What's a mom to do when caught between her 'tween daughter's need to look as stylish as the stars and a parent's need to have her daughter dress appropriately?
Girls age nine to 12 years-old are more sophisticated than ever and already have strong opinions about what they want to wear. Furthermore, they are bombarded with images of scantily-clad celebrities, some of whom they may even admire.
Rather than cave in entirely — what parent really feels good about doing that? Or locking your daughter away for 10 years until it's time to go to college, here are some guidelines to ensure a happy, stylish daughter... and just as important, a happy and satisfied mom.
The Do's:
- Do shop age-appropriate stores and age-appropriate brands.
- Do be sensitive to your child's wish to fit in.
- Do encourage her personal expression in style and help her experiment.
- Do be alert to factors influencing your child's style choices.
- When you say "no," do be ready with some good alternatives.
The Don'ts:
- Don't copy adult looks head to toe for your 'tween.
- Don't have your head in the sand about your 'tweens style influences. (Bone up on what Britney and Lindsay are wearing.)
- Don't allow your 'tween to wear sexually suggestive clothes. (She may look like a teenager but she's still a little girl.)
- Don't indulge your 'tweens designer-price taste. There are plenty of affordable designer-inspired fashions around.
Sources for great 'tween fashions:
- Polo Ralph Lauren
- Baby Phat
- RocaWear
- Tommy Hilfiger
- Guess
- Oililly
- Keds
- Nike
- Puma
- Old Navy
- Mandees
- Target
- H&M
- Macys
- Bloomingdale's
- eBay.com