When I was younger, I used to believe that what you wore, what your hairstyle was, and how much jewelry you wear, defined who you were. Years later, if someone were to look at me, they would probably assume I'm a troublemaker because of my shaved punk/rock hair, my piercings, and desire to get tattoos.

If younger-me saw present-day-me, she would wonder what devil possessed me. Perhaps not to that extreme, but my point still stands. I grew up in a Hispanic household in Latin America so dressing in "improper" clothing automatically gave you a bad label. Sure, the new generations have a more open view, making it up to us teach the older generation that evil is not shown through clothing.

The struggle most people deal with when finding their own style is receiving approval from their parents. I mean, how many of you have received a quick "yes" from your parents for a tattoo, or a piercing? Heck, my parents went bonkers over a hair dye.

At first, they did not like the changes I was making to my appearance. My father feared I was going to end up in the wrong crowd because of what I look like. His comment left me thinking. For starters, I would not get involved with the bad crowd unless I personally sought them out (which I didn't). What truly defines me is personality and how I was raised. I could have my entire body tattoed and be the kindest person on Earth.

Appearances fool people, therefore assuming someone's personality because of their look is not always a nice thing to do. Embrace who you are, explore what makes you feel comfortable in your skin. Your folks might not like it, but reassure them you are still the person they saw grow.

However, if your family already had a vision of how they wanted you to be, it will be hard for them to accept your appearance changes. To be honest, I don't like how there are some parents who dream of a ballerina daughter while she wants to be a skater girl. Some see the "failures" of their child is caused by their apparel.