'Daddy Dressed Me' highlights fashion-forward bond between father and daughter
If you thought daddy-daughter time couldn't get any cuter, there's a chance you haven't met Michael Gardner and his 9-year-old daughter Ava.
Michael, 36, from Philadelphia, continues to spread positivity by creating custom clothes for his daughter through his online platform "Daddy Dressed Me."
As a self-taught sewer, he began pursuing the creative outlet in 2014 as a way to get in some quality time with Ava.
"Sewing became the tool I used to teach Ava about confidence, self-love and to believe in her abilities," Michael told "GMA." "I sew the clothes and Ava models. We share our daddy-daughter bonding experience through creativity, positivity and joy."
With over 200 outfits ranging from stylish dresses and jumpsuits to tops and pants, Michael said Ava is very involved during the creative process -- picking fabrics, design ideas, photoshoot locations, styling and more.
"She is very opinionated and knows what she likes. I find it important to honor that and empower her through this journey," he said.
When discussing the importance of "Daddy Dressed Me," Michael reflects back on his own childhood and how he grew up without a father. "When I became a dad I wanted to inspire other men who grew up in similar circumstances that it is possible to still become a great father."
He continued, "I also believe it is so important for there to be imagery that shows Black men are engaged, loving and present with their children. There are far too many stereotypes about Black men and fatherhood. I share my experience to help change that narrative."
When coming up with unique designs for "Daddy Dressed Me," the duo finds inspiration from the streets of Philly, social media, television and retail stores. "When I have a vision, [an] idea, I seek fabrics that will embody an energy that I hope to portray," said Michael. "Most of my work is self-drafted; I use previously created pieces or Ava's measurements to create a silhouette and I just create."
Ava, who Michael says is intelligent, full of energy, funny and caring, loves to learn and enjoys being creative as well as modeling. She also has been inspired to continue fashion designing in the future and aspires to one day attend the Fashion Institute of Technology -- eventually designing her own collections.
Micahel and Ava have over 20,000 Instagram fans, and their "Daddy Dressed Me" platform continues to grow rapidly.
"Everyone is looking for a reason to smile and for something to feel good about. Ava and I have provided a bright light in a very challenging time," said Michael. "Through our smiles, laughter, fashions and dancing, we've made people feel good and inspired. I am beyond proud to spread positive energy and joy with our platform."
"I hope people feel inspired to create and fathers feel encouraged to be present with their children," he said. "The love, passion and dedication we put into everything that we do pays off when our following continuously supports, encourages and uplifts Ava and I in everything that we do."
"Our content is made to help people feel something and that feeling is different for each individual," Michael added. "I will continue to use our platform to share our experiences and uplift others."
