Women’s History Month: Celebrate through Simple Costumes and Timeless Portraits

I am not being original as I got this idea from another mom and daughter who did the same thing for Black History Month. I was inspired by the conversations some costumes and a camera could make. So Addy and I set out to capture who she believes are “strong and brave” women from history and fiction.

For each day during the month of March, Addy is dressing up as a different strong and brave woman. Before we gather the necessary attire, we read about the particular woman in her book, “Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls” by Elena Favilli and Francesca Cavallo. It was a gift from my cousin Sara, knowing that Addy would absorb the information and get excited about the possibilities. We have read it through many many times already. We’ve also consulted another book, “I Know A Woman” by Kate Hodges. This time, a gift from some beloved colleagues. This book emphasizes the connections between women, how behind one amazing woman is another woman.

For Addy’s first day, she chose to be Misty Copeland, first African American woman to become principle dancer for American Ballet Theatre in their 75 year history. Addy, like myself at her age, dreams of being a ballerina. Most specifically she wants to be Clara in The Nutcracker. Then on the other hand, she wants to be a hockey or basketball player like the professional women she adores and supports! Perhaps Sylvia Fowles will make an appearance this month.

After Misty Copeland, she became Joan Jett. Addy likes the rebellious nature of Joan and thinks playing a guitar is badass, not to mention being in a band by 15 years old. By Wednesday, she was Frida Kahlo. The eyebrows only lasted long enough for her teacher to see. She was afraid of being made fun of. Oh, if only she knew that she’ll be teased for any number of incidental and meaningless reasons. Breaks my heart, that at the young age of 6, she has already become self-conscious about her appearance. We’ll keep talking about it.

On Thursday of her first week, she became Cleopatra and loved all the make-up and gold. She loves bling, so she rocked this one all day long!

The last day of the week, I had the joy of dressing up myself. I volunteer in her classroom and wanted to be part of the fun! I went as Rosie the Riveter and Addy was Hermione Granger, with wand at the ready! She introduced each of us to her class and shared how these women are strong. Aside from the obvious wand, Hermione is smart and clever, a loyal friend and will break any rule for doing the right and honorable thing. Rosie was and is an inspiration for working women.

Looking forward to the next couple of weeks, she has a few outfits set aside: Jane Goodall, Rosie the Riveter, Lindsay Whalen (basketball player), Yoko Ono, Billie Jean King, Malala Yousafzai, Ms. Frizzle (Magic School Bus), Audrey Hepburn, Susan B. Anthony and Grace O’Malley (redheaded pirate). I’ll have to come up with a couple of women for the few more Fridays of the month. I’m considering Jane Austen and Gloria Steinem.

Ladies, who would you be for the day?

Here is a look at more portraits.

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It was fun to see how she evolved from famous, historical women to the ones from her everyday life. Of course, I was touched. But blown away is more appropriate!!! Her tribe is strong!