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Dear Fashion Girl,

Dear Fashion Girl,

I am 15 years old and into the Gothic scene - I listen to the music, wear a lot of black, and have Goth friends. My parents think I'm doing things behind their back and they won't leave me alone about the way I dress! How can I get them to understand that this is how I am and that I won't "grow out of it" and stop dressing this way?

Thank You, GloomGurl

Dear GloomGurl,

Welcome to the beginning of a love-hate relationship between your parents and your wardrobe! Your parents are surely worried about the image of "Goth" that the media portrays. The Gothic scene is especially repulsive to many parents because of its fascination with dark things and rebellion against all that is conservative. So if you have parents that love and care about you (we all could use a pair of those)...you have to expect some concern. Ease their troubled minds by emphasizing that you are not involved in drugs, satanic rituals, or diabolical deviant plans. They will need to be reassured about this many times. Be honest with them about where you go and who you hang out with. Bring your friends home so your parents can get to know that they aren't cult recruiters. Invite your mom or dad into your room to chat about what's up in your life. Every now and then, compromise by wearing something they chose for you, like a T-shirt, a pair of tights, or a necklace. They will appreciate being involved in your wardrobe. Tell them how important it is for you to express yourself through clothing. Work at it, and your parents will begin to lighten up and accept your preference for the dark!

Sincerely, Fashion Girl