Modest by Design

Eddie Gist is living proof that you cannot judge a book by its cover.  He is definitely not the kind of guy most people suppose him to be.  He grew up in Winston-Salem North Carolina, and he looks like the championship wrestler that he was in High School and college. And Eddie can seriously sew. Bridesmaids Dresses, Wedding Gowns, you name it he’s sewn it.   Eddie has always wanted to have his own clothing line. He started sewing in a Home Economics class in the 7th grade, and has been sewing ever since.  He graduated from high school with a tailoring certificate, and went on to receive a B.A. in Fashion Merchandising from Appalachian State University. After joining the Church, Eddie and his wife Heather found that they wanted to dress more modestly, but they quickly found that this would be more difficult than they thought.  After several fruitless trips to local malls, the Gists began wondering where and how they would find clothing that was modest without being frumpy. The Gist’s soon realized that this was their calling.  As they talked to others, they found that there are many people who are looking for clothing that is fashionable but does not compromise their values.  In 1999, the Gist’s decided to leave Eddie’s retail job of 8 years, and started Modest by Design Clothing Company.  They launched the companies’ web-site www.modestbydesign.com in April of 2000.  The first store opened in 2002, with a second coming in Aug. 2004. Over the 5 years that they have been in business they have truly been blessed by support from Christians of many different denominations as well as members of the Islamic and Jewish faiths.  They have felt the support of their Heavenly Father to continue to bless his children by providing more choices.  This has strengthened their resolve to continue the quest to search for and design modest clothing.  Mission Statement:We at Modest by Design believe that dressing modestly shows respect not only for ones self but for God and his commandments.  We also believe that we can set an example for the world that it is possible to dress modestly as well as fashionably.  We will strive to provide our customers with quality clothing and great customer service.  Above all, we will serve God with all of our heart, mind, might, and strength.