Daily Mirror (Sri Lanka)

WAYS TO ENCOURAGE YOUR TEENAGE DAUGHTER TO DRESS APPROPRIAT­ELY

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“EXCUSE ME YOUNG LADY, where do you think you're going in that outfit?” About ten years ago she wore corduroy overalls with a sunflower hat; now her drawers are filled with tank tops and short-shorts and she's got a pair of red flower high heels in her closet. Where did the little girl go? Think your daughter's outfits are a bit skimpy or her low rise jeans are a tad too low? First let's break it down to help you understand why teen girls do this, and how you can approach the situation!

With a lot more for them to –um “show”- it's harder to tell them to keep it under wraps. Don't worry parents, there's a subtler way to flaunt it without overexposi­ng and an even easier way to say it! One reason why teens will begin to dress differentl­y is because there are new physical elements we would like to show off. To be blunt: new curves= new style. It's all about an edgier look to accentuate our new bodies.

NOWWHATYOU’VEALLBEENW­AITING FOR:HOWTOADDRE­SSTHEPROBL­EM.

Okay, so if you think your prima donna is wearing clothing that is suggestive, casually bring it up in conversati­on mentioning her fashion sense. Use these tips:

Remember to not criticize your daughter, keep your cool (even if she doesn't.) Don't strike up the conversati­on when she's about to walk out the door before going to a party. Instead, a couple days before ask her to try on the outfit and make your comments then. (Just in case you have to make a trip to the store for an exchange.) Try asking them in a peaceful way if they think their clothing is appropriat­e for the occasion. It seems less attacking if you ask for their opinion as opposed to thrashing your thoughts on them. Keep in mind there's a time and place for everything; let them know that too! Daisy dukes are not for school, if they must, save it for the beach or around the house. And mini skits that are hip hugging are not for church. Teach them about dressing responsibl­y and that wearing suggestive clothes sends the wrong message. From time to time, compliment them on their outfit of choice if it looks nice; encouragem­ent goes a long way. Say “I recognize that you're growing up and I'm not trying to offend your style, but I don't think that outfit is suitable today. You have other great choices in your closet; can you please change your clothes?” Continue to instil appropriat­e dress to

your teenage daughter, it will pay off.

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