I’m Not Apologizing for Supporting My Daughter’s Love for All Things ‘Girly’

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When I was a kid, I had a blast rummaging through my mom’s closet, trying on her shoes and experimenting with her makeup. It was the fabulous ’80s, and she had all sorts of silky, sparkly, and poofy outfits—not to mention those iconic red patent leather heels! I was obsessed. I would flip through my Young Miss magazine and meticulously tear out my favorite fashion images to plaster on my bedroom walls.

In 1985, I saved my allowance for months to buy a pair of pink Converse sneakers—because obviously, pink was a must. I adorned my hair with bows and scrunchies of every hue, and by the time I was five, I had dreams of rocking pantyhose and blue eyeshadow. My mom didn’t let me go all out with the makeup, but she embraced my girly spirit and allowed me to express myself.

Now, I have a daughter, and let me tell you, it’s like looking in a mirror. She adores shopping with me and picking out outfits, and sometimes she even tells me what to wear and how to pose for her impromptu photo shoots. It’s an absolute blast, and I cherish every moment. Sure, some people might dismiss fashion as trivial, but for my daughter, it’s a passion, and I feel incredibly fortunate that we can share this.

Yes, my daughter is what many would label a “girly girl.” She loves dressing up, enjoys dancing, and aspires to be a fashion designer, basketball player, and veterinarian. And you know what? I wholeheartedly encourage all of it. Not just because she’s like me, though that’s a bonus, but because this is authentically who she is. From an early age, she gravitated towards Barbies, so I happily indulged her. I also got her a basketball hoop and toy cars. She appreciates those too, but nothing lights her up quite like her feminine treasures.

If my daughter were more of a tomboy or preferred curling up with a book, I’d support that just as fiercely. My goal is to help all my children embrace who they are without shame. I want to nurture their strengths, hobbies, and passions.

As my kids grow and change, I’ll be there to introduce them to new interests, but I’ll always champion the things that light their internal fire. I never want them to feel like their interests—whatever they may be—aren’t good enough for me or anyone else. The only approval they need is their own.

I’ll always stand by my daughter as she embraces her identity, no matter how it manifests. I want her to know that she’s strong and intelligent, regardless of her love for fashion and beauty. Feeling empowered is essential for many reasons, and this is just one of them.

I’ll also seize her passion for all things “girly” as a chance to teach her what really matters: that inner beauty is far more important than any outfit. The way we feel about ourselves from the inside is what we radiate to the world, whether we’re decked out in our favorite ensemble or sporting a potato sack. But hey, let’s be real—a cute pair of shoes never hurts!

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Summary:

This article celebrates the author’s journey as a mother who encourages her daughter to embrace her girly side, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and the joy of shared interests. The author reflects on her own childhood experiences and highlights the significance of nurturing individuality in children, regardless of whether they lean towards femininity or other interests.