International Women’s Day: The Women Who Inspire Us

Every year on March 8th, we celebrate International Women’s Day, a time to honor the strength, courage, and beauty of women everywhere. For me, this day is personal. As a Brazilian immigrant, my journey has been shaped by incredible women—especially my mother.

Again, I Have to Say: My Mom

I’ve mentioned her before, but I can’t talk about the women who inspire me without repeating her name. My mom was creative, caring, and always present. She gave my sister and me everything she could—not just in material things, but in love, support, and the belief that we could be anything we wanted. That belief shaped me and is a big part of why I do what I do today.

Women’s History: The Fights That Brought Us Here

Coco Chanel wearing palazzo pants - via CNN

While we celebrate the women around us today, we also remember those who came before us—women who fought so we could have the opportunities we do now.

Here are just a few moments in history that changed the world for women:

  • 1923 – Women were finally allowed to wear pants publicly without legal trouble.

The bloomer costume - Library of Congress

  • Dec. 1, 1955 – Rosa Parks refused to give up her bus seat, sparking the civil rights movement.

  • June 10, 1963 – The Equal Pay Act was signed, fighting against wage discrimination between men and women.

  • June 18, 1983 – Sally Ride became the first American woman in space, proving that women belong in every field.

via NASA

  • Jan. 4, 2007 – Nancy Pelosi became the first female Speaker of the House, breaking political barriers.

  • Jan. 20, 2021 – Kamala Harris became the first woman Vice President of the United States, proving that leadership has no gender.

A Victory That Means So Much to Me

As a Brazilian, one moment that filled my heart with pride was when Fernanda Montenegro (1999) and her daughter Fernanda Torres (2025) became the first Brazilian actresses nominated for an Oscar. Seeing women from my home country recognized on such a big stage was deeply meaningful. It’s a reminder that talent and determination have no borders—and that women from all backgrounds, including mine, deserve to be seen and celebrated.

To Every Woman: I See You

To every woman reading this: I see you. I see your effort and dreams and how you carry so much daily. I see how you keep going, even when it’s not easy.

You deserve to feel beautiful, strong, and seen—not just on International Women’s Day but every single day.

That’s why I do what I do. Because feeling good in your skin, in your clothes, in your presence—it’s not just about style. It’s about embracing the power of being yourself.

Let’s celebrate each other today and always. 💜

Happy International Women’s Day!

 

Ana Harris - Personal Stylist

Color Analysis - Wardrobe Styling

Studio in Fall River, MA - Serving clients from Rhode Island, Boston, and beyond.

@stylebyanaharris

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