Dear Mikaela,

I love clothes, and I recently started rocking thigh-high socks, micro-mini skirts, and tops that are vaguely reminiscent of corsets. My friends say my new look is superhot. My parents, however, say I look kind of like stripper.  They’re constantly telling me that I am “showing too much skin” and will “attract the wrong kind of attention.” How do I calm my parents without giving up my new style?

Sincerely,

In Vogue

Dear Vogue,

It sounds like you’ve discovered the double-edged sword of dressing provocatively.  On the one hand, you think you look good, your friends say you look good, and you undoubtedly get more attention from guys.  On the other hand, your parents don’t like it, and they’re vocal about their concerns.  At the risk of sounding preachy (I certainly have been told to put on a sweater once or twice…), are you maybe taking this newfound independence a little far? I have devised a small quiz to help you answer this question:

Have you ever been asked if you “work” on Sunset Boulevard?

Can you actually walk in the heels you wear?

Do people mistake your dresses for shirts or skirts for belts?

Is your top made entirely of mesh, lace or something equally see-through?

Are you under the impression that the length of your uniform skirt is an appropriate length for a normal skirt?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, then your parents may have a point: tone it DOWN, girl.  However, if you are in fact just experimenting, maybe have a conversation with your parents about what it is you’re trying to achieve with this look (hint: don’t start out with your desire to look sexayyy).  Just talk to them.  If they know what’s going on in your head, they’re less likely to care about what you put on your body.

Love,

Mikaela