It’s hard to believe, but Nelle’s first graduation is just around the corner.

She’s almost 13 (turning on the 28th of May!), and this feels like one of those big milestones that sneaks up on you—even though you’ve seen it coming on the calendar for months. Dresses are being chosen, hairstyles imagined… and the very important question has been raised:
with or without socks? 😄
It’s funny how such a small detail becomes the decision of the season. And honestly, I kind of love that this is where we’re at—on the edge between childhood and teenagerhood. That magical in-between space where she’s growing up but still very much herself.
Art school graduation will be a proud moment for us all. For now, I’m just soaking in the preparation, the anticipation, and yes—even the sock debates.
What do you think?
Ilze
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I like no socks, but socks are fashionable.
Good to see Lativa end up on the ‘left’ of the results table!
Thank you! I totally agree—sometimes no socks just feels right, but I love that socks can also be a style choice these days. And yes! Latvia is on the left side of the table—finally! 🎉 Did you remember Germany’s song?
I liked the German song.
Linna loves it, voted for it!
First of all congratulations.
I would say without socks.
Thank you so much! No socks seems to be the clear favorite! Let’s hope the weather agrees with that plan 😄 Do you remember what you wore for your own graduation or a special event at that age?
It wore a casual but elegant suit. That was very long ago 🤣
How long? 🙂
1990 (Design) and 2020 (Ornithology).
either is great, the longer the dress, without socks may look better.
This dress is lovely, Nelle loves it, and it’s not that short :). Will see if she chooses socks or not 🙂
She’ll be happy you let her decide! Many parents don’t give their children enough decision making as they grow up and that’s the very thing they need to tackle life on their own confidently.
Thank you—I really hope so! It’s not always easy to step back, but I believe giving her space to choose helps her trust herself. Life throws enough challenges as it is, so I want her to feel capable and confident in her own path.
Congrats to Nelle! The first of many accomplishments, I’m sure. As for the socks, it depends. With them the look is cute and school-girlish. Without them, a much more grown up, young lady look. Either look is nice 🙂
Thank you for the kind wishes! 💕 You summed it up perfectly—socks say “schoolgirl,” no socks say “young lady.” It’s such a tender stage to witness. I think I want to stay in stage “schoolgirl” 🙂 and she is aiming for “young lady”.
I would say no socks, more a young lady. As long as no blisters. 🙂
Apsveicu!
Ilze
Apsveicu accepted with a smile—paldies! ☺️ You’re right, comfort is key. No blisters allowed on her big day! I think we’ll do a “blister test run” with her shoes this week—have you ever broken in shoes?
Congrats, Nelle! No socks… ❤️
Thank you, John! Simple and confident—no socks it is! ❤️ We’re leaning that way too. Did you attend any fun graduations lately?
I agree. No socks.
Thank you, Peggy! Another confident vote for no socks—it’s settled then! 😄 Do you remember wearing anything that made you feel extra special at that age?
Too long ago to remember what I wore.
I agree. I remember one dress! Blue, short, perfect fit (my mom made it!) and loved it 🙂
Both ways look cute, but I prefer no socks. She’s a young lady now, and the socks are for younger girls.
Thank you, Mary! I agree—she’s in that beautiful transition stage, and I love seeing her confidence grow. 🥰 Did you ever feel that shift with your children—when they suddenly seemed older overnight?
Yes! It’s happening again as my children are getting older. We were all out for dinner recently, and they had to pass a pair of glasses between them to read the menu. LOL.
Haha, that’s such a relatable moment! It’s amazing how those little everyday things suddenly feel so grown-up. Makes you realize how fast they’re growing—and how quickly the “little kid” days slip away. Thanks for sharing that sweet story! 😊