When it comes to parenting, the stereotypes surrounding fathers often fall flat. In 2016, writer and dad Ethan Harper noticed a troubling trend in clothing for fathers, particularly shirts with phrases like “Shoot the first one and the word will spread,” or “It’s just locker room talk.” Instead of simply sighing at the absurdity, Harper took action, launching his own line of empowering, stereotype-busting shirts for dads called Everyday Girl Dad. Get ready to empty your wallet because you’ll want to snag these for every father figure in your life.
Harper shares that his own bond with his daughters, 7-year-old Mia and 5-year-old Zoe, defies traditional expectations. “The stereotype of dads as protectors against boyfriends doesn’t reflect the reality of our relationship,” he explains. “My daughters are incredibly strong, and I want the messages on my shirts to convey that men can also admire and look up to women.”
Importantly, Harper emphasizes that wearing his shirts doesn’t imply a lack of concern for his daughters’ safety. “The messages I promote don’t mean I don’t care about their future or worry for them,” he clarifies. “Instead, they reflect my intention to cultivate a different kind of relationship—one that respects their autonomy rather than treating them as possessions.” His designs effectively highlight where a dad might stand on the parenting spectrum.
Beyond merely supporting girls and women, Harper aspires for his shirts to inspire men and boys to reconsider any rigid gender roles they might comfortably inhabit. “While I recognize the challenges girls face, I’m also acutely aware of the narrow confines we place on boys. Masculinity can be diverse; it can encompass emotions, creativity, and self-expression, just as much as it can include traditional sports,” he asserts.
Harper hopes that one day, his shirt sales can contribute to organizations that align with the values he promotes. “Once I’ve covered my operating costs, I plan to donate profits to groups that advocate for healthier concepts of masculinity or support victims of sexual assault,” he shares. “I’m not a professional fundraiser or designer, but I believe I can make a difference.”
One particular shirt, “The Dad Who Cries When Bing Bong Dies,” always elicits reactions when he wears it in public. “That scene from Inside Out is just heartbreaking,” he laughs.
Ultimately, Harper’s vision is for his shirts to encourage fathers to embrace a multifaceted approach to parenting. “Share your experiences of science projects, reading stories, or jumping in leaves. It’s these moments of connection, not the rejection of emotions, that define true masculinity,” he encourages.
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In summary, Ethan Harper’s Everyday Girl Dad shirts are more than just clothing; they are a movement aimed at redefining fatherhood and challenging outdated stereotypes. Through his designs, he encourages fathers to forge deeper relationships with their daughters while advocating for a more inclusive understanding of masculinity.