I like this answer a lot. Thumbs up to C&F. I have so many problems with the idea that the answer to sexism is to eschew or even ban anything that might be associated with femininity. I cheered at Is masculinity more neutral than femininity?

I think the mother is relatively sensible here; her concept of gender neutral is refrain from commenting on her appearance and clothing ... to instead focus on skills or interests. And she was willing to support her daughter's fascination with all things pink and girly, understanding that forcing a kid to reflect their parents' tastes is a bigger problem than the fact that society has weird views about dresses. The father sounds borderline misogynist, frankly.