I don't know many young kids today. I taught high school for a few years but didn't find the kids any more or less self conscious than I was as a teen. I went to a school with a uniform as a kid, so we didn't have much fashion sense. My family didn't have much money, so I don't remember being overly fashion conscious back then but I'm sure I was to an extent. I don't think it's too much different. I don't really like all of the comparisons of the past being so much better than the present. It has many drawbacks, one of which our memories are notorious for remembering the good and forgetting the bad. I can say, oh I was never that way, when in fact, I might have been but just don't remember it. I can remember wanting leg warmers and tapered leg jeans (all of which are oddly coming back in fashion - eek).

Many kids, especially girls, like to play dress up. I don't think that this has changed over time. Now though there are more products directed to these play times as opposed to before when we would have to create our own dress up costumes by going through mom or grandmom's clothes.

I don't have any problems with it now. However, catch me in a few more years when my daughter reaches that age and ask me again. My answer may change if I have to struggle to keep her in check.