Shades of Self: How Blue and Beyond Redefine Femininity

The vast expanse of the ocean, the dreamy shade of a cotton candy sky, the rich aroma of freshly baked blueberry muffins, and the understated charm of Eeyore—all of these are tied together by one color: blue. Often cast aside in favor of traditionally feminine pinks and pastels, blue has emerged as a profound symbol of comfort and a nuanced expression of femininity for me. By embracing blue, we open the door to a deeper, more individualized understanding of femininity—one that moves beyond superficial norms and honors authenticity in every aspect.

I choose to wear my blue bows with pride, refusing to let superficial standards dictate what femininity should be. Embracing blue means embracing a version of femininity that is rich and complex, not limited by traditional expectations. I am feeling blue through and through, and I see that as a beautiful reflection of my identity.

There’s nothing inherently wrong with pink—its light, airy quality is undeniably charming and trustworthy. But femininity shouldn’t be simplified to any one color or stereotype. Yellow, purple, orange, and green—all can embody femininity in their own unique ways, reflecting the diverse and multifaceted nature of what it means to be a woman. Embracing this spectrum allows us to celebrate a richer, more inclusive understanding of femininity, one that honors each individual’s personal journey and self-expression.

It’s important to remember that being feminine isn’t confined to fitting a traditional mold of being small, quiet, and petite. Those old stereotypes don’t capture the full spectrum of what it means to be a woman.

True femininity embraces a wide range of characteristics, from being outspoken and assertive to being strong and confident. Whether you are tall, bold, or unafraid to voice your opinions, your expression of femininity is just as valid and beautiful. This understanding of femininity is reflected in my own experiences; I am feminine not just in moments of softness or perfect appearances, but also in my raw, unfiltered emotions. I am feminine when I cry deeply, when I scream in frustration, or when exhaustion overtakes me and I collapse into bed without washing my face. 

I’ve learned not to be ashamed when my femininity expresses itself in ways that might be labeled negatively, like being called “bossy” for showing leadership or “emotional” when I express passion. These are all valid expressions of who I am. Each moment, each shade of femininity, contributes to the full picture of my identity.

My femininity persists even when I’m not gentle, when anger drives me to shout at the top of my lungs. True womanhood isn’t defined by conforming to traditional molds or the colors I wear but by the diverse experiences that have shaped me. As a little girl who loved playing in the dirt and roughhousing with my siblings, I was just as much a girl then as I am in quieter, more conventional expressions of femininity. True womanhood is defined not by superficial appearances or stereotypes but by the depth of our personal experiences and emotions, celebrating the many unique ways women express their authentic selves.

In embracing the full spectrum of colors and experiences, we recognize that femininity is not a one-size-fits-all concept but a deeply personal and varied expression.

Whether through the serene calm of blue or the vibrant energy of other hues, our true selves shine through. By rejecting narrow definitions and celebrating the full range of what it means to be feminine, we empower ourselves and others to live authentically and fully.