Treehouse Special: Unapologetically You
Captured by Mitchell Royel for Gospel Glamour Jr in the heart of the Fashion District, the energy is undeniable. We’re vibing to “Word Up” by Little Mix and “One of the Guys” by JESSIA, an atmosphere radiating with the essence of Katy Perry’s voice. It’s a celebration of individuality, a reminder that there’s beauty in bringing your own perspective, your own softness, or strength into the mix. Staying bold, staying vibrant, and most importantly, staying unapologetically yourself is what truly matters. Because at the end of the day, it’s not about fitting into a mold—it’s about owning your uniqueness and letting it shine brightly.
Finding Strength in Femininity and Authentic Self-Expression
We were on this family vacation kind of deal—me, my close guy friends, and, of course, her. She’s not just "a girl I know"; she’s special, someone I feel close to. The trip was supposed to be easy, lighthearted, full of our usual chaos and humor, but I could sense something was off with her. We’d all be gathered around, cracking inside jokes, teasing each other like we always do, and there she was, trying so hard to be part of it. Laughing maybe just a little too loud at jokes she probably didn’t even think were funny. Trying to talk the same way we do, which, I’ll admit, can be a lot. It wasn’t her, though. I could feel it.
Later, we ended up having this long, honest conversation back in the room. She broke down a little, and told me how much she wanted to fit into every part of my world, to relate to every aspect of my life—my humor, my bond with the guys, all of it. And, honestly? It was so sweet, so real. But it got me thinking.
There’s nothing wrong with being different, being “girly.” There’s nothing wrong with wanting to embody what some people might call the essence of femininity. Whether it’s loving pink, playing with dolls when you’re little, or dreaming about being the nurturer in the room—you don’t have to be “one of the guys” to matter or fit in. Sure, there’s something cool about the girls who can joke and wrestle with the boys, who feel comfortable in that space. But there’s also something so important about valuing who you actually are. Like, if you walk in on your boyfriend and his friends roughhousing, taking hits for fun, and you think, “Yeah, I don’t get it”—that’s okay. You don’t have to get it. There’s no rule that says you have to.
You’re allowed to hold your own space in the way that feels right to you. And I think that’s something we should celebrate more. Being one of the guys is fine if that’s who you are. But there’s something just as valuable—just as beautiful—about being someone who isn’t that, someone who brings their own perspective, their own softness or strength, into the mix. Because at the end of the day, it’s not about trying to be everything to everyone. It’s about being unapologetically you, which is more than enough.