevant in today’s society.
As a young Christian woman and image consultant, I am also on this battlefield to ensure that I do try not to compromise my faith when it comes to fashion, while still remaining true to myself and not feeling like I have to look like Mary Poppins.
Yes, Campbell’s dress does remind me of a Kim Kardashian ensemble. I don’t want to be Kim Kardashian; I want to be who God has created ME to be! However; I must admit, I do like the concept of Kardashian’s style to embrace her curves. Until the church admits there is an evolving generation of believers just like me and learns to embrace us, as well as how to properly address this concern, The Body of Christ will never be free. At the same time, my generation needs to take responsibility for our choices and be open to receive wise council.
There is no better way to gain buzz or promote an album called, “Help Me,” than to wear a dress that would cause discussion in the Christian Community.
Remember, the lead song refers to needing “Just a LITTLE More Jesus.” What better way to support the foundation of this project than present her own struggle of asking Jesus for help in choosing her clothing? Had Erica Campbell come out with a huge open v-neck to her inner courts, people would have argued that she needed A LOT more Jesus. So, this dress—while not displaying actual skin in private areas—is still a play on artist publicity and promotion, while exemplifying the REAL Christian woman’s desire to embrace her femininity.
The bottom line: I realize that Erica Campbell’s attire on this album cover is not for everyone. But, if this dress is any indication of how much Jesus she needs, then I need a little more myself.