When I was a child, I relished the moments spent exploring my mother’s wardrobe, admiring her shoes and makeup. Those vibrant 80s fashions—with silky fabrics, sparkles, and oversized silhouettes—were a wonder, especially her striking red patent leather heels! My fascination with style extended to magazines like Young Miss, where I’d tear out pages of my favorite outfits to decorate my bedroom walls.
In 1985, I saved my allowance for months to buy a pair of pink Converse sneakers. I had scrunchies and hair bows in every shade imaginable and longed to wear blue eyeshadow and pantyhose at just five years old. While my mother set some boundaries, she embraced my love for all things girly and let me express myself.
Now, I have a daughter who mirrors my younger self in so many ways; it’s almost uncanny. She adores shopping with me and picking out outfits. Sometimes she takes charge, instructing me on what to wear and how to pose for photos. This playful bonding experience is delightful, and I treasure witnessing her authenticity. While some may dismiss fashion as trivial, my daughter finds joy and passion in it, and I feel fortunate that we share this interest. I believe it will strengthen our connection as she enters the complex teenage years that are just ahead.
Yes, my daughter is what many would describe as a “girly girl.” She loves dressing up, dancing, and has dreams of becoming a fashion designer, a basketball player, and a veterinarian. I wholeheartedly support her in all these aspirations—not just because we have that common ground, but because it reflects who she truly is. Her love for femininity has been evident since childhood; she gravitated towards Barbies, and I happily provided them, along with a basketball hoop and toy cars. While she enjoys a range of activities, her heart lies with the more feminine pursuits.
If my daughter were a tomboy or preferred quieter activities like reading, I would encourage that just the same. My goal is for all my children to embrace their true selves without feeling any shame. I want them to cultivate their passions, hobbies, and strengths.
As my kids grow and change, I will introduce them to new experiences while always supporting their genuine interests—the things that ignite their passion. It’s essential to me that they never feel their identities or their interests aren’t good enough for me or anyone else; as long as they are happy with who they are, that is what matters most.
I will always champion my daughter for being her authentic self, regardless of what that entails. I want her to know that her love for fashion, experimenting with outfits, and expressing herself through style doesn’t diminish her strength or intelligence. It’s just one of many reasons to feel empowered.
I also see her enthusiasm for fashion as a gateway to teach her about deeper values—that true beauty radiates from within. It’s our inner sense of self that we project into the world, regardless of whether we’re dressed in our favorite clothes or something more simplistic. And while I firmly believe that a stylish pair of shoes can elevate any outfit, what truly matters is the confidence and kindness we carry within.
This article was originally published on June 11, 2016, and connects to many themes we explore on our blog, including the importance of self-love and individuality. For more insights, you can check out one of our other blog posts here. Additionally, if you’re looking for information on enhancing fertility, this link offers great advice. And for a deeper understanding of family-building options, this resource is excellent.
Summary
Embracing my daughter’s “girly” tendencies is not just about fashion; it’s about supporting her individuality and encouraging her to love herself as she is. While I see her passion for style as a bonding experience, I also aim to instill in her the importance of inner beauty and self-acceptance. Regardless of how she chooses to express herself, I will always be there to uplift and celebrate her true self.