| Article Index |
|---|
| Parents Say She's A Sloppy Dresser |
| Read the Advice |
| All Pages |
Dear Jen,
How frustrating, to be "best dressed" at school but accused of being slovenly at home! I can see how that's confusing and annoying.
Here's my idea. Sit down with your parents when they have some time to talk, and tell them that this issue is really bothering you. They've been talking about it a lot, but they may not understand that their remarks are actually hurting your feelings.
Explain that your friends see you as a stylish person, and trot out that best dressed award to show them. Tell your folks that looking good is quite important to you, and that if you slack off at home, it's just because you know your parents will love you unconditionally, whether you look like a slob or a supermodel.
Then ask your parents exactly what they wish you'd do in terms of dressing yourself for around the house. Get them to be specific - is it bugging them that you spend whole weekend days in your pajamas, or do they have something against sweatpants? Once you know exactly what their issue is, it shouldn't be too hard to come up with a compromise. Make a deal with them that you'll change into "day clothes" by 10 am on Saturdays, or that you won't leave your bedroom without getting dressed (even if just in jeans and a tee). Of course, they'll have to adhere to these rules too.
If you can keep an open mind, and go into this with a will to get along better - and not just "win" the argument - I'm sure you guys can come up with a compromise solution that makes everyone feel happier in the house.
