Why It’s Okay to Love Miley Cyrus (Really)

Miley Cyrus has gotten a lot of criticism in recent months for a variety of reasons. From her stage shows and social media posts to chat show appearances and magazine interviews, there’s nothing the 21-year-old can do that isn’t fodder for public opinion.

However, regardless of what you make of Miley, one thing’s for sure: she really likes herself regardless of what you think. If that’s not an empowering message, I don’t know what is. A new interview in this month’s Elle magazine (written by Rookie founder and HelloGiggles love Tavi Gevinson) reminded us of even more reasons why we love Miley- and why we don’t need to be ashamed of this love.

She’s really connected to her fans.

It’s always great when you’re a fan of an artist who seems to care about you as much as you do about them. Miley’s success is due in large part to the support of her faithful Smilers, and no one knows that better than Miley herself.

She’s actually really talented.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=93CZ6oFR8Q0?rel=0

Enough said.

She’s all about equality… period.

I still don’t think we’re there 100 percent. I mean, guy rappers grab their crotch all f**king day and have hos around them, but no one talks about it. But if I grab my crotch and I have hot model bitches around me, I’m degrading women? I’m a woman—I should be able to have girls around me! But I’m part of the evolution of that. I hope.

While Miley’s perspectives on feminism might sometimes seem a little misguided, they all come from a good place, and you have to admit she makes some great points about the double standard women in the industry are held to. Right on, Miley!

She loves staying in, just like us.

There’s nothing we love more than vegging out after a long week with some yummy snacks and terrible TV. We’re glad Miley feels the same.

She doesn’t care about the latest trends.

Personal style really is all about wearing what makes YOU feel comfortable and confident, not what fashion magazines tell us is the hip thing to wear. Miley’s approach to fashion is what it’s all about – and she looks great!

She wants to use her fame for good.

Plenty of celebrities are more concerned with money and fame itself than they are giving back to their community. While Miley may be young and make silly decisions, she also has a good head on her shoulders and wants to use her influence to make the world a better place. That’s definitely worth applauding.

She’s still figuring herself out, and that’s okay.

Look, we were all young once and we’ve all made our share of stupid decisions. Imagine going through the tumultuous experience of growing up in front of the whole world! It’s not something we’d wish on anyone, and Miley’s managing it with as much grace as possible.